Trader Joe’s is expected to open later this year in Goodyear’s GSQ development, bringing one of the city’s most-requested retailers to a growing downtown district that also includes restaurants, civic spaces and office buildings.
Located near McDowell Road and Bullard Avenue, the 13,500-square-foot store is part of the next wave of development at GSQ, a more than 150-acre public-private project city leaders say is transforming a long-held vision into reality.
“For decades, the development of a vibrant downtown district in Goodyear was a long-held community aspiration,” said Mayor Joe Pizzillo. “Today, that vision is coming to life through GSQ, a dynamic and growing downtown that blends civic spaces, commerce, entertainment and community connection.”
Several new businesses have opened in the district, including Shake Shack, Over Easy and The Yard Milkshake Bar.
In recent weeks, officials announced that Firebirds Wood Fired Grill and Black Rock Coffee Bar will join the lineup in 2026.
Residents are also waiting for the Banner Health medical outpatient center under construction at GSQ. The facility is scheduled to open in fall 2025, expanding local access to healthcare services.
An AC Hotel by Marriott is also planned for the district, with city officials anticipating an opening by the end of 2026.
The addition of Trader Joe’s comes after years of requests from residents in annual retail surveys.
“When I moved to Goodyear in 2013, I quickly noticed that there wasn’t a Trader Joe’s for miles,” said Councilmember Benita Beckles. “Like many residents, I visited the grocer’s website and requested a store in Goodyear several times. Now, I am thrilled that they’ll be opening one in Goodyear’s downtown.”
Chris Warren, store captain for the future Goodyear location, said the store is a good fit for the surrounding area.
“We’re excited to bring our unique products and hire more local, friendly crew to serve as Goodyear’s neighborhood grocery store,” Warren said.
The GSQ project, led in partnership with Globe Corp., includes Goodyear City Hall, the Georgia T. Lord Library, a 2-acre public park, a Class A office building, and dozens of dining and retail options either completed or in progress.
It is one of several major West Valley civic centers under development as cities look to attract business, improve walkability and offer more amenities to residents.
Meanwhile, construction is underway nearby on Buc-ee’s, the 74,000-square-foot Texas-based travel center set to open in summer 2026. Located at the southeast corner of Interstate 10 and Bullard Avenue, it will be the company’s first location in Arizona.
Pizzillo said Buc-ee’s is expected to bring roughly 200 full-time jobs and generate tax revenue from out-of-town visitors that can support city services.
“That means they’re not cannibalizing our businesses, they’re just adding to our revenue that helps pay for police, fire, roads and streets,” he said.
Both the Trader Joe’s and Buc-ee’s developments reflect broader changes in Goodyear’s retail and civic planning strategies that began after the Great Recession, when the city shifted from plans for a traditional regional mall to a walkable, mixed-use district.
As the Trader Joe’s opening nears, city officials say more announcements are on the way.
“Goodyear couldn’t be more thrilled that Trader Joe’s has chosen to come to our great city,” said Pizzillo. “This really is a dream come true for so many of our residents who’ve been asking for this unique grocer for many, many years.”
More information about GSQ and upcoming openings is available at goodyearaz.gov.
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