Goodyear Civic Square closes 2025 with a wave of new openings

By Mary Goldmeer
Mail

Goodyear Civic Square continued to establish itself as a major economic center in the West Valley in 2025, adding a diverse lineup of restaurants, retailers, office users and institutional tenants as development activity accelerated across the district.

The mixed-use project, developed through a public-private partnership between the city of Goodyear and Globe Corp., saw more than a dozen businesses open during the year, with additional projects announced or under construction heading into 2026.

City leaders say the steady pace of openings shows the development is moving toward its goal of becoming a walkable urban center that supports both commerce and community life.

“GSQ is moving where I hoped it would,” Mayor Joe Pizzillo said. “We are seeing progress, continued interest from businesses, and development that reflects our vision. I’m proud of how GSQ is taking shape and excited about what’s ahead.”

Businesses that opened at GSQ in 2025

•  American Wealth Advisers at GEN 1, a financial planning and investment advisory firm serving individual and business clients.
•  Avila University, a private university offering graduate and professional education programs, expanding higher-education options in the West Valley.
•  Bacchus Wine Bar, a locally focused wine bar featuring curated wine selections and small plates.
•  Banner Health, a branch of the major nonprofit health care system providing outpatient and specialty medical services at the GSQ location.
•  BPR Companies at GEN 1, a real estate investment and development firm establishing offices within GSQ’s Class A office building.
•  Dave’s Hot Chicken, a fast-casual restaurant chain known for Nashville-style hot chicken.
•  Great American Title Agency at GEN 1, a title and escrow services firm supporting residential and commercial real estate transactions.
•  High Tide, a seafood-focused restaurant offering casual dining with a coastal-inspired menu.
•  Over Easy, a brunch restaurant popular for comfort food classics and extended morning hours.
•  Realty ONE Group at GEN 1, a national real estate brokerage providing residential and commercial real estate services.
•  Shake Shack, a national burger chain serving made-to-order burgers, fries and shakes.
•  Spaces at GEN 1, a flexible coworking and office space provider offering short- and long-term workspace solutions.
•  The Yard Milkshake Bar, a dessert spot known for specialty milkshakes and sweets.
•  Trader Joe’s, a specialty grocery retailer offering private-label foods, organic products and prepared meals.

Pizzillo said GSQ’s appeal to businesses comes from its intentional design and location.

“I see GSQ as successful because it was planned with purpose and created in a great location,” he said. “The mix of dining, shopping, living and gathering spaces keeps the area active and welcoming throughout the day. GSQ has steady foot traffic, a growing community and a strong partnership with the city of Goodyear, which makes the area attractive to business.”

Announced and coming soon

Several additional businesses announced plans to locate at GSQ but had not yet opened by the end of 2025:

• AC Hotel by Marriott
• Black Rock Coffee
• California Fish Grill
•  CAVA
•  Firebirds Wood Fired Grill
•  Fogo de Chão
•  Nordstrom Rack
•  Veterinary Emergency Group

Under construction

Two additional restaurants were actively under construction at GSQ as 2025 ends:

•  First Watch, a daytime restaurant focused on breakfast and lunch
•  Kura Sushi, a Japanese restaurant featuring conveyor-belt sushi service

As the year comes to a close, city officials say the focus remains on sustaining growth and supporting continued private investment.

“I’m grateful for our residents, businesses and city team who make Goodyear a strong and connected community,” Pizzillo said. “This next year, I’m excited to see key projects completed, more new businesses open, and continued investments that support our neighborhoods and create opportunity.”

James Goldmeer
Reporter | Goodyear & Litchfield Park

jgoldmeer@iniusa.org

Meet James
James Goldmeer joined Independent Newsmedia, Inc., USA, in July 2024, starting their career as a reporter in Goodyear and Litchfield Park.

Community: James grew up in the West Valley, calling Avondale home and going to school in Glendale and Peoria. Returning to the community after university, James plans to get involved in everything arts and culture, and civil rights.

Education: Northern Arizona University a bachelor's degree in Journalism, a certificate in Professional Communications, with a minor in English. 

Random Fact: James spent half a year as an intern for the Arizona House of Representatives communication team, working with legislators to inform the public through press releases and social media.  

Hobbies: James collects postcards and old books, reads memoirs and attends local jazz shows.