Surprise Human Service and Community Vitality Department Director Seth Dyson.

Courtesy city of Surprise

Surprise worked to start conversations and leverage partnerships across the region so the West Valley could show how projects like this are possible, not only here but across the country, to help meet the growing need for affordable housing.”

Seth Dyson | Surprise Human Serive and Community Vitality Department director

The city of Surprise recently joined with local partners for the groundbreaking of a new community designed to address the need for housing for low-income families.

This project is in collaboration with Native American Connections, Maricopa County, the cities of Avondale and Peoria, along with other partners.

“Surprise worked to start conversations and leverage partnerships across the region so the West Valley could show how projects like this are possible, not only here but across the country, to help meet the growing need for affordable housing,” said Seth Dyson, Human Service and Community Vitality Department Director.

The project near El Mirage and Bell roads is estimated to cost $28.5 million. Maricopa County is providing most of the funding, contributing more than $16 million through its HOME Investment Partnerships American Rescue Plan Program and American Rescue Plan Act funds. The city of Surprise is contributing a total of $779,157 from its HOME-ARP funds.

When completed in late 2026, the project named the Cross Winds at Three Star Pointe will bring 45 affordable three-bedroom rental units to the area providing immediate short-term housing solutions for those experiencing homelessness, as well as creating a pathway to more permanent homes. Of the total units, 32 of them will offer affordable housing benefitting low-income families with an annual household income at or below 60% of the Area Media Income.

The remaining 13 units will support families experiencing homelessness with short-term (six to 12 months) housing. This will provide individuals and families the opportunity to transition to permanent housing after the successful completion of a supportive service program.

Those staying in the community will have access to comprehensive supportive services, including no-cost job-readiness and financial planning classes for adults. These are in addition to other community amenities like energy-efficient features and a playground. The new townhome-style rentals are also located within walking distance of a park, grocery stores and a library.