Infill projects make sense in current economy

For years, people would purchase the largest home that money could buy. Because land was less expensive on the outskirts of the Southeast Valley and beyond, the desire for affordable mini-mansions fueled urban sprawl and created pockets of empty land in municipal centers. The recession has reversed the trend. Today, prospective homebuyers want amenities and the convenience that comes from living closer to town. To meet the demand, homebuilders are buying up those pockets of empty land, known as infill property, and distressed subdivisions, such as Stratland Estates at Higley and Germann roads in Gilbert. This new homebuying trend makes sense on several fronts. Homebuyers would be closer to the action. Chandler, Gilbert and Mesa have budding downtowns, entertainment districts, shopping malls and employment hubs, which homebuyers want to be near. The more activity that surrounds these areas, the better it is for businesses and sales-tax revenues that fund municipal services and amenities. It's a cycle more residents understand. Buyers also would be near municipal parks and have better access to infrastructure such as roads and freeways that were built when economic times were healthier. Property-tax collections are lower because of depressed home values, so municipalities are delaying capital projects, many of which serve growth on the fringes. Chandler reprioritized some of its projects to improve country roads on the city's southern edge and slightly increased its property-tax rate. But, even then, the funds only go so far.

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