Phoenix Council Adopts Rio Salado Development Plan

The city approved a new development framework to guide future growth along a 20-mile stretch of the Rio Salado.

Updated on Oct. 26, 2026 in Remote Work

Isometric editorial illustration showing stylized urban architecture and desert landscape forms, representing a municipal development plan. — The Phoenix City Council has officially adopted the RIO PHX development plan, a 20-mile infrastructure framework for the Rio Salado corridor. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Phoenix city leaders officially adopted the RIO PHX development plan to direct future housing, commercial, and park investment. The initiative targets a 20-mile corridor across South Phoenix for comprehensive infrastructure growth.

Why it matters

The plan serves as a long-term roadmap to coordinate urban development and public space projects across the Rio Salado region. By establishing these guidelines now, city officials aim to shape the economic and social trajectory of South Phoenix over the coming decades.

The RIO PHX plan encompasses a 20-mile area along the Rio Salado and designates 4 specific catalyst sites for future investment. These sites will serve as the primary focus for city-led housing, commercial, and recreation development projects.

The players

Phoenix City Council

The Phoenix City Council is the governing body responsible for passing municipal ordinances and approving long-term urban planning initiatives for the city.

The details

The city identified four specific locations to serve as catalysts for growth, including mixed-use development at 7th Avenue and 24th Street. Additionally, the plan utilizes a site at Central Avenue already owned by the city and targets 16th Street for a potential recreation area.

Phoenix city leaders adopted the RIO PHX development plan on October 26, 2026.
Planned growth at the four catalyst sites is expected to occur over the next few decades.

Market Landscape

This decision follows the established framework of the Rio Salado development plan to prioritize South Phoenix for large-scale investment. By formally designating these catalyst sites, the city is signaling a strategic shift to compete for commercial and residential developers.

Residents and business owners in South Phoenix can expect long-term shifts in land use and development near the identified catalyst sites at 7th Avenue, Central Avenue, 16th Street, and 24th Street. These projects will likely influence future housing availability and local access to recreational space over the coming years.

The takeaway

The adoption of the RIO PHX plan establishes a clear trajectory for infrastructure investment in South Phoenix. Property owners and developers should monitor city announcements regarding the four catalyst sites to understand potential changes to their local area.