Approximately 2,500 homes are anticipated for new master-planned community La Estancia In East Tucson. The Arizona Daily Star is reporting that developer Meritage Homes has swooped in and purchased 195 of the lots for $2.2 million.

Location seemed to be a major draw to the builder with Jeff Grobstein, regional manager for Meritage Homes, telling The Star they chose the community because of its “centralized and accessible location.” They’re so excited about the potential that excavation has already begun in order to have models ready for early next year.

Courtesy of Meritage Homes

Meritage will be the first homebuilder to take part in the new community. Of the lots they purchased, 115 will extend 45 by 110 feet while 80 will be 50 by 110 feet. Prices have yet to be revealed.

Located near Wilmot Road, north of frequently commuted I-10, the community will market itself to employees of Raytheon Missile Systems in South Tucson, Davis-Monthan Air Force Base in Southeast Tucson, and University of Arizona Tech Park, near the neighborhood of Sycamore Park Village.

Not only is location a big deal for those employed on that side of town, it’s also the first time in a long time that a master-planned community was started from scratch in Tucson city limits.

Developers Sunbelt Holdings, based out of Scottsdale, hopes to take the entire 565-acre site and turn it into a community with a pool, splash pad, picnic tables, and other amenities meant to entice young families.