Scottsdale, March 18, 2026
In Scottsdale, residents of the Kierland area are pushing back against a proposal by Host Hotels & Resorts to redevelop part of the Westin Kierland Golf Club into high-density housing. The plan aims to convert 72 acres of the golf club into nearly 800 luxury homes, significantly reducing the number of golf holes. Community concerns include the loss of green space, increased traffic, and environmental impact as development threatens the character of the area.
Scottsdale – Residents in the Kierland area are actively opposing a proposal to redevelop a nine-hole section of the Westin Kierland Golf Club into a high-density housing development. The plan, put forth by Host Hotels & Resorts, owners of the Westin Kierland Resort & Spa, aims to convert approximately 72 acres of the Mesquite Golf Club into nearly 800 luxury homes, reducing the overall golf club from 27 holes to 18.
Proposed Development Details
The planned development, known as Copper Residences, includes a mix of high-end, for-sale condominium residences and traditional single-family homes. The project is divided into two main sections: Development Unit 1, covering about 16.16 acres north of Greenway Parkway, is envisioned for multifamily-style condominium units that could reach up to four stories in height, with a density targeting 10 to 15 units per acre, potentially yielding around 180 units. Development Unit 2, spanning approximately 55.64 acres south of Greenway Parkway, is planned for two- and three-story attached or freestanding luxury homes, with densities ranging from 3.5 to 10 units per acre, potentially resulting in around 314 residential lots. The entire development is projected to include nearly 800 high-end homes. Future amenities for the Copper Residences are expected to feature resort-style swimming pools, clubhouses, community gathering areas, and pedestrian trails.
Community Opposition and Concerns
Local residents are voicing significant concerns regarding the proposal, primarily focusing on the potential loss of valuable green space, a projected increase in traffic congestion, and added strain on existing local infrastructure and schools. Many homeowners report having purchased their properties specifically for the views of the golf course and the surrounding open areas, expressing worry that their “lush green golf course” could be replaced by “concrete rooftops.” Additional concerns include the potential for increased accident rates and traffic volume in the area. Environmental impacts are also a major point of contention, with worries about stormwater runoff, the removal of trees, and the loss of habitat for native species, especially given that the Mesquite course holds Audubon certification. Residents emphasize that the golf course is considered the “heart of the community,” contributing significantly to its character and property values.
Developer’s Rationale and Project Status
Host Hotels & Resorts submitted the application for the Copper Residences to the City of Phoenix. The company states that the redevelopment is intended to reinvest in the Westin Kierland Resort & Spa, aiming to enhance its competitive standing, and to provide much-needed housing in an area that already possesses the necessary infrastructure. A key aspect of the proposal, according to the developer, is the projected reduction in water usage through the conversion of high-water-use turf on the golf course. Following community feedback received during neighborhood open houses in December 2025, the project team has refined the proposal, addressing concerns related to building height, buffering, traffic circulation, and site design. The proposal is currently undergoing review within Phoenix’s planning and zoning processes, with construction anticipated to begin in the second quarter of 2026. The Kierland Community Alliance, established in 2019 to safeguard community interests against development, is actively opposing this proposal and is engaged in fundraising efforts to secure independent reviews of the traffic and environmental impacts.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Westin Kierland golf course housing proposal?
The Westin Kierland golf course housing proposal involves Host Hotels & Resorts, owners of the Westin Kierland Resort & Spa, seeking to redevelop the Mesquite Golf Club, one of its three nine-hole courses, into a high-density housing development.
Where is the proposed development located?
The proposed development is located on approximately 72 acres of the Mesquite Golf Club at the Westin Kierland Resort & Spa, which is situated in Phoenix, west of Scottsdale Road and Greenway Parkway, bordering Scottsdale.
What types of homes are planned for the Copper Residences?
The Copper Residences project plans for a mix of high-end, for-sale condominium residences and traditional single-family homes.
What are residents’ main concerns about the proposal?
Residents are primarily concerned about the loss of green space, increased traffic congestion, strain on local infrastructure and schools, potential impacts on property values, and environmental issues such as stormwater runoff, tree removal, and loss of habitat for native species.
What is the developer’s reason for the proposal?
Host Hotels & Resorts states that the proposal aims to reinvest in the Westin Kierland Resort & Spa to enhance its competitive position, provide needed housing, and reduce water usage by converting high-water-use turf.
What is the current status of the proposal?
The proposal is currently working its way through Phoenix’s planning and zoning processes. The project team refined the proposal in early 2026 based on community feedback, and construction is anticipated to start in the second quarter of 2026.
Key Features of the Westin Kierland Golf Course Housing Proposal
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Project Name | Copper Residences |
| Owner/Developer | Host Hotels & Resorts (Owner of Westin Kierland Resort & Spa) |
| Location | Mesquite Golf Club, Westin Kierland Resort & Spa, Phoenix (bordering Scottsdale) |
| Acreage Affected | Approximately 72 acres (of the 27-hole Mesquite Golf Club) |
| Golf Course Change | From 27 holes to 18 holes |
| Housing Types | High-end, for-sale condominiums and traditional single-family homes |
| Estimated Units | Nearly 800 high-end homes (condos and single-family lots) |
| Building Heights | Up to four stories for condominiums, two- and three-story for detached homes |
| Anticipated Construction Start | Second quarter of 2026 |
| Developer’s Rationale | Resort reinvestment, housing demand, water usage reduction |
| Key Resident Concerns | Loss of green space, increased traffic, strain on infrastructure, environmental impact, loss of community character |
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