Heritage Academy Sets Sights on Expanding into Seven Ranches

The Mesa-based Heritage Academy charter school system is considering the establishment of a new elementary school in Maricopa. The proposed site includes four undeveloped parcels near the intersection of Honeycutt and White and Parker Roads.

The planned school, which will cater to students from kindergarten through fifth grade, is projected to span 64,000 square feet and accommodate up to 750 students. Additionally, it is expected to feature a multipurpose athletic field, as outlined in a project narrative linked to a public records request.

Currently, Heritage Academy operates a campus a half-mile south, serving middle and high school students. While the school has yet to finalize any purchase agreements or submit site plans, inquiries have been made with Rodolfo Lopez, Director of Development Services, about the feasibility of the project.

Potential challenges are noted in the project’s narrative, highlighting the ongoing drainage study affecting the area. This could impose specific requirements on any future developments. The Seven Ranches area is increasingly appealing to developers, although a study conducted in 2021 identified flooding and drainage issues as significant concerns.

Existing plans in the vicinity include gated rental properties, single-family homes, and a commercial plaza featuring retail shops. Despite reaching out, neither Heritage Academy nor Lopez provided comments prior to publication.