Waymo has made one of its largest real estate investments in Arizona to date, purchasing a sprawling former automotive proving grounds property in the northwest Valley for $220 million.
The acquisition includes approximately 5,458 acres near 211th Avenue and Dove Valley Road in the far northwestern area of Surprise, near the community of Wittmann. The site has a long history as a vehicle testing facility and is expected to play a role in Waymo’s continued growth as a leader in autonomous transportation.
Originally developed as a proving grounds for Chrysler, the property was later reportedly used by Apple during its autonomous vehicle research efforts. Its extensive testing infrastructure and remote location have made it one of Arizona’s most notable automotive development sites.
The purchase underscores Waymo’s deepening ties to the Phoenix metropolitan area, which has served as the company’s primary testing and deployment market for self-driving technology. The company has steadily expanded its autonomous ride-hailing operations across the Valley and continues to use Arizona as a key hub for innovation and commercialization.
Earlier this year, the City of Surprise approved the transfer of development agreement obligations associated with the property from its previous owner, Route 14 Investment Partners LLC, to Waymo. The move cleared the way for the transaction and any future development plans tied to the site.
While Waymo has not publicly detailed how it intends to use the property, the acquisition provides the company with a massive testing and development asset as competition in the autonomous vehicle industry continues to accelerate.
The deal highlights Arizona’s growing importance in the future of self-driving technology, with the state remaining one of the nation’s most active environments for autonomous vehicle testing, development and commercial deployment.
