The Home Builders Association’s Government Affairs Committee recently hosted an “Onsite Insight” event at Pierson Farms in West Jordan, bringing together members of the homebuilding community, McArthur Homes and West Jordan city leaders to discuss how strong relationships can help move successful housing projects forward. 

The event focused on Pierson Farms, a 52-lot single-family subdivision being developed by McArthur Homes. Attendees heard about the land acquisition process, the project’s design and entitlement work, the rezoning process, pricing strategy, accessory dwelling units and how the development aligns with West Jordan’s long-term vision for the area. The event also included a tour of the finished property. 

“We really felt like developing relationships with city officials is really critical to success in our industry,” said Tyler McArthur, who works in land acquisition at McArthur Homes. “This is a chance for the homebuilding community and the city side to come together and talk about what makes a successful project.” 

McArthur Homes President John Gaskin said the project worked well because the company approached the site with respect for West Jordan’s existing plans. 

“Mayor Burton and West Jordan City has been great with this project,” Gaskin said. “Part of that was that we didn’t come in here and try to change the city’s master plan and get some zoning that wasn’t allowed.” 

City Planner Larry Gardner said the City’s vision for the area was low-density, single-family housing, and McArthur Homes’ proposal fit well with that goal. 

“The city spends years working on the master plan and I like that McArthur Homes and John came in with respect to that,” Gardner said. “We really had a smooth process because the city was open in its communication and the developer was very willing to work with the city in this process.” 

The project also incorporated accessory dwelling units, which McArthur Homes leaders said provide more flexibility for buyers, including opportunities for rental income or multi-generational living. 

Mayor Dirk Burton said infill projects like Pierson Farms help keep neighborhoods vibrant by supporting schools, parks and existing infrastructure. 

“We are happy to see the growth and it is important,” Burton said. “We don’t want to become a ghost town. That’s not our desire.” 

Sales Director Jeff Macfarlane said the project has already seen strong interest, with 30 of the 52 homes sold. He pointed to the location as a major factor in the development’s success. 

“I think the number one fact is that it’s in a great location and it’s an infill location,” Macfarlane said. 

Through Pierson Farms, leaders from West Jordan, McArthur Homes and the HBA said the project serves as an example of how early communication, respect for city planning and collaboration between local government and builders can create successful outcomes for the community.