Civano is a neighborhood in SE Tucson that was conceived in the last century as a model for a sustainable community and originally envisioned as “Tucson’s Solar Community.”
The grand opening of Civano was held April 16, 1999. At the core of the neighborhood is the one-acre neighborhood center with a landscaped plaza, constructed with a variety of alternative building materials that incorporate solar energy and water conservation systems.
The neighborhood also features a neighborhood center, tennis court, two swimming pools, a shaded playground for tots, a community garden, an expansive nursery, and over 50 local businesses - including a dance studio, optometrist, naturopathic doctor, hair salon, fitness studio, cafe, and more.
Athletic types will appreciate the connecting sidewalks that go on for miles, including some dirt paths that are off the beaten track. Fantasy Island, a mecca for mountain bikers, is also directly across the street.
The sense of community in Civano is palpable. The neighborhood even has its own website and mini newspaper that lists upcoming events and news. Both are a bit out of date so it appears that new leadership is needed to help be a catalyst for ongoing community-building.
Homes typically rent for between $1100 and $1800/month. If you're looking to buy in Civano, you can expect to find homes with 2-5 bedrooms, either one-story or two-story - lots of unique floorplans. Some homes even have adjacent guest homes for generational living or at-home office space. Expect to pay anywhere from $130,000-$400,000, depending on square feet of the home and the included amenities.
Homes in Civano range from being built in 1999 to being brand new. Pepper-Viner currently is the only new builder in the area. Homes in the Civano North Ridge start at $232,000.
Didi had this to say about Civano, "Love the shaded walking paths, green grass soccer field, skin and body fitness, Civano nursery, the trails webbing through through the houses...the list continues. Probably the coolest neighborhood to live right across the street from. It is magical!"