[el_avocado]

Zanjero project to include boutique hotel, retail, office space

Scott Wong
The Arizona Republic
May. 15, 2006

A new 20-story hotel with a high-end restaurant will be coming to Glendale, as developers unveil another piece of the retail and entertainment puzzle shaping up around Glendale Arena and Cardinals Stadium.

Nevada-based Marathon Commercial Development said Monday it plans to build an upscale urban village on a third of Glendale's 151-acre Zanjero project just off Loop 101.

Earlier this year, Marathon paid Zanjero's developer, Citation Land Co., more than $30 million for the parcel, located at the corner of Glendale and 91st avenues.
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The village, called the Districts at Zanjero, will mix housing, shops, restaurants, Class-A office space and a 20-story boutique hotel with a fine-dining establishment on the top floor.

Plans call for about a half-million square feet of retail and restaurant space, 200,000 square feet of office space, two- and three-story for-sale residential lofts above retail, and three mid-rise residential towers.

Construction is set to begin next year, with the first phase expected to be completed before the 2008 Super Bowl, which will be played at the new $455 million football stadium that February.

"Considering they are starting at the same time that Cardinals Stadium is being finished and two years after the arena opened, that's not bad if they can get it in before the Super Bowl," said Glendale Councilwoman Joyce Clark, whose district includes Zanjero and other nearby projects. "That will be a major feat, and they will be complemented for having done so."

The Districts project marks yet another economic victory for Glendale.

Right next door, Cabela's will be rolling out its 165,000-square-foot outdoors mega-store in August. Nearby Cardinals Stadium will be hosting its first game that month. And by late October, Westgate City Center, across the street from Zanjero, will be lighting up its flashy billboards for the opening of its first 500,000 square feet.

"Glendale is a fast-growing city that is turning into the entertainment mecca of the Phoenix Valley," Marathon President Barry Smith said in a prepared statement. "The Districts at Zanjero will provide the live-work-shop-dine-play atmosphere that the city needs and that retailers, visitors and homeowners alike will want to be a part of."

The Henderson, Nev., developer currently is working with Terrapin Properties, a Chicago company that specializes in building housing in mixed-use projects. Marathon also is negotiating with a boutique hotel developer.

Two other 100-room hotels, a Hampton Inn and Homewood Suites, are planned at Zanjero. And work is being done on a 312-room Renaissance Hotel next to the arena at Westgate.

About 1.5 million people live within a 30-minute drive of Zanjero and other neighboring projects, while about 300,000 employees work within 10 miles of the area, according to Marathon.

That's made development along the freeway corridor particularly lucrative.

"What Westgate and the surrounding developments have created is a focal point for the entire West Valley," said Jeffrey Hecht, a spokesman for the Ellman Cos., which is developing Westgate. "They will eventually become the city center for the entire West Valley."

[xymox]

Wow - great news - wonder how far this will be from the other hotel tower (is that 12 or 15 stories?). And with pent up demand for office space on the west side of town - how much longer before office towers show up? Wishful thinking, I know... :)

[el_avocado]

Wow - great news - wonder how far this will be from the other hotel tower (is that 12 or 15 stories?). And with pent up demand for office space on the west side of town - how much longer before office towers show up? Wishful thinking, I know... :)
It'll be about a half-mile from the Glendale Renaissance hotel @ Westgate, which is a 12-story hotel. Then there's that 16-story hotel going up at Avondale Blvd. and the I-10 in Avondale. I reckon more towers will follow. I love getting to drive by the Westgate area every day for work and watch the progress unfold. It'll be exciting once they start building the Glendale Waterfront, too.

[Vicelord John]

Mark my words; Glendale will emerge as the entertainment destination of the whole region.

[PHX31]

/\ BWAAAAHAHAHAHAA

Maybe if the "region" you are talking about only includes the west valley. Anything out there would be better than the lame bars/restaurants around the peoria sports complex.

[Blake]

How is Westgate progressing? I haven't been there since November.

[HooverDam]

^^^^ http://westgateaz.com/

That site has construction updates and a webcam for ya.

[oliveurban]

Glendale's own skyline will finally emerge :).

All great news. Now, maybe Glendale can begin pushing harder for some new forms of mass-transit to service this particular area. The fact that all of these mega-developments will be so heavily concentrated in one singular location, and none of it serviced by light-rail, or another similar form of transit, just seems like a sin to me.

But of course, this is nothing new to us.

[combusean]

Mark my words; Glendale will emerge as the entertainment destination of the whole region.

When I start seeing retail businesses that aren't chain stores, I might begin to entertain that idea. The area needs years and years, if not decades of organic growth before it can compete with the Phoenix/Scottsdale/Tempe square.

But with nothing but red tile roofs and strip malls for about 10+ miles in every direction, the area could surprise us with how quickly it emerges as something any of us Streetfolk* ever make a point to go to. There's, as the article says, 1.5 million people within a 30 minute drive that have nothing to do right now other than go to Tempe or Phoenix.

How is Westgate progressing? I haven't been there since November.

Westgate is months late--Glendale is mildly irked at Ellman for not finishing it on time (they sure miss their sales tax dollars), and there have been prior reports about how much of the area, eg, the renaissance, would even be open in time for Superbowl 2008.

I like the balance of this project altho I wish I had a number of DU going into it. It doesnt seem overbuilt on retail and includes a whole bunch of office.

But without seeing a site plan or other details, I'll toss in the clincher--one 22 story tower/mixed use district on 50ish acres sounds like suburban density.

It's like that Avondale hotel tower--you will see that once you compare what these developments provide against how big the chunk of land is, some of these "urban" developments aren't necessarily that urban. You might have the same enormous setbacks, oversized surface parking, hideous street frontage and very low overall densities. Height is really the only redeeming factor.

I think we should rename this thread to maybe West Valley Project News or something similar.

(* compare with Avenue People :D)

[Vicelord John]

When I start seeing retail businesses that aren't chain stores, I might begin to entertain that idea. The area needs years and years, if not decades of organic growth before it can compete with the Phoenix/Scottsdale/Tempe square.

What I said has nothing to do with chain stores or your idea of proper organic growth. I say entertainment destination because of several reasons. One being the amount of attractions (2 sports/concert venues, waterfront, movieplex, many restaurants/bars, large scale ampitheaters, and many other attributes which will draw both tourists and locals. I for one wouldn't mind going somewhere I can park the car and have dinner, watch a concert, have drinks, have a light night snack, and find a hotel room to sleep in all in one place. It will be by far the largest concentration of entertainment values. Tempe has bars and a lake, but no professional sports venues. Scottsdale has bars... and thats it. Downtown Phoenix has businesses, and Biltmore has shops and some bars. Really nobody has as much going as that area. Sure it may be sterile, but for the majority of population, sterile = "nice"

[combusean]

What I said has nothing to do with chain stores or your idea of proper organic growth.

My idea of proper organic growth doesn't entirely entail a Bohemian paradise of Mom and Pop's along Main St. Rather, I want to see people ON the street, but modern large scale developments, especially here, don't really do that.

The configuration of major developments across the Valley still encourage the driver's culture--driving there, easy parking, and milling about on private, pedestrian malls that turn their back onto the street and transit. No development connects--rather, you have to cross multilane thoroughfares, which people just aren't going to do unless they really want to, especially during summer rush hour.

Phoenix has been tackling this problem (haphazardly at times) in the Biltmore area as they develop a 3 mile long "pedestrian spine" that connects the west side of the 51 to the Esplanade/Fashion Park. As far as area planning strategies go, it's very unique for new development on this scale. Altho I'm impressed by the coordination and connectivity, but the entire concept leaves a disingenuous taste in my mouth. That's just my opinion, and it's largely where John and I differ on that whole sterilty thing.

It will be by far the largest concentration of entertainment values. Tempe has bars and a lake, but no professional sports venues. Downtown Phoenix has businesses, and Biltmore has shops and some bars.

I'd take the lake over professional sports venues, and I wish Tempe got the Cardinals stadium to begin with. But in its new home, that stadium was the catalyst for the entire area, and I am happy to see the end result that is Westgate/Zanjero there rather than what would have been more damn houses, even above my greedy desires for the City of Tempe. Retrospect is always nice as I've been jaded by that entire fiasco for four years.

On the topic of large scale sporting events, the Insight bowl would have never moved to Tempe from downtown Phoenix where nobody ever heard about it. I look forward to the emerging cross city rivalry and there's certainly room for both in the metro.

Really nobody has as much going as that area. Sure it may be sterile, but for the majority of population, sterile = "nice"

Ditto, mostly. There is certainly enough going on in Westgate to sustain it for generations, and I can't say that about a majority of large projects. Even a double economic downturn could throw off North Scottsdale in a matter of a decade or two--remember that new money can disappear just as quick.

As far as urban center vitality goes, people can be always counted on to do one of two things (if not both): drink and watch sports.

They've been the only things propping up downtown Phoenix for the last 15 years and downtown Tempe until the late 80's. In the case of Phoenix, they nailed the casket on the old downtown while fueling the fire for an urban renaissance unlike any other in city history.

Westgate can have this forever--and I say can--Tonopah, amongst others, might get ambitious in 2030, but I hope the Cardinals will be happy in Westgate forever. Even independent of winning games, that's how the greatest sports teams were all made--they never left home.

[Vicelord John]

you keep bringing up vibrancy "people ON streets" and "urban density" which leads me to believe you're not understanding my original point. That point is Glendale will emerge as the entertainment destination of the region. Never once did I say "most vibrant" or "densest" or "most exciting." Have a beer or two and relax a little. You're quick to argue before you fully understand what was said.

[combusean]

... but the entire concept leaves a disingenuous taste in my mouth. That's just my opinion, and it's largely where John and I differ on that whole sterilty thing.

Perhaps you should read my post before you flame me about whether I understand what you're talking about.

Have a beer or two and relax a little.

What makes you think I'm all worked up over this? Because I type some long post out? Guilty, as charged, I guess, but I certainly don't mind it--I love bullshitting about this sort of thing. Can you not tell already?

[kaneui]

With the two new sports venues and all the development happening around them in west Glendale, I'm surprised that MAG isn't proposing to run the Glendale light rail spur all the way out to Loop 101 near the Westgate/Zanjero projects.

It seems like a no-brainer to me--it would provide a fair number of locals with light rail transit to all the events that will be held there, and would certainly encourage more development density in the area, and promote it as the "urban core" of the West Valley.

[loftlovr]

combusean-
I always appreciate your feedback!
I agree largely with your desire for more dense, pedestrian friendly planned areas somewhere in our city...
I think you need to hijack your way into the city planning department yourself and aid in recreating/ enhancing our city!

[HooverDam]

Tempe has bars and a lake, but no professional sports venues.

Tempe does however have Sun Devil Stadium, the states largest stadium that houses perhaps its most popular team (Id say its a toss up between Suns and ASU football for most popular)- so its not like there is a lack of sports in downtown Tempe. Tempe also has the Palms hotel which very nice.

[oliveurban]

The Palms Hotel, eh?

[HooverDam]

http://www.missionpalms.com/

Yes the Tempe Mission Palms. I actually couldnt recall the full name of it when I was posting, I new palms was in there somewhere, so I abbreviated. Dont worry I wasnt confusing it w/ the hotel in Vegas

[oliveurban]

^ Oh, sorry. I knew what hotel you were talking about. I just didn't see why that was such a unique place to begin with (in comparison with everything else mentioned, at least).

[Carter]

Some more recent pics of Westgate:

http://www.blogarizona.com/blogarizonacom/files/WestgateAerialPhotos.pdf

[HooverDam]

^ Oh, sorry. I knew what hotel you were talking about. I just didn't see why that was such a unique place to begin with (in comparison with everything else mentioned, at least).

Ive never stayed there, being as I have a house in the Phx area, but from everyone I know whos stayed there, its very nice. John was making it sound like Tempe had NO hotels (nice or otherwise) so I was just mentioning it.

But anyway....back to the west valley....

[xymox]

Those pics of Westgate are really nice - I didn't realize a tower crane was up already! Everything seems to be coming along nicely - much further along than I last remember seeing it. From what you read in the Republic, you'd think it was a dead project...

[plinko]

..., and promote it as the "urban core" of the West Valley.

Only a slight contradiction in terms in that statement. :D

I'd feel alot better about things like Westgate if it was on the south side of Grand at like 59th or 67th. Instead it's Ray/I-10 with two stadiums, not exactly what I would consider urban.

Can you imagine the potential if Grand cut across the NE corner of this site with DT Glendale on the other side? Build a central train platform between them for commuter rail? At least that would be a start.

This place is going to be a traffic clusterf*ck.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v202/plinko923/2010Plan.jpg

[Don B.]

^ Yep. I still wish this were all happening in downtown Phoenix.

--don

[combusean]

Some more recent pics of Westgate:

http://www.blogarizona.com/blogarizonacom/files/WestgateAerialPhotos.pdf

Very nice. I like the stylings (like on page 4), and seeing a flurry of crane and construction activity that's not for a freeway is always nice, especially in Arizona. :tup:

[Blake]

Some more recent pics of Westgate:

http://www.blogarizona.com/blogarizonacom/files/WestgateAerialPhotos.pdf

Off-topic:

Did anybody notice the other blog post, "Say hello to the 50 year mortgage - not just for the first time buyer!"? :no:

Isn't the purpose of a mortgage to make sure you don't have payments into your 70's?

[xymox]

Yeah - but who pays off their mortgage anymore? (not that this makes it right, just a statement of where we are today) With home prices and a bunch of retirees who have lots of bank in their 401ks, they can easily afford to continue their mortgage payments. Or take equity from the home they raised their children in and put it into a smaller, more upscale home.

And this will only get worse over time. Not sure I know of many people who stay in their home for much more than 10 years. (younger people, that is...)

Besides - a banks job is to make sure they're making money off of you somehow. ;)

[Carter]

A few more details about The Districts at Zanjero:

Districts at Zanjero set to break ground

Frank Morris
staff writer

With the Westgate development, Cardinals Stadium, and now the Districts at Zanjero, the West Valley’s skyline is taking shape.

Nevada-based Marathon Commercial Development announced earlier this month that it plans on breaking ground on the Districts at Zanjero lifestyle center next year.

The group said it’s working diligently to open its first phase in time for the 2008 Super Bowl.

The 51-acre mixed-use development, at 91st and Glendale avenues, will include 500,000 square feet of retail and restaurant space; 200,000 square feet of office space; and a 20-story hotel.

In addition, two- and three-story residential lofts above retail will be part of the site, and in the final phase, eight- to 10-story residential condominium towers are expected to pop up.

The residences, which will feature a Mediterranean flare and spacious balconies, will be available for purchase only.

All of the buildings at the Districts at Zanjero are planned to be environmentally friendly, ensuring resource and cost efficiency.

Diane Smith, marketing director for Marathon Commercial Development, said she’s working on luring national tenants not currently in Arizona to the project.

She expects retail options to be “moderate-upper in terms of the price point,” while restaurant options will range from fine-dining to family friendly.

Smith also said the height of the hotel shouldn’t be a problem because “we’re already approved for 250 feet of height, so that zoning’s already done.”

Smith said Marathon is in negotiations with “a world-renowned hotel group that operates in 80 countries.”

While she wouldn’t disclose names, Smith said Marathon hopes to make an announcement in 60 days.

The Districts at Zanjero will be built directly adjacent to outdoor outfitter Cabela’s, which will open in August.

“I think it would complement the Cabela’s store very well because of all the restaurants we’re offering,” she said.

“Many of the Cabela’s shoppers come from as far as 300 miles and they spend the night, and they will be seeking more entertainment, more restaurants, and more shopping in the area,” Smith said.

The Districts at Zanjero is part of the larger Zanjero development. Marathon Commercial paid $30 million to Zanjero developer Citation Land Co. for the Districts parcel earlier this year.

“There will be literally over 20 million people attracted to this area annually. I can’t imagine a better place to build this development,” Smith said.

Glendale spokeswoman Julie Frisoni declined comment on the development, saying Marathon Commercial Development had yet to provide anything official on the development.

Smith said, “We haven’t made any type of press release with the city of Glendale because we haven’t had anything specific to announce (in terms of tenants or hotels).”

But Smith went on to say that when the project was announced during the International Council of Shopping Centers convention in Las Vegas, there was strong interest and numerous proposals from various prospective tenants, restaurants and hotels.

Bialosky and Partners LLC has been hired to design the Districts at Zanjero. The architectural firm also designed Crocker Park in Westlake, Ohio.

The Districts at Zanjero is expected to reflect many of the characteristics Crocker Park possesses, including a similar mix of tenants.


Frank Morris can be reached by e-mail at fmorris@westvalleyview.com.

Link: http://westvalleyview.com/main.asp?SectionID=13&SubSectionID=8&ArticleID=22119&TM=84251.22

[Azndragon837]

^Wow, a 20-story, 250 feet hotel....very nice. Looks like Glendale is finally growing up...although a bit west of its Downtown.

-Andrew

[xymox]

It will be very interesting to watch this area develop over the next 10 years of so. Entertainment focused now, but I have a feeling that there's more to come in the shape of office towers. I think this development shows how Phoenix will turn out - a collection of dispersed polycentric downtown areas. I'd like to see more grow up as well.

My general observation is - why are all of our high-rise districts near our airports? Downtown Phx, Downtown Tempe, and now this area. The only area that isn't off the end of any runway is the Biltmore area, and then you have NIMBYs there keeping the height limits artifically low. Even the new high-rise area project on the Paradaise Ridge area will be subject to height restrictions from Scottsdale Airport more than likely...

[Carter]

There is now a website up for The Districts at Zanjero:

http://www.districtsatzanjero.com/theProject.aspx

[oliveurban]

I'm thinking this thread should be renamed the West Valley Development Thread. Or, something along those lines, since it's already got a running start on the area's development news ...

[el_avocado]

Thunderbird to become live/work school
'Changing dynamic' spurs plan

Scott Wong
The Arizona Republic
Jun. 30, 2006

The Thunderbird business school will take the first step today to transform its Glendale campus into an education-based urban village to meet the growing needs of its 1,000 students, faculty and staff members.

Preliminary plans call for shrinking the campus' educational core to about 40 acres and ringing it with a 175-room hotel, hundreds of live/work units, upscale apartments, office space, stores and restaurants.

Officials today will request that the city amend its General Plan to allow for the new uses, said John Berry, a land-use attorney representing the internationally ranked business school.

In about three weeks, the school at Greenway Road and 59th Avenue will request that the property be rezoned.

Construction could begin on vacant parcels at the 150-acre campus as early as next year. Officials at Thunderbird, the Garvin School of International Management, could not say Thursday when the project would be completed.

The changes are being proposed in response to a demographic shift at the school, Chief Operating Officer Tim Propp said.

The university's more than 600 full-time students hail from more than 60 countries. The school's leadership courses, consortiums and other non-degree programs are attracting a growing number of foreign executives. And the school is seeing more students who are married and have children.

"We've got a changing dynamic," Propp said.

Because of that, school officials want to partner with private developers to create places on campus for full-time and visiting students to work, shop, eat and sleep.

Executive apartments could be leased on a long- or short-term basis. For-sale units would provide residents with an upstairs living space and a downstairs study or office.

Some of the housing units could be rented or owned by employees at the nearby Banner Thunderbird Medical Center, which is bulking up its staff.

The project would be built in several phases. First, vacant land along the eastern and southern edges of the property would be developed. When new apartments and for-sale units were built out, the school would redevelop existing student housing complexes, a 65-room hotel and other older buildings on the northwestern corner of the site.

Pedestrian and bicycle paths would be created to better link housing, shops and other spaces with the school's center.

Councilman Steve Frate, whose Sahuaro District includes Thunderbird, said Glendale would work in concert with the school to help realize what he characterized as a "quality infill project."

"It is a priority; it is a project that has a lot of merit to it," Frate said. "I will do whatever I can to help them, and the city will, too."

[el_avocado]

Thunderbird seeks input on urban village
School to use visits, fliers, open houses

Scott Wong and Erin Zlomek
The Arizona Republic
Jun. 30, 2006

With plans under way to transform the Thunderbird business school's campus into an urban village, school officials will now focus on gathering feedback from students, nearby residents and other community members.

That effort will include going door to door to speak with neighbors, mailing out fliers and hosting on-campus open houses to gather input.

"We've been a member of the neighborhood for 60 years," Thunderbird spokeswoman Carol Sunnucks said. "We want to make sure anything we do moving forward is something in line with what the community wants and what is best for the community, not just what's best for school."

To collect public comments, Thunderbird, the Garvin School of International Management, has hired Technical Solutions, a Phoenix firm specializing in community outreach.

The school's proposal involves circling the 40-acre campus core with a 175-room hotel, hundreds of live/work units, upscale apartments, offices, stores and restaurants.

The graduate school asked Friday that the city amend its General Plan to allow for the new land uses. Later this month, the school, at Greenway Road and 59th Avenue, will ask that the property be rezoned.

In the past, officials have batted down rumors that they planned to abandon the Glendale campus for a site in Scottsdale or other parts of the Valley.

Glendale Mayor Elaine Scruggs said Friday that Thunderbird's planning efforts demonstrate its commitment to remain in the city.

"This is an indication that they have made a decision to keep with the history, tradition and the city of Glendale," she said. "We are happy that Thunderbird has decided to stay on campus and reutilize it to fit the needs of today's students."

Students and recent alumni said the proposed project would bring the school more positive exposure.

"Our options here are a little bit limited in terms of food and the hours (of operation) and the diversity of what is offered," said Warren Donian, who graduated in May from Thunderbird's MBA program. "If they're going to bring in some nice restaurants and some other developments to spruce things up a bit, I think that's a needed change for the campus."

The prospect of more on-campus housing options scored points with first-year student Daniel Feferbaum. He said some students find the school's traditional dorm-style housing inconvenient and opt for more-accommodating apartment complexes off campus.

"For me, the only problem on campus is that you need to share the restroom with another person," Feferbaum said. "And I don't like sharing a room."

Feferbaum, a student from Brazil, said the live/work combination especially appealed to him.

"Because you are in contact with the school community, professors, students, there would be a lot of opportunities to develop projects together," he said.

[xymox]

So, I guess this is our West Valley thread eh? ;)

Question - while at Banner Thunderbird Hospital last week (kiddo #2 arrived!) I noticed that they are building a new 'tower' there. Seems to be twice the height of the existing 'towers' (which are 4 stories), but was hard to tell from the rendering. Anyone know just how tall this will be? Starting digging around on the City of Glendale site, but didn't find anything.

[oliveurban]

... while at Banner Thunderbird Hospital last week (kiddo #2 arrived!) ...


^ Your kiddo #2?

Big congratulations guy! Boy or girl?

:cheers:

[xymox]

Thx!

Daughter #2 arrived on June 27th. My other daughter is just over 2 years old. I figure I have about 10 - 12 years to enjoy the 'relative calm' until the teen years set in... :)

[loftlovr]

http://www.bizjournals.com/phoenix/stories/2006/07/03/daily31.html

Cardinals Stadium slated for 2009 March Madness action
The Business Journal of Phoenix - 2:36 PM MST Thursday by Diane Arthur The Business Journal

A big-time money event is coming to the Arizona Cardinals' new stadium in Glendale, state officials are saying, as a bit of March Madness is headed this way.

The Business Journal has learned that in March 2009 the new stadium will host the NCAA Men's College Basketball Regional Tournament.

"We like to believe that it is a precursor to hosting a men's Final Four in 2012," Ted Ferris, president and chief executive of the Arizona Sports Authority told the Phoenix Business Journal Wednesday. "That's the first year that's available, as the NCAA has awarded the Men's Final Four all the way out to 2011."

In terms of hotel stays, "this is very similar to a Super Bowl, where they (teams) put in a four night minimum on a hotel stay at hotels designated for teams and alumni," added Ferris.

Four teams will come here for the event and their fans will need to book hotel rooms too.

And starting in 2009, the NCAA will go to a center-field configuration. "Instead of pushing the court to one end of the stadium, where you seat 40,000 to 50,000 people, this will place the court in the middle of the stadium with floor chairs around it and with the permanent seats in the stadium, you're able to sit up to 80,000 people," said Ferris.

Ferris said this event could carry a Super Bowl-level economic impact of $300 million to $400 million.

Also, US Airways Center in Phoenix will host the NCAA Men's College Basketball Regionals on March 27-29, 2008.

[oliveurban]

Improved Grand Avenue is reopening
Underpass to ease traffic at city center

Louie Villalobos
The Arizona Republic
Jul. 7, 2006

A Thursday morning ribbon-cutting ceremony made it official. Grand Avenue is once again open for business in Glendale.

The $26 million project to install an overpass and trim Grand Avenue to four fast-moving lanes has been completed. Officials at the ceremony said that starting Monday, motorists making their way through Glendale can expect a smoother commute with fewer traffic lights.

Specifically, the 59th Avenue and Glendale Avenue intersection, which had been crossed by Grand Avenue, is now an overpass. That eliminated the traffic lights on Grand at that intersection.

Glendale Mayor Elaine Scruggs said the project will also make driving on Grand safer and more environmentally friendly. Before the improvements, Scruggs said, the six-lane road was known for constant stop-and-go traffic that flooded the air with exhaust fumes.

"Grand Avenue had become an air-quality nightmare," she said. "All the intersections had wait times greater than twice the length of any other signals in Maricopa County."

A look on a regional map reveals Grand Avenue is the only major roadway that connects the Northwest Valley to downtown Phoenix. In the process, it cuts through five West Valley cities or communities.

That makes it one of the most important roadways in a region that is outpacing the rest of the Valley in residential growth, according to recently released U.S. census figures.

Improvements like the Glendale project are trying to upgrade Grand Avenue to an expressway with limited traffic signals.

"All that translates to more mobility," Glendale Transportation Director Jamsheed Mehta said. "People live in one city and work in another one. You can't expect them to travel long distances on streets with signal lights."

So Thursday's ribbon-cutting had an importance that goes far beyond ceremony, officials said. It marks the first of several planned improvements for the road as it travels farther west.

There are plans to widen Grand between 83rd and 99th avenues, then again from 99th Avenue to the Loop 303 in separate projects. Those are scheduled to happen through 2009.

In Glendale, Grand Avenue had the capacity to move 30,000 vehicles a day before the renovations. With them in place, it will handle up to 60,000, Mehta said.

If the renovations attract the amount of motorists Mehta believes they will, that capacity could be reached soon.

If cities and the Arizona Department of Transportation fail to give commuters the attention, Mehta said, residential roads will continue to see cut-though traffic. He said a motorist driving from Surprise to Phoenix can take only so many delays related to traffic lights.

"Some of them have been on the roads for many miles and have discovered a short cut through a residential area," he said.

[oliveurban]

Goodyear cuts list of potential schools
Rebekah Sanders
The Arizona Republic
Jul. 15, 2006

Efforts to bring a private university to Goodyear are down to a list of five.

The southwest Valley city initiated the recruitment process months ago and has finally narrowed the pool of contenders from nine to five. Sealing a deal could benefit countless students, who have few higher-education options in the fast-growing area.

"We're going to live, work and play, and now we're going to educate in Goodyear," City Councilwoman Georgia Lord said. "That's a formula for sustainability."

All five schools offer accredited bachelor's programs, athletics, federal financial aid and a reputation for supporting the community through volunteer work, said Kelly Dalton, who manages the university project for Goodyear.

Three offer graduate programs, and three are Catholic schools.

The largest candidate is University of the Incarnate Word, based in San Antonio. It has about 5,400 undergraduate and graduate students, with extension campuses in China and Mexico.

The oldest one, Burlington, Vt.-based Champlain College, was founded in 1878.

The presidents of Alma College of Alma, Mich., and Notre Dame College of South Euclid, Ohio, as well as Incarnate Word's provost, have visited Goodyear. They toured the city and met with developers, business leaders and city officials to discuss how their campuses would fit in.

Presidents from the remaining two, Champlain College and the University of St. Francis in Joliet, Ill., hope to visit before summer ends.

Vice Mayor Frank Cavalier said a higher-education school will put Goodyear on the map.

Mayor James Cavanaugh said the decision to recruit private universities is not just uncommon, it is extraordinary, noting the universities had never been approached in this way.

The Chronicle of Higher Education this week published an article about Goodyear's university search and noted that officials in Lake Havasu City, in western Arizona, have talked with Northern Arizona University about opening a branch there.

The next step: a six- to eight-week market study Goodyear has commissioned to gauge the demand for a small, liberal arts college in Arizona, and figure out tuition rates and educational programs.

[HX_Guy]

258-unit luxury townhouse/condo project planned

Maura J. Halpern
The Arizona Republic
Jul. 14, 2006 12:00 AM


A Las Vegas-based real estate development company has announced plans to build a stylish townhome and condominium community near the Westgate City Center in Glendale.

Diversified Real Estate Group also has a resort-style condominium complex under construction in Surprise.

Called 9920, the luxury townhouse/condominium project at 99th Avenue and Camelback Road, will offer an urban lifestyle near the Valley's newest entertainment district.

The community will feature 22 mansion-style buildings, a three-story mid-rise and a feature-packed clubhouse.

"9920 will fit in very well with the feel of the area," said Jimmy Foster, president of Blue Tipping Group, the sales and marketing company for Diversified Real Estate Group. "This is where the 'in crowd' will live."

It will include more than 20,000 square feet of retail space below the residences. A coffee shop, dry cleaner and market are planned.

"We don't want residents to have to go too far for daily staples," Foster said.

Prices for the 261-unit community will range from $155,000 to $329,000.

While 9920 isn't scheduled to open until early 2008, those who register on an interest list will receive information about an exclusive presale in September.

"People will be able to get a little farther away from the congestion but still have access to the entertainment, shopping and sports," Foster said.

In Surprise, the Las Vegas-based developer has already brought Park Place Condominiums to life.

The resort-style condominium community is between Grand Avenue and Reems Road just north of Mountain View Boulevard.

Park Place will feature concierge services, guarded gate, fitness studios, a business center and other amenities.

"When we put together Park Place, we wanted to build a community that stood out from the others in Surprise," Foster said. "There's been a demand for this kind of lifestyle for a while."

The community has experienced brisk sales, with 52 of the 258 Tuscan-style residences remaining. Prices start at $200,000.

Aside from a handful of planned projects, Park Place is among the first resort-style condo communities in Surprise, Foster said.

"We got out there ahead of the curve," he said. "It's really exciting, given Surprise's future."

Construction on Park Place is about 85 percent completed and residents will start to move in by October.

Last year, Martha Gessel and her husband, Steve, were among the first to buy a condo at Park Place.

The couple sought to downsize from their three-bedroom home in Glendale's Arrowhead Ranch neighborhood, where they have lived for almost 20 years.

"I like the idea of simplifying my life," Martha Gessel said. "It's very freeing."

While the transition from their home to a one-bedroom condo will take some getting used to, the Gessels look forward to the low maintenance and plethora of amenities.

"It's almost like having a Scottsdale condo out here in the West Valley," Martha said. "In many ways, it will be like a vacation."

[HooverDam]

Thats good news about a school possibly coming to Goodyear, its a joke in a metro area of this size to have 1 university. It seems like what they are discussing is just an extension campus, but perhaps it can someday grow into a full fledged campus. I went to school in St Louis where they have at least 5 universities (mostly smaller schools) and I hope the Phoenix area can one day match that number.

[shrek05]

^If they separated all of ASU's campuses into separate schools or if you count them that way we kind of do have a number of universities in Phoenix. I would like to see a good private university land ground in Phoenix...

On another note, Cabela's is opening, are you going?

Huge crowd expected for Cabela's opening
The Business Journal of Phoenix - 9:30 AM MST Tuesday

Cabela's is getting ready to open its 160,000-square-foot outdoor sporting goods store in Glendale Friday, and Glendale traffic crews are anticipating big crowds.

Cabela's visitors need to be aware of some minor construction projects surrounding the store, they caution. There are minor traffic restrictions on Glendale Avenue between 75th and 89th avenues and on Camelback Road between 73rd and 83rd avenues.

Parking will be available on Cabela's site, as well as the Westgate City Center lot directly north of Glendale Arena.

Lots are accessible from Camelback Road, Glendale Avenue and Northern Avenue exits off of Loop 101.

Motorists can follow traffic signs for directions and Glendale Police will be directing traffic to help establish a steady flow.

Visitors are encouraged to call the state traffic information line at 511 for updated information.

This is the first Cabela's to open in Arizona.

For more: www.cabelas.com.

[DowntownDweller]

This would have been a better loft-conversion.

http://www.metropolisdg.com/Pages/Sugarbeet.htm

[el_avocado]

Thats good news about a school possibly coming to Goodyear, its a joke in a metro area of this size to have 1 university.


Well, there's Thunderbird the Garvin School of International Management in Glendale. There's also Midwestern University in Glendale. Arizona State University at the West Campus on the Glendale/Phoenix border practically operates as its own independent university. And there's also Grand Canyon University in west Phoenix. So, there are several universities here. ASU just happens to be the only public one, and is also the largest.

[el_avocado]

This would have been a better loft-conversion.

http://www.metropolisdg.com/Pages/Sugarbeet.htm

Yeah, I like that building a lot.

[el_avocado]

258-unit luxury townhouse/condo project planned

A Las Vegas-based real estate development company has announced plans to build a stylish townhome and condominium community near the Westgate City Center in Glendale.

Called 9920, the luxury townhouse/condominium project at 99th Avenue and Camelback Road, will offer an urban lifestyle near the Valley's newest entertainment district.

The community will feature 22 mansion-style buildings, a three-story mid-rise and a feature-packed clubhouse.


According to this (http://westvalleyview.com/main.asp?Search=1&ArticleID=22544&SectionID=2&SubSectionID=&S=1) article in the West Valley View, those condos will feature "Frank Lloyd Wright-inspired architecture."

Interesting.

[el_avocado]

So, I guess this is our West Valley thread eh? ;)

Question - while at Banner Thunderbird Hospital last week (kiddo #2 arrived!) I noticed that they are building a new 'tower' there. Seems to be twice the height of the existing 'towers' (which are 4 stories), but was hard to tell from the rendering. Anyone know just how tall this will be? Starting digging around on the City of Glendale site, but didn't find anything.

Here's a press release (http://bannerhealth.com/NR/rdonlyres/64794496-1AC1-4514-A45E-975E6DE923CD/22846/BTMC2bExpansion2bAnnouncement.pdf) I found on it.

[el_avocado]

Has anyone heard anything on the Glendale Waterfront project? The city was supposed to officially announce plans for it this summer, but thus far, nothing.

Here's a couple articles on it that have previously been posted:

- Glendale Waterfront in the Works (http://azsuperbowl.com/news_detail.aspx?id=79&year=)

- Glendale to Announce Waterfront Plans (http://www.westvalleyview.com/main.asp?Search=1&ArticleID=21899&SectionID=13&SubSectionID=8&S=1)

[el_avocado]

Avondale getting gateway it’s always envisioned

Darryl Henning
assistant managing editor

Avondale Boulevard south of Interstate 10 is giving promise of becoming the gateway to Avondale that city officials envisioned when they approved moving the municipal civic center complex to that roadway.
Already under construction on the southeast corner of I-10 and Avondale Boulevard are two Hilton brand hotels — a 124-room Garden Inn and a 122-room Homewood Suites. They’re expected to open in late fall this year or early 2007.

Across the street, on the west side of Avondale Boulevard south of I-10, Avalon Commercial Corp. plans to develop The Summit at Avondale, featuring a four- to five-star, 16-story, 250-room resort hotel complete with a water theme park, spa, gourmet restaurant and 10,000 square feet of high-end retail; 180,000 square feet of office space in two buildings; 20,000-square-foot upscale retail center; and a 115-room Cambria Suites hotel.

And just south of The Summit, Byrd Enterprises hopes to break ground this summer on the first phase of the CityPointe project — two six-story hotels, three office buildings and a number of sit-down restaurants.

“Is Avondale Boulevard becoming a gateway? Absolutely,” Avondale Economic Development Director Jeff Fairman said.

“As you come off the freeway and into the more commercial area, there will be two real entrance monuments,” Fairman continued, identifying the two Hilton hotels going up and The Summit development. “Hotels, offices, shops and restaurants.”

Plans for the CityPointe project are with the Planning Department now, he said.

“It has the promise of being a very quality development,” Fairman said, adding that all of the projects, when completed, will give Avondale “a sense of place.”

There are other projects in the works for which paperwork hasn’t been submitted to the city yet, Fairman said.

“Sean O’Brien, owner of the very popular Carlos O’Brien’s restaurant chain, has plans for a signature restaurant and other sit-down restaurants, offices and shops on his property,” he said, which is on the east side of Avondale Boulevard south of where the Hilton hotels are going up.

South of there, next to the Avondale Civic Center on Avondale Boulevard south of Van Buren Street, is the Avondale Corporate Center, a 30,000-square-foot office building in which Phoenix International Raceway has its corporate office.

“Plans for the second of three buildings are with the Planning & Zoning for review,” Fairman said.

‘On the right track’
While the Avondale City Council hasn’t said anything directly to city staff about its satisfaction with the way economic development is going in the city, from what it has said, “I believe we’re on the right track,” Fairman said. “Every conversation we do have shows the council is very supportive of what we’re doing.”

Fairman also is leading the charge for the city’s updating of its economic development plan, which will be brought to the City Council for adoption later this month. Avondale residents have been encouraged to participate in the process, including providing Fairman with input on a five-year plan of action.

That plan will focus on business investment and retention efforts to enhance jobs/housing balance, promote fiscal health and provide a high-quality business environment. Seven areas will be emphasized:


Economic development

Workforce and education

Transportation

Sites and buildings

Utilities and infrastructure

Quality of life

Community image
“The Economic Development Plan creates the foundation upon which other specific plans can be based — including a specific plan for Avondale Boulevard and Old Town Avondale,” Mayor Marie Lopez Rogers said. “These are two very different areas of the community, but both play a very important role in Avondale’s future. The Economic Development Plan also serves as a roadmap in the development of new employment, tourism and shopping amenities necessary for a sustainable, vibrant community.”

While his Economic Development Department may be in the spotlight these days, Fairman shares the credit.

“Every day that goes by, I see that it’s about the team we have right now — from the council, to our department, to the planning department,” he said.

[el_avocado]

Goodyear City Center clears TAC
Committee concerned with pedestrian areas, building height

Sara Bisker
staff writer

An EKG of the Goodyear City Center plan would show a flat line caused by more than a year of inactivity. But a small — and nonetheless present — heartbeat was heard July 6 as plans pushed forward.

The city’s Technical Advisory Committee reviewed and approved the final draft of the area master plan that has been a work in progress since 1988.

“Doggone it. I’ve got three years left in this office and I don’t know how long God’s going to let me live — I want to see a building built,” said Georgia Lord, councilwoman and committee chairwoman.

Goodyear held a public meeting in December 2004 for residents to give feedback on three proposed designs for the center. Each concept held the same basic format except for the road patterns.

The City Center will be built two miles south of Interstate 10 on 200 acres surrounding Estrella Parkway and Yuma Road.

Goodyear Boulevard, an inner road, will serve as a pedestrian-friendly, two-lane Main Street loop intersected by Yuma Road and Estrella Parkway. The boulevard also will circle around the outside of the Main Street loop to attract higher amounts of traffic.

The land is owned by three entities: Goodyear has 40 acres, SunMP owns 140 acres and the Wood family owns 20 acres.

Each quadrant is characterized by a design theme, said Leslie Dornfeld, consultant for HDR, a Nebraska-based architecture and engineering firm.

The northwest quadrant will house civic, retail, restaurant and community space under the theme “sun and shade,” Dornfeld said. It is envisioned as the “heart of the City Center.”

A library will be built within that sector along with other cultural uses such as a performing arts theater, she said. The city administrative buildings will locate there as well.

Hotels, entertainment and offices will create the makeup of the northeast district. The U.S. Post Office already exists in that area. Design will be consistent with a “wind and breeze” theme.

The southeast district will function as a business park because of its proximity to Phoenix Goodyear Airport and Goodyear Boulevard Southeast. It will be used to preserve views of the Estrella Mountains and will depict a “rock and vegetation” sequence.

The final quadrant in the southeast corner of the City Center will be primarily residential and showcase a “water” theme.

A ‘compromised’ City Center
Several concessions and compromises have been made on the 16-year living document, Lord said.

In spring 2005, she said, “This is very much a citizen-driven project. We want to make sure that every last thing that goes into that City Center is something the public wants.”

But even those on the technical advisory committee were unaware of some of the decisions made for the final plan.

A change in the plan that threw committee members off course was the allowance of 150-foot buildings within the Main Street loop, said Kristie Birdsell, committee member. The previous consensus was that buildings would be no more than five stories tall. A seven-story high building is roughly 150 feet tall.

“I remember distinctly at the [public meeting] it was a huge thing about the building height, and we were completely ignored,” she said. “I don’t think the community has been involved in some things that I’ve seen here. I don’t feel, as a committee member, I’ve had partaken in a lot of these decisions and the things being presented to us.”

After a building clears three stories high, it will be scaled back in a pyramid formation, thereby creating the illusion of a shorter building, City Manager Stephen Cleveland said. The road, sidewalk and landscape clearance in front of the buildings will help to make them appear smaller, he added.

Going up was the only way the City Center would be able to contend with its growing population, Lord noted.

“Let me explain something to you. You all wondered why this thing has taken so long,” she said. “We had a scope of work. During all of those meetings, that scope of work became bigger and bigger and bigger, which meant more time for the consultant, which added more money to the city to give to the consultant to do that work. That is partially the reason it took so long.

“On the height, I was just as surprised as you when it evolved. It was a process that took place between the consultants, landowners and the staff. We are going to be a city of 400,000, and this is our City Center and we only have that patch of property. The only way you can meet those requirements is you have to go up.”

Pedestrian safety issue
Another point of contention for committee members was availability of safe areas for pedestrians traveling between the quadrants at the Estrella Parkway-Yuma Road intersection.

Although speeds will be lowered in the area and diagonal parking put in place to slow traffic, committee members voiced concern that visitors would rather drive than walk to neighboring quadrants.

A pedestrian-activated signal is planned for the area, Dornfeld said, but a “scramble” or “hot button” also could be installed in the future.

“At this point we should only be hoping to have a bunch of people backed up at that intersection,” Dornfeld said. “We looked at putting bridge crossings in here as well and frankly, it’s just cost prohibitive.”

If pedestrian volume is heavy enough, other crossing solutions could be considered, she added.

Pedestrian volume and building height are issues that will evolve with the City Center as it grows, Cleveland said. The issue at hand is to move the planning forward.

“The City Council desires to move forward with this under the pain of public scrutiny of, ‘When are we ever going to build something?’ A piece of that is, we need a guidance document,” he said. “It’s like everything else. We’re flying an airplane and we change the engines along the way. We’re going to go from the Wright brothers to supersonic in quick order but we have to change those engines while we fly. We’re waiting with bated breath for an opportunity.”

The final draft was approved and will be reviewed by the Goodyear Planning and Zoning Commission on July 19. The public meeting is at 7 p.m. at the Goodyear Justice Facility, 986 S. Litchfield Road in Goodyear.

[el_avocado]

A development of a different color
1st phase of Westgate center well on its way to completion

Frank Morris
staff writer

Look to the east while driving along Loop 101 and you'll see it: Westgate City Center, the 6.5 million-square-foot entertainment complex being developed by the Ellman Cos.

The first phase, which will consist of more than 500,000 square feet of retail, restaurant and loft office spaces, is nearing completion. More than 75 percent complete, Phase I is expected to open to the public in October.

The Ellman Cos. anticipate the project, at 95th and Glendale avenues, will attract nearly 22 million visitors annually - a number greater than the entire population of Mexico City's metropolitan area.

After facing a few years of delays, "we're moving quickly," said Jeffrey Hecht, director of public affairs for the Ellman Cos.

Phase I is about 70 percent leased out, and construction workers are on the site "from the first sunlight until about 2 p.m." each day, Hecht said.

The Ellman Cos. hope to have as much of Phase I leased out and completed this fall to cater to the thousands of football fans heading to Cardinals Stadium, Hecht said.

"The goal and the desire of the city was to create a full-service sports, family and entertainment area," Glendale spokeswoman Julie Frisoni said. "The development around the area is extremely important because it adds all those extra amenities where people want to live, work and play."

Adding new tenants

While construction carries on, Ellman Cos. continues to attract new tenants to the site.

On July 19, the developer announced that Garduno's Margarita Factory and Gordon Biersch Brewery Restaurant will set up shop at Westgate. It will mark the third Valley location for Garduno's, which has restaurants in Scottsdale and Chandler. The restaurant serves more than 350 kinds of margaritas.

"We feel [Westgate] is a unique combination of restaurant, retail and play area," said John Johnston, co-owner of the Arizona Garduno's. "We wanted to reach out and service our customers in the West Valley. We have a great deal of customers from there who come to our other locations."

The Gordon Biersch eatery will be the first structure to be constructed by the Ellman Cos. outside of Phase I, and be only the second Gordon Biersch location in the Phoenix area - the other is in Tempe.

Both Garduno's and Gordon Biersch will be built on pad sites next to Westgate's first phase.

More tenants will be announced in the coming weeks, Hecht said.

Something for everyone

When food lovers, shop-a-holics, sports fans and movie buffs head to Westgate this fall, they can expect their needs to be fulfilled, Hecht said.

"I don't think there's anybody from 2 to 82 that isn't going to find something at Westgate," he said.

A 4,000-seat, 20-screen AMC Theater will anchor the north end of Phase I. At 80,000 square feet, it's projected to be the largest movie theater in the state.

The AMC Theater will feature traditional stadium-style seating in addition to rooms filled with directors' chairs that can be reserved for private screenings, Hecht said.

The theater initially was slated to be a Loews Cineplex until AMC Entertainment Inc. merged with Loews Cineplex Entertainment Corp. in January.

In addition to movies, Westgate guests will have a plethora of eateries from which to choose.

Yard House, Tahitian Noni Cafe, Johnny Rockets, Coffee Plantation and Cold Stone Creamery will open in Phase I, along with three restaurants from Raving Brands Inc.: Moe's Southwest Grill, Mama Fu's Asian House and Doc Green's Gourmet Salads.

The only retail stores officially announced for the first phase of Westgate are Coronado Tobacco Co. and Qwest Solutions Center. The Ellman Cos. is working with other retail tenants right now, but the developer's policy is to wait until paperwork is finalized before naming them, Hecht said.

Phase II, which won't begin construction until the first part of next year, already has at least one retail tenant lined up: Barnes & Noble, which will be housed in a 20,000-square-foot single-tenant building.

'No beige here'

Westgate guests might question whether they're in Arizona, Hecht said. "We wanted something different."

Visitors will find themselves engulfed in vibrant hues of yellow, blue, orange and green.

"There's no beige here," Hecht said, calling the project's design and color scheme "Arizona deco."

"It's where Arizona meets South Beach," he said.

Additionally, Phase I will feature some 30 billboards, many of which will be electronic or animated and will reach dimensions as high as 100 feet or as wide as 80 feet.

"This is Times Square," Hecht said of Westgate's events plaza, where 20 of the 30 media signs will be displayed.

There also will be a 350-foot-long Bellagio-like fountain in the events plaza, which will host water shows set to music.

A two-minute walk to the north will allow visitors to take a rest at the project's fountain park.

Westgate City Center also has a number of other projects popping up.

The Quarter at Westgate's and Alexan Westgate's 422 townhouse and apartment units being developed by Trammel Crow Residential will provide a place for people to live as early as February of next year.

"What makes us so unique is the location - the lifestyle that it provides - and the product that we're delivering," said Theresa Perkovich, sales director at The Quarter. "Our floor plans are open, functional, and urban in design." A 12-story, 320-room Renaissance Hotel, being developed by John Q. Hammons Hotel Inc., also is making progress. Steel beams for the first few floors of the luxury hotel and convention center already have been erected.

The Renaissance Hotel is expected to be ready to accommodate visitors by August or September 2007, Frisoni said. It will be a much-needed amenity to the area, as Glendale will host the Super Bowl in 2008.

"Three and a half years ago this was a cotton field, and a year and a half from now, they're going to play the Super Bowl," Hecht said.



Westgate tenants
The following is a list of officially announced restaurant and retail tenants that have committed to setting up establishments at Westgate City Center:


Phase I

AMC Westgate 20

Coffee Plantation

Cold Stone Creamery

Coronado Tobacco Co.

Doc Green's Gourmet Salads

Johnny Rockets

Mama Fu's Asian House

Moe's Southwest Grill

Qwest Solutions Center

Tahitian Noni Cafe

Yard House


Pads

Gordon Biersch Brewery Restaurant

Garduno's Margarita Factory


Phase II

Barnes & Noble


(Visit the article on the Web, at westvalleyview.com (http://westvalleyview.com/main.asp?SectionID=13&SubSectionID=8&ArticleID=22771&TM=2140.795))

[HX_Guy]

Very cool...I'm excited about that place opening up but I hope it won't turn into another AMC 30 or Desert Ridge where middle school kids clog up the place.

Definately looking forward to the AMC 30 which from other articles I've read, will have reserved seating as well as VIP seating and a cafe inside the theatre...something a little bit more upscale.

I think the Westgate location would be a great spot for another Sapporo Teppan Yaki...seems like it would it in well, but it might not be to the standards of the restaurant since their Scottsdale one seems very upscale.

[Vicelord John]

why cant the westside get some different restaurants instead of more chain bullshit.

[HX_Guy]

Same with retail...a Barnes and Noble is at every single one of these developments as are all the other American Eagle and Hollister stores.

It's kind of a shame...there isn't a real big reason for someone that doesn't live somewhat close to travel when they can go to the one nearest to their house...since they have the same stores and restaurants.

[Vicelord John]

Same with retail...a Barnes and Noble is at every single one of these developments as are all the other American Eagle and Hollister stores.

It's kind of a shame...there isn't a real big reason for someone that doesn't live somewhat close to travel when they can go to the one nearest to their house...since they have the same stores and restaurants.
agreed, thats why I love living in a mixed, established area. I get all that cool stuff.

[shrek05]

Rather un-unique but at least theres going to be plenty of development. I guess they will appeal to the common visitor that goes to that area...

[el_avocado]

Rather un-unique but at least theres going to be plenty of development. I guess they will appeal to the common visitor that goes to that area...

True. Sorta like how a lot of the tenants at the Biltmore and Esplanade are rather un-unique, but appeal to the common visitor that goes to that area, as well.

[CANUC]

http://phoenix.bizjournals.com/phoenix/stories/2006/08/07/story7.html?i=52139&b=1154923200^1326545

Article in the Business Journal relating to the styling of Westgate.

[CANUC]

http://www.azcentral.com/community/swvalley/articles/0805swv-long05Z5.html

This seems like good news for the future job base in the West Valley.

[shrek05]

True. Sorta like how a lot of the tenants at the Biltmore and Esplanade are rather un-unique, but appeal to the common visitor that goes to that area, as well.
I wouldn't say Biltmore is un-uniqque. There are many unique restaurants in the Biltmore area that are fantastic and stores whose only location in arizona is there. I would have liked to see Westgate adopt a more Kierland appeal with locally owned boutiques, local restaurants, etc.

[Carter]

More recent pics of Westgate and surrounding development.

http://www.sheacommercial.com/uploads/properties/AZ-Westgate-Aerials.pdf

[CodyW]

Nevermind.

[oliveurban]

More recent pics of Westgate and surrounding development.

http://www.sheacommercial.com/uploads/properties/AZ-Westgate-Aerials.pdf


Coming along.

[CANUC]

Awesome, this is quickly becoming a catalyst for even more development from Zanjero to some half dozen business parks along the 101 south to the I-10. The aerial photos are a bit misleading and the lack of reference points doesn’t do justice to the actual scale of the development area. Just gauge that the Cardinals stadium is as large as Chase field, now imagine the coverage area if this were downtown.

[oliveurban]

Goodyear officially lands Cleveland Indians for spring training:

http://www.azcentral.com/arizonarepublic/local/articles/0927baseball0928.html

[HooverDam]

^Glad to see the Indians back in town. Now if the Cactus League can land the Stl Cardinals and the LA Dodgers (both teams that I think are a more natural fit in the Cactus League), I'd be ecstatic.

[el_avocado]

Upscale chocolate, wine lounge coming to Westgate City Center

Frank Morris
staff writer

Chocolate and wine: Two of the finest things in life are coming to Glendale when Westgate City Center, at 95th and Glendale avenues, opens in mid-November.

Sweet O Wine and Chocolate Lounge (the O stands for "origine," French for "origin") will offer a full line of handmade, exclusive chocolate candies and truffles, pure chocolate fondues offered in dark, white and milk chocolate, a full line of pastries, a large appetizer menu and grilled panini sandwiches.

The upscale wine bar and chocolate lounge will also sell a line of single-origin chocolate bars from Venezuela, Peru, Madagascar, Tanzania and other exotic locales.

Though many people might not think to pair wine with chocolate, the two actually make an excellent combination, Executive Manager Jeanette Dubreil said.

"The region, the origin, of wine plays into the flavor of the wine, just like the origin of chocolate plays into the flavor of chocolate. Really, when you think about it, the two have a lot of similarities," she said.

"What we'll do is we'll find a wine that will be paired with the chocolates. For instance, mango truffles can be paired well with a white wine," Jeanette said.

And the wine selection at Sweet O will be one of a kind, Lounge Manager John Ferra said.

"You'll be able to come to our store and get wines you won't be able to find anywhere else. We want to make sure our wines aren't ones usually put out in stores," he said.

Though finding the right wines for the shop "has been a lot of hard work," Jeanette said, "It's been fun."

Exclusive wines won't be the only drink offerings at Sweet O. "We'll have chocolate drinks - hot ones for the winter and cold ones for the summer," said Pierrick Dubriel, Jeanette's husband and general manager of Sweet O.

Originally from France, Pierrick trained as a chef in Paris, and has worked in a number of fine dining establishments in France, as well as in the United States.

He's also been the regional sales manager of the gourmet chocolate company Barry Callebaut for the past four years.

A sweet deal

Sweet O is Pierrick's concept. "I'm going to use some of my knowledge to bring to the shop," he said.

This is the couple's first business endeavor, making Westgate the store's premier location.

"The concept is tremendous, and I think people in the West Valley are definitely deserving of this," said Jeffrey Hecht, spokesman for the Ellman Cos., which is developing Westgate.

The 2,000-square-foot shop will seat about 65 people indoors, and an additional 60 individuals on the wrap-around patio, which looks out onto Westgate's Fountain Park.

Guests will be able to sit down and enjoy one of Sweet O's many dishes, such as the Duck Confit Tartine: shredded duck confit on toasted French country bread, topped with truffle oil and duck prociutto, served with mixed baby greens.

Or the Smoked Seafood Plate: a variety of smoked fish, including Scottish salmon, peppered tuna, blue marlin and trout fillets, served with toasted blinis and herbed crème fraiche.

No butter, oil or vegetable spread is used in the making of Sweet O's food selections. Rather, expect cocoa butter. "It's just another use of chocolate, and you'll never notice it," Jeanette said.

The lounge will also feature a small retail area with a variety of wines, chocolates and gift baskets available for purchase.

The price range of Sweet O's goods will vary, Jeanette said. And while mostly high-end, there will be some "very reasonably priced" items as well.

"Upscale? Yes. But it's going to be fun and casual. We want to provide a nice ambiance," Ferra said.

"But we're not going to have buffalo wings at all," Jeanette added.

For information on Sweet O Wine and Chocolate Lounge, visit www.sweetolounge.com.


Courtesy of the View (http://westvalleyview.com/main.asp?SectionID=13&SubSectionID=8&ArticleID=23528&TM=1618.218).

[CodyW]

Chocolate drinks? That could be nice... If the drinks aren't overpriced. But "very reasonably priced" could mean anything.

[vwwolfe]

Does anyone have the official date that Westgate is supposed to open?

[oliveurban]

Glendale Arena nears deal of its own on naming rights
Carrie Watters
The Arizona Republic
Oct. 12, 2006

Could Glendale's two most prominent sporting venues get renamed within a month of each other?

Phoenix Coyotes President Doug Moss says the hockey team may be just a couple of weeks away from securing a naming rights deal for Glendale Arena.

Valley residents are still adjusting to the Sept. 26 announcement that Cardinals Stadium, across the street from the arena, is likely to become University of Phoenix Stadium.

Unlike the football stadium, named within two months of its August opening, the hockey arena opened three years ago. A naming-rights deal was partially hampered by a dispute between players and owners that led to an NHL lockout that erased an entire season.

"We're down to negotiating with a single partner," Moss said.

He stopped short of giving details on whether the naming rights would go to a Valley business or how lucrative it might be for the team.

"No hints," Moss said. "Let's see what we do."

[HooverDam]

University of Phoenix Stadium is such an awful name. I wish they'd name it after the parent company, the Apollo Group. "Apollo Stadium" doesn't sound band, actually it sounds pretty sweat, but I guess most people don't know that name in association w/ the school.

[oliveurban]

Jobing.com close to naming-rights deal for Glendale Arena
Terry Lefton and Don Muret
The Business Journal of Phoenix
October 19, 2006

Job recruitment site Jobing.com soon will be announced as the naming-rights partner for Glendale Arena, home of the Phoenix Coyotes.

A source said the deal would be for 10 years at $2.5 million to $3 million annually.

Coyotes President and Chief Operating Officer Doug Moss confirmed that the team was negotiating with one company, but he would not identify the business and said a deal had not been completed as of this morning. "We are either going to have a deal or not in the next few days," Moss said. "These things can drag on. If we don't have a deal, we will move on."

But a source said the naming-rights deal was expected to be officially announced next week. One working name for the building is said to be Jobing.com Arena, although Jobing.com Center also is a possibility.

Jobing.com will get signage, tickets, suites and use of the building for meetings and job fairs, which the company has held there before.

The company announced a multi-year sponsorship with the Coyotes earlier this month. Under that deal, Jobing.com was to receive signage and other opportunities within the arena.

Sports marketing company the Bonham Group of Colorado has had the naming-rights sales assignment for Glendale Arena since the building opened in 2003.

The deal follows on the heels of the $155 million, 20-year agreement signed by University of Phoenix, whose name will grace the nearby Arizona Cardinals stadium.

Calls to Jobing.com seeking comment were not returned.

The Phoenix-based company hosts job fairs, human resources Web sites, JobingTV and Go Jobing magazine. In addition to the Phoenix and Tucson areas, the company serves parts of California, Colorado, Florida, Nevada, New Mexico and Texas.

[HooverDam]

Wow, another lame name. "Chase Field" is now the only pro stadium in town that has an ok name that rolls off the tongue. The rest of them sound freakin' awful.

[DracoCaifan]

Omg This Can't Be Happening...

[wilycoyote24]

Who cares what the names are. You can call them Glendale Arena/Stadium and people will know what you mean. What matters is that this means more revenue for the teams.

[PC2001]

On the Westgate website there are residence lofts but I can't find any info on them. There's the Quarter townhomes but I don't see the residence lofts advertised. Does anyone know where I could get info? Thanks.

[loftlovr]

Thy're not for sale yet.
I believe Ellman is developing these.
Right now there are the Quarter townhomes and the Zanjero condos.

[PC2001]

Thanks Loftlovr. I'd appreciate any updates on this matter. I'm definitely considering buying one. I wanted to get a townhome but they didnt want investors and would like primary residents only.




Thy're not for sale yet.
I believe Ellman is developing these.
Right now there are the Quarter townhomes and the Zanjero condos.

[JI5]

I'm sorry - but I don't understand why anyone would want to live there? Really good MALL access perhaps? Then again, I don't understand why anyone would want to live in Glendale, yet some do.

[HX_Guy]

Why not? The Westgate development actually looks to be pretty interesting and I'm waiting for it to open on Nov. 17th.

Living in a more urban place like downtown is nice as well...but they still don't have anything as "happening" as this probably will be. Also, not everyone works in the downtown area. I'd love to live in a high rise downtown, but then I'd have to drive to the suburbs everyday for business...that would be a bit dumb.

[combusean]

Westgate is the only thing that's at all urban there--the other developments (Cabela's) are as suburban as you can get--massive parking lots, etc. A place in downtown Phoenix or Tempe might in theory offer less from the start, but those cities' carrying capacity for connected across-the-board urban living/retail/etc options are substantially greater than you'll ever find in Westgate.

[PC2001]

I'm sorry - but I don't understand why anyone would want to live there? Really good MALL access perhaps? Then again, I don't understand why anyone would want to live in Glendale, yet some do.

I live in Glendale cause I work here. It takes me 5 minutes to get to work and that's a whole lot of time saved per day.

I don't see the Westgate as just malls. They have the stadium, theater and arena and lots of new resturants are coming up. I think they'll even have a convention center too. All that in a small area. It would really be great to have a 2nd home there but I'll likely just use it for my guests so I won't have to entertain them at my house. Of course if it's going to cost $1000/sq ft, then I'll have to think twice before buying one. :)

What Glendale really needs is to develop their airport. I bet if they do that, there'd be more people wanting to live here and home values would go higher.

[CANUC]

OK, just my two cents. At the risk of sounding like someone who was recently banned I don’t understand this subtle hostility people seem to have for the west valley and while not defending sprawl or pointing any fingers it seems to be something expressed predominately by people who live in the east valley. I never understood this perceived rivalry until I choose to move the west valley. The reaction from coworkers who inquired as to where I lived would be one of “Oh, you live in the avenues!?” as though I had been infected by some terminal plague.

I’ve never put much stock into others opinions so their perceptions are just that, their perceptions. But it did get me thinking, what’s the hang up? Unfortunately the conclusion that I come up with is one of cultural and class phobias, an elitist mentality by people who are not part of the elite. Again, I’m just speaking from my own personal experience but I’ve seen it time and time again, the young account manager who drove a leased, two year old, 3 series BMW, living in a rented apartment in south Scottsdale, stretched to his limit. The receptionist, who needed three room mates to rent a home in Scottsdale, yet drove to work in a ten year old car which she always parked at the farthest section of the parking garage in order to ‘hide’ her car. The middle-aged network security manager who bought a town home in Tempe, only to let it slip once that nearly 40% of the homes in his community were rentals and a good percentage of those were Section 8 housing. The odd thing about these individuals was their ‘nose in the air’ attitude towards the west valley. This façade that their zip codes proved their success all the while hiding the little details beneath the surface, a sort of self delusion to their own lack of success.

I also believe this desire to be part of ‘upper-crust’ is what has perpetually hurt our downtown. The idea that being associated with an area that was gritty signified some class distinction. For me the ironic thing about this whole rat race is that now it seems things may be coming full circle. It seems the truly wealthy will be the few who initially will be able to afford to live in those shiny new high rises. Maybe threw their own actions they will make it trendy or fashionable for the Jones’ to finally come back to the core. But then again maybe I'm just full of it.

[Vicelord John]

CANUC, I'm assuming I'm the person you are referring to... that doesn't sound like anything I'd say, hehe.

[CANUC]

John V. no I was talking about someone else.

[Vicelord John]

who else got banned? I know Don just up and left, right?

[Daltnpapi4u]

Im assuming he is talking about El Avocado

[loftlovr]

Canuc-
I think the West siiide has some great pockets.
-Some pricey pockets too!
There are certain areas that are great areas to live!

I think most make the mistake of lumping all of the West side into one hat.
I think areas like the Maryvale area give the whole West side a bad name.

I love the Westgate area. The prices are nowhere near $1,000 a sq ft yet.
-More like $300 actually!

There is a lot of ignorance with mainstream Scottsdale mentality.
I have a habit of poking fun at Mesa but I do it in a light-hearted way.

I think most of the people in this particular forum simply want fellow Phoenecians to embrace the idea of moving back to the inner city/ core. (Urban movement)

Just cause we're from Phoenix doesn't mean we should all support sprawl! (Even if our father's generation of polititians did)
There is something fun and cachet about high-rise living. I just went to a design center with a buddy who I sold a condo to at Century Plaza and he cannot quit talking about how cool his life is gonna be there!
We don't all have to have the same exact tastes to appreciate eachothers views.

I for one notice the good areas of Glendale. -And I like your observations of those who ridicule the West side! Typical!

[PC2001]

I think it was J15's comment that annoyed some people. I think he's entitled to say whatever. I'm sure he'll checkout Westgate too when it's done. LOL

I'm hoping this forum is a good source of info though, rather than just mere negative comments about why people chose their lifestyle and location.

[oliveurban]

Let's never forget downtown Glendale--the West Valley's true urban gem. My continued hope is that with all of the new attention being placed on the West Valley (and the city of Glendale in particular), more and more of it will eventually be directed there ...

[Vicelord John]

Let's never forget downtown Glendale--the West Valley's true urban gem. My continued hope is that with all of the new attention being placed on the West Valley (and the city of Glendale in particular), more and more of it will eventually be directed there ...
it is a neat place, unfortunately, if you're under 90 you won't have any fun.

[HooverDam]

I think the bias against the West side is a very long routed one, its comes from a lot of different things. For years and years, most of the quality development happened in the east valley. Downtown Scottsdale and Tempe are in the east valley, as well as the Camelback corridor. People who grew up in the valley probably spent most of their evenings doing activities on the east side of town. Furthermore, I'd make the claim that the east valley is more natural beautiful. When I picture the west valley, I just think of flatness. In the east valley you have Squaw Peak, Papago Peaks, the Tempe Buttes, the town lake (though thats not natural), and of course the icon of Phoenix, Camelback mountain.

I think Westgate is fine, its nice quasi urban living. Its going to have a lot of chain type places in it, but if you work in the west valley, its probably the best place to live. Downtown Glendale is extremely charming, but its more of a retirement area.

[loftlovr]

I like getting everyones opinions in this forum.
Downtown Glendale had some loft projects proposed last year- I am anxious to see if they end up happening. It is pretty neat driving through "Old Town Glendale"...

I obviously choose to live in Tempe/ Downtown Phx or Scottsdale.
-But I am excited about Westgate- I think 10 yrs from now we will all be wishing we purchased in The Quarter or the Ellman Lofts!

[xymox]

I think that until recently, there were no comparable 'Scottsdale-esque' developments on the west side. Now that's changed, since Scottsdale, Chandler, etc are out of land. Look at north Peoria - lots of custom builds (12k sq ft +), open desert, etc. Same in parts of Avondale, Goodyear, Buckeye, etc. I personally advise friends to build over here (particularly in north Peoria) versus building in the SE valley...

I love the west side personally, that's why I live here. Lot of good stuff going on, the center of which being the Westgate area. There's a ton of good paying jobs coming as well to the Deer Valley airpark area. More will fill in around Westgate over time. This side of town will develop its urban cores as well - with Glendale and Peoria already with big projects to revitalize their downtowns. And don't forget the 19 story zoning for I-17 and Carefree Hwy. :)

[xymox]

Furthermore, I'd make the claim that the east valley is more natural beautiful. When I picture the west valley, I just think of flatness. In the east valley you have Squaw Peak, Papago Peaks, the Tempe Buttes, the town lake (though thats not natural), and of course the icon of Phoenix, Camelback mountain.

You need to picture the 'new' West Valley. I've always thought that the Estrella Mtns and White Tanks were the 'most impressive' mountain ranges that the valley has. A lot of the West Valley is flat, but the newer stuff is moving north into the foothills - and the area around Lake Pleasant is just incredible - a lot more picturesque than even some areas in Scottsdale.

A lot of retirees - yes, but East Mesa and Carefree/N. Scottsdale have more than their share of retirees too. (I've heard Carefree referred to as Sun City for people with money) Where I'm at in West Wing Mtn, its primarily families with 2.5 kids. :) Then there are the football players building the mtn side estates...

[HooverDam]

^Sorry, I dont think the west valley will ever be for me. Other than Coyotes and Cardinals games, there is just no reason for me to go over there. Everything is in the central or east valley. Want to go to the zoo? E.V. Want to go to an ASU game? E.V. Botanical gardens? E.V. Just about any concert? Central or E.V., etc etc.

And yes there is a lot of custom homes being built in the west valley, like in Scottsdale, but thats not the part of Scottsdale Im sure most on this forum enjoy. Its the old town, compact, urban part of Scottsdale that we like, and the West side has nothing like that.

[xymox]

^Sorry, I dont think the west valley will ever be for me. Other than Coyotes and Cardinals games, there is just no reason for me to go over there. Everything is in the central or east valley. Want to go to the zoo? E.V. Want to go to an ASU game? E.V. Botanical gardens? E.V. Just about any concert? Central or E.V., etc etc.

And yes there is a lot of custom homes being built in the west valley, like in Scottsdale, but thats not the part of Scottsdale Im sure most on this forum enjoy. Its the old town, compact, urban part of Scottsdale that we like, and the West side has nothing like that.

There's a zoo out here too - the Wildlife Zoo, which I personally enjoy more with my family than trekking down to the Phx Zoo (and its cheaper). Concerts? The last few I went to were at Glendale, erm Jobbing.com Arena, or Cricket Pavillion - and there are now big concernts being booked for the AZ Cardinal's stadium.

As for compact, urban cores - those are coming, they are not here today. But check back in 5 years time. If plans holdup, we can see some more high-rise development over here even.

Just like you have little reason to drive to the west valley, I myself can't remember the last time I needed to go anywhere in the SE valley for anything, other than Ikea. ;)

I guess the point is, there's a lot emerging in the West Valley that will make it ever so much the equal of the East Valley. What makes this city great is that there is a lot to go and do, and you can do it by either staying in your immediate area, or driving across town for other events.

Both parts of town have their benefits.

[CodyW]

While the rest of the west valley is growing, my neighborhood is not.

South Glendale - "Maryvale Terrace" a prime example of urban (or suburban) decay.

http://i30.photobucket.com/albums/c344/nissanskyline1235/Randompics.jpg

(yeah.. I know its an odd shot, I was bored though.)

And yes, I realize it doesn't show more than a single street. lol

[PC2001]

lol.. that is an odd shot. Did you drop on the road to take the pic? I hope you didn't get burnt by the hot asphalt. lol