Tucson Development Thread

[andrewsaturn]

With the growth of online shopping and the impact of Covid, will the vision and plans to renovate and revitalize the blight that is the Foothills Mall come to fruition? The short answer is Yes, well, according to a recent interview by AZPM's Zachary Ziegler. Bourn Cos seems to have a decent track record when it comes to getting projects done. Bourn Cos owns the Landing at the NW corner of I-19/Irvington and it's currently one of most profitable retail sections in all of Arizona. They completed the new headquarters for Hexagon on Congress and they also have developments being completed at the Tucson Marketplace at the Bridges.

The Foothills Mall is currently anchored with Tucson's only AMC theaters and a Barnes and Nobles with a Starbucks. Plans for this property according to AZPM and Bourn's website says dense and a urban feeling. Bourn Co says changes will begin early 2023. There are no new renderings or a complete blueprint for how this will look. A old rendering is provided on Bourn's website:
https://www.bourncompanies.com/projects/uptown/


https://i.imgur.com/X1zEq3J.png
Preliminary artist rendering of the redevelopment of the Foothills Mall.

Link to AZPM article:

https://news.azpm.org/p/news-topical-biz/2022/11/25/213907-the-buzz-what-is-the-future-of-southern-arizonas-shopping-malls/

[AZ71]

https://i.imgur.com/tZzvqsg.png
Courtesy of ADS

In case you haven't noticed or been, The Landing (owned by Bourn Cos) on Tucson's SW side has burgeoned into a multi-retail center with tenants such as Planet Fitness, Chipotle, Eegees, Chick-fil-A, In-N-Out, Taco Bell, Krispy Creme, and Sprouts. Now under construction is an entertainment venue called Main Event, making it's first entry into the Tucson market. The 65 acre site is currently in development of a 3 story 200 apartment complex ranging from studio to 3 bedroom apartments. Opening date is Summer 2024. Expect more tenants to be announced for Phase 3.

All of this retail is located on the NW corner of I-19 and Irvington which doesn't include The Tucson Spectrum directly to the South. This portion includes Target, Home Depot, Harkins Theaters, and a new Steak house called the Hideout.

https://i.imgur.com/aBN3fhW.png
Courtesy of ADS
https://tucson.com/news/local/subscriber/200-apartments-entertainment-coming-to-tucsons-southwest-side/article_668ae1f0-53cc-11ed-9df1-db4da7ae5b6e.html

https://www.hcwdevelopment.com/project/tucson-landing-tucson-az

https://i.imgur.com/JDxaso8.png

So in other words...its just a huge shopping plaza straight from the 90s surrounded by fast food joints. No organization or pedestrian areas or an innovative community gathering space. I find this entire project uninspiring and quite horrible, actually. Glad that region is getting stores...but this isn't the way to do it.

[combusean]

Innovative and pedestrian friendly is expensive. There's obviously demand for cheap spaces and chain retail so this is the established formula for that. Places like Red Robin and Hobby Lobby don't find themselves in mixed-use spaces for a reason but they certainly do love their freeway frontage.

[kaneui]

So in other words...its just a huge shopping plaza straight from the 90s surrounded by fast food joints. No organization or pedestrian areas or an innovative community gathering space. I find this entire project uninspiring and quite horrible, actually. Glad that region is getting stores...but this isn't the way to do it.

Unfortunately, there is usually a significant difference between what Bourn Companies initially proposes and what they end up doing. Here''s a review of a few of their projects:

1. The Landing - the wording from their website on this project states that it will be "An eclectic mix of retail, restaurants, office and hospitality encircle a vibrant family-friendly zocalo-like plaza with local food, retail, entertainment and amusements." As currently built out, there is no longer any room for such a plaza, which obviously will not be incorporated.

2. The Bridges - there is similar, lofty language on their website describing two of the main projects within the 111 acres they are developing here. The description of The Brioso states that it will be "an eclectic Spanish-inspired residential community centered around a vibrant Main Street scene....and an innovative urban style resort," plus "an active 25-acre community park" with multiple amenities. To date, all we're seeing under construction are some modern-style multi-family apartments and another multi-family development with detached units. The Spanish-inspired theme, the Main Street focus and resort? Nowhere to be seen. And I'm guessing the elaborate park will never get built, eliminated at some point for more income-producing elements.

Mosaic, another project within The Bridges, is supposed to be "a creative office and educational district featuring JTED's....campus." JTED has been built on one end of the property, but nothing else built to date other than a Whataburger and an extended-stay hotel under construction. Again, where is the plan for this district? It seems like they're willing to put a building up for whomever wants to be there, without any real plan guiding any of it. And there is nothing in an existing area plan or city code to make them follow through with any of these proposals, even if they make nice copy for their website.

3. City Park - this downtown building--now known as the Hexagon Building--was originally supposed to include a ground-floor food hall and second floor bowling alley and entertainment area. However, as the years went by, and those spaces remained vacant, Hexagon eventually took over most of the remaining space. Bourn even had to return some of the GPLET money provided by Rio Nuevo, as they couldn't find a retail tenant to fill the NE corner of the ground floor. (Luckily, they were able to get The Monica from the Flores family to occupy the food hall space, who will be a stable, long-term tenant for them.) And they are now selling the nearby Indian Trading Post to Rio Nuevo, as they have been unable to find a suitable tenant to occupy that building.

And so it goes with our small local developers, many of whom have big plans, but are often unable to execute them, due to financing difficulties, etc. And I understand that initial plans often have to be adjusted due to economic conditions, but it seems that these factors can also cause these smaller developers to miss out on some windows of opportunity to get projects done.

For example, downtown's Mercado District had a wonderful award-winning plan to be a walkable, mixed-use urban development, initially to be surrounded by many museums and cultural amenities. Even though the museum part never panned out, many early adopters bought lots and built homes there, hoping that other parts of the plan would come together. However, many of the original residents have since left, as the only real amenities within walking distance after more than 10 years are the streetcar and Mercado San Agustin, with a few restaurants and shops. And at the pace they're going, The Gadsden Co. won't come close to buildout of the district for another 10-15 years, and well-heeled buyers and retirees don't have the patience to wait that long.

But an even bigger issue for the downtown is the lack of a guiding plan to redevelop the whole area, incorporating the latest best practices of urban development. The city and Rio Nuevo need to put together such a plan, which could still make a huge difference with all the existing vacant land and redevelopable properties in the downtown. (Rio Nuevo was even admonished to be more proactive in development planning in their most recent audit.) Yes, the proposed high-rise apartment building at Congress and I-10 would be a nice addition, but in the context of what bigger picture and plan for downtown's future?

Downtown was run down and unattractive for many years, so the city and Rio Nuevo have been happy to approve most any new development project that showed up. However, to really create the vibrant, desirable downtown with all the amenities modern urban centers should have, we need to move beyond that old mentality and create a vision and plan that outlines what we want our urban core to become. Perhaps then we can attract the larger national developers who would be willing to invest the funds to build some remarkable new projects, and also have the resources to execute those projects in a reasonable time frame.

[omarainza]

Innovative and pedestrian friendly is expensive. There's obviously demand for cheap spaces and chain retail so this is the established formula for that. Places like Red Robin and Hobby Lobby don't find themselves in mixed-use spaces for a reason but they certainly do love their freeway frontage.


adding to this, innovative and pedestrian friendly is very much a middle class white peoples world. trying to pull this stunt on the southside with a mostly slum mexican population.... not gonna happen. the city WASTED so much money to try and revitalize 12th avenue. most of the curbs, planters, and concrete "art" spheres have been destroyed, crashed into, stolen, or vandalized. noone uses the parking pullouts, its not safe to bike in this part of town, and its a nightmare to get home in a one lane street with lights every 1000 feet and no right or left turn lanes in a residential neighborhood with no bus pullouts....

p.s. i live a few blocks away, in a slum, as a below poverty line mexican, who can speak thru a lens noone else in this forum can 🙃

[AZ71]

adding to this, innovative and pedestrian friendly is very much a middle class white peoples world. trying to pull this stunt on the southside with a mostly slum mexican population.... not gonna happen. the city WASTED so much money to try and revitalize 12th avenue. most of the curbs, planters, and concrete "art" spheres have been destroyed, crashed into, stolen, or vandalized. noone uses the parking pullouts, its not safe to bike in this part of town, and its a nightmare to get home in a one lane street with lights every 1000 feet and no right or left turn lanes in a residential neighborhood with no bus pullouts....

p.s. i live a few blocks away, in a slum, as a below poverty line mexican, who can speak thru a lens noone else in this forum can 🙃

Whats your opinion on Mayor Romero wanting to extend the trolley right down 6th to the airport? It will effectively go through the "slums". I'm not for it because I think its illogical to have a trolley that goes nowhere. It won't pass by any industries or shopping or employment. But if its just going to make riding the trolley a worse experience...should that route be re-routed another direction?

[Obadno]

https://azbigmedia.com/business/american-battery-factory-brings-1-2b-facility-300-high-paying-jobs-to-tucson/

https://azbigmedia.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/American-Battery-Factory.png

Arizona Governor Doug Ducey and Paul Charles, President and CEO of American Battery Factory (ABF), today announced that Tucson, Ariz. has been selected as the site for the first in a planned series of battery cell gigafactories based in the United States. The site will serve as ABF’s official headquarters and will be the country’s largest gigafactory for the production of lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery cells at approximately 2 million square feet, providing an estimated $1.2 billion in capital investment, $3.1 billion in economic impact to the state and accelerating the growth of the clean energy economy across the country. Approximately 300 high-paying jobs will be provided in the first phase of the factory’s opening, scaling up to 1,000 cumulative jobs. Positions include operations, production, scientific and technology jobs including research and development, automation and robotics, executive and other headquarter positions.

“Arizona is proud to be home to American Battery Factory’s first U.S. facility and headquarters,” said Governor Ducey. “This transformational investment proves once again that Arizona is the premier destination for emerging technologies. The state-of-the-art factory will produce battery cells critical to our energy future right here in Tucson. My thanks to Paul Charles and the entire team at American Battery Factory for choosing our state for its innovative facility.”

READ ALSO: Autonomous driving company Pony.ai expands into Tucson

READ ALSO: How innovation zone could be an East Valley game-changer

The LFP battery cell chemistry ABF will employ allows for the production of the safest, longest-lasting, most reliable and eco-friendly batteries currently available. Avoiding the use of nickel and cobalt, ABF’s materials are more ethically sourced and last more than double the average performance of other batteries, making them an ideal option for durable and dependable energy storage systems. The cells will empower consumers, households, business owners and electric utilities to automate the management of their own inventory of power, gaining the independence to optimize and transform energy usage on their own terms. Energy storage made possible by ABF can power on-the-go lifestyles, off-the-grid living and industrial utilities as well as public industries and sectors.

“This investment represents a generational opportunity both for us as a company and for Tucson as a community as a means to truly make energy independence a reality for everyone,” said Charles. “Batteries make shifting to an entirely green energy economy possible. With this first factory, we will secure a strategically positioned company headquarters while taking the critical first steps in making it possible to one day move the country and the entire world to 100% renewable power. We are honored to start this journey in Tucson and give back to the community through innovation, quality job creation, revenue generation and environmental protection.”

To be located on 267 acres in Pima County’s renowned Aerospace Research Campus – close to world-class companies like Raytheon Missiles & Defense – ABF’s headquarters will be the home of energy storage innovation, with opportunities for new technology development. Through rapid modular construction, the company plans to have the headquarters, R&D center and initial factory module built within the next 18 to 24 months. Using cutting-edge construction technology, the building will greatly limit waste at the site, be airtight and will ensure the protection of the battery cells during production.

With high-capacity border and transportation infrastructure, Tucson is an ideal fit for ABF’s vision and will provide the necessary access to ship battery cells to nearby markets. Plans for the gigafactory aim to enhance Pima County’s already growing economy and support Arizona’s business community by cultivating an environment that fosters innovation as well as attracting and retaining residents to the Tucson economy.

Project partners include Governor Doug Ducey, Arizona Commerce Authority, Sun Corridor Inc., Pima County, City of Tucson, Pima Community College and Tucson Electric Power.

“With this announcement, American Battery Factory has elevated Arizona’s reputation as a national epicenter for battery manufacturing,” said Sandra Watson, president & CEO of the Arizona Commerce Authority. “American Battery Factory’s new facility and headquarters will advance Southern Arizona’s vibrant technology ecosystem while creating hundreds of skilled jobs and drive further economic growth to our state.”

“Today’s decision by the Board is another significant return on investment made by the County and taxpayers 10 years ago when the Board took positive steps to acquire the Aerospace Research Campus,” Board of Supervisors Chair Sharon Bronson said. “American Battery Factory is exactly the type of high-wage employer we hoped to attract. I welcome them to Pima County and wish them many years of success.”

“The City of Tucson is a national leader on climate action. We are a hub for resiliency and innovation,” said Tucson Mayor Regina Romero. “Tucson is a perfect city for American Battery Factory to partner with and we look forward to working together to support the energy storage industry.”

“American Battery Factory joins prominent regional and corporate headquarters in Southern Arizona, such as Raytheon Missiles & Defense, Caterpillar and Hexagon’s Mining division, among others,” said Joe Snell, president & CEO, Sun Corridor Inc. “This marquee project catapults Tucson into the national spotlight, ensuring this region has a prominent place in the energy storage and EV manufacturing supply chain being developed right here. With key advancements from ABF, Tucson will be a cutting-edge leader ushering in new EV technology and improved energy storage efficiency.”

“With our Advanced Manufacturing Center opening next year, PCC’s strategy and focus on Centers of Excellence was another key reason ABF chose Southern Arizona,” said Lee Lambert, chancellor & CEO, Pima Community College. “We are strongly positioned to train the workforce ABF needs and partner with this new facility to fast-track next-generation battery innovations to full production capacity. We’re looking forward to partnering with ABF on apprenticeship and internship programs for our students.”

“Energy storage not only drives powerful environmental benefits for our region, but economic benefits as well. TEP was a close partner on this project every step of the way, providing critical infrastructure and competitive pricing,” said Susan Gray, president & CEO, Tucson Electric Power. “ABF represents an ideal investment in our region, designed to meet unprecedented global demand for energy storage and battery cells required for renewable, independent, efficient and affordable energy solutions.”

ABF has secured strategic partnerships to make this landmark development a reality, partnering with Celgard (along with their parent company Asahi Kasei) for innovation and key cell components and Anovion for synthetic graphite. ABF plans to work with Honeywell to provide automation, cybersecurity and optimization products and services.

Nice video of the project on the website: https://www.americanbatteryfactory.com/


AZ manufacturing flying high!

[andrewsaturn]

The November 30 broadcast with Bill Buckmaster had Fletcher McCusker giving an update on Rio Nuevo and what is to come for 2023 including a snippet of 75 E Broadway.

Some of the information noted is nothing new but will reiterate it here:

- RN is back to precovid level revenue.
-Half of DT renters are of older generations.
-The TIGER grant helped pay for the Sunlink streetcar. It's not a money maker so it will continue to be subsidized but has been crucial to new development.
- RN board could expand in board members based on the new governor's added appointees. Previous Governor added three instead of five.

What can we expect from RN in 2023?

- RN says DT will add two more hotels

- 75 E Broadway will be developed with developers proposing 22 stories and will be part hotel instead of office.

- The Westside's 30-acre landfill has to be remediated and cleaned due to it's toxicity.

Listen to the full interview here:

https://www.buckmastershow.com/2022/11/30/buckmaster-show-11-30-2022-fox-theatre-expansion-plans/

[andrewsaturn]

Could the two hotels actually be the Arizona hotel and 75 E Broadway itself? Or one that's already proposed for One South Church?

[AZ71]

Could the two hotels actually be the Arizona hotel and 75 E Broadway itself? Or one that's already proposed for One South Church?

I dont really trust what Fletcher says anymore. Sometimes his facts are a bit off. My guess is the two new hotels is the One South Church and more than likely the AZ Hotel as you have stated.

I haven't heard a peep about 75 E Broadway as its still listed for sale on the county website. So unless he's just stating word of mouth I'll believe it when I see it. RN is a bit slow with this all though. Many people have been forcing RN to build residential or hotel instead over office space downtown. The fact that most new businesses want to build in our dozens of office parks (just like this new battery company) its silly to focus on luring companies to downtown.

Plus he's been talking about the landfill at A mountain for YEARS!!!!!!!!! We know it has to be cleaned up and its RN's job. They just never move forward with anything. Its gonna cost money but they have to spend it. Not only to build something on it...but its really dangerously close to our aquifer supply right there at the Santa Cruz. They had to cut back on the amount of treated water they were letting into the river because it was getting too close to the dump contaminants underground. Clean it up already.

[omarainza]

Whats your opinion on Mayor Romero wanting to extend the trolley right down 6th to the airport? It will effectively go through the "slums". I'm not for it because I think its illogical to have a trolley that goes nowhere. It won't pass by any industries or shopping or employment. But if its just going to make riding the trolley a worse experience...should that route be re-routed another direction?

honestly, the trolley has no business going to the airport. the high profile folks who are doing business at the airport are probably going to get a private car instead of a mingling with the common folk.... just sayin.

6th avenue is only "pretty" until it hits 5 points. its all junk from there. anyone calling south tucson "vibrant" is putting lipstick on a pig hehe. IF it were to ever happen, my opinion is that it should turn from 6th ave > benson hwy > tucson blvd > airport. this route has lots of empty land that can be gentrified instead of trying to preserve "historic" neighborhoods :yuck: maybe including a connection to VA hospital.

if it could be rerouted, it should just connect at the current end point at UAz banner and go down campbell > kino > benson hwy > tucson blvd > airport. this way it goes by UAz, the bridges, by the kino sports complex, and all that developable land on benson hwy for new businesses, and tucson blvd is mostly not as ugly to look at. its generally well kept and ALSO has several nice lots to develop.

there is no room for development anywhere on 6 ave, park, irvington, ajo, valencia that would make this a wise investment if expecting a ROI. the streets are too narrow and youd have to use a hell of alot of eminent domain to remove all those dilapidated "historic" buildings to make way for new development....

[Eapiwo]

Some bright residents here started Sion Power a few years back, they research ways to make batteries better, use better parts, and what not. Now the company is expanding their manufacturing operations here with another 150 jobs. This didn't make the headlines the same way American Battery Factory did, but this is really good news for Tucson - a homegrown group of entrepreneurs are making it big.

There's no turning back now. I feel like this is the beginning of the establishment of Tucson (as well as all of Arizona) as a major technology hub that's open for business, particularly for batteries and future transportations. I'd imagine that more companies will be settling here too in the near term future. IMO Arizona and Tucson's greatest resource is its brilliant people. The state has a unique ability to recruit educated people from elsewhere as well as an amazing capacity to generate our own talent through the state's universities. We're really entering the world stage now, it'll be interesting to see the growth in the city in the next decade. Raytheon is still looking to hire a thousand or so engineers. TuSimple is looking for engineers. Another autonomous driving company, Pony.Ai, is also setting up operations here, saying this about Tucson. “Tucson is quickly becoming a leading city for tech startups and smart city technology, and Pony.ai is excited to expand our operations there," said James Peng, Co-Founder and CEO, Pony.ai Source:https://www.azcommerce.com/news-events/news/2022/9/autonomous-driving-company-ponyai-expands-into-tucson/

Which is in line with what Sion Power's CEO said about expanding here.

Sion Power Announces Plans to Expand Battery Manufacturing Operations in Tucson, Arizona
The SP-1 factory expansion will be complete by 2026, creating over 150 jobs. . . Sion Power chose to expand because of its rich history, access and the availability of quality and skilled employees in the Tucson community. Since its inception as a small group of researchers for next-generation batteries, the company has been in Tucson. Now Sion Power has over 100 employees and is scaling up its ultra-high energy, lithium-metal based Licerion® battery development.
Source: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20221207005770/en/Sion-Power-Announces-Plans-to-Expand-Battery-Manufacturing-Operations-in-Tucson-Arizona



Elsewhere in the state, lots of tech growth has been occurring too, as I'm sure you've seen in the headlines.

TSMC announced a second facility in Phoenix - it's the state's largest investment ever. They'll be producing the world's most advanced mass produced chips.
https://azbigmedia.com/business/tsmc-impact-on-phoenix-80000-jobs-over-next-5-years/

A lithium-ion battery recycling plant to be built in Eloy.
https://www.azcommerce.com/news-events/news/2022/9/new-lithium-ion-battery-recycling-facility-in-eloy-to-produce-critical-materials-for-north-american-battery-supply-chain/

All this is while a few hours away at the Salton Sea, there may be the world's biggest lithium reserve waiting to be extracted. Companies are working on technologies there, but the idea is that a company can produce geothermal electricity at the sea and release lithium as a biproduct - generating electricity and lithium without the notoriously ecologically bad lithium mines that are in China, South America, and Australia. If companies can strike white gold there, I wouldn't be surprised if battery manufacturers, electric car companies, and others decided to send the lithium on a train to AZ to be made into usable products. It's something to look out for.

https://www.cnbc.com/2022/05/04/the-salton-sea-could-produce-the-worlds-greenest-lithium.html

Tucson has historically been a government jobs kind of city. Even Raytheon is essentially funded by the government. This new kind of private industry expansion (with high paying jobs) is really unheard of here, it'll really help the city. I wonder how much of this momentum is due to the city and mayor being proactive. Didn't the city very recently annex the region around the airport, relocate Hughes Rd, develop tax incentives for industry, and rezone it so that it would be ready to build as soon as someone wanted to? That may be what made Tucson so hard to pass up for Phoenix this time around.

[kmiller5]

Has there been any updates on the Opus development on 4th? I know the demos occurred but would be interested in hearing if a crane has been erected on site

[Ted Lyons]

Has there been any updates on the Opus development on 4th? I know the demos occurred but would be interested in hearing if a crane has been erected on site

Crane has been there for a while. Last I saw, first floor columns were fully in place. That was two weeks ago, though, so they may be on to the second floor now.

[Naturaul]

The lots east of the MSA Annex have been fenced off and an office trailer is on site. Hopefully, that means construction on Bautista will begin soon.

Edit: first time posting here - tried to upload an image but it doesn't seem to work...

https://imgur.com/GxylE3n

[andrewsaturn]

The lots east of the MSA Annex have been fenced off and an office trailer is on site. Hopefully, that means construction on Bautista will begin soon.

Edit: first time posting here - tried to upload an image but it doesn't seem to work...

https://ibb.co/m9DFTQy

You can upload to Imgur.com for free first. Then you can use their link to copy and paste to here directly. Let me know if you need detailed info on how to do it.

[andrewsaturn]

Swaim associates posted a new design photo of the Ronstadt Center development on their website under current projects. This looks much different than the design proposed several years ago. This seemingly indicates some life to the project which has been delayed for some time now. The photo shows some more height to the developments than previously designed as well. Hopefully we can get some updates with this project this year.


https://i.imgur.com/uKoCizt.png

[andrewsaturn]

ICYMI:

New drone footage of the Downtown Links shot in December 2022. They are pouring the new pedestrian deck plaza this week as well.

"Beginning Tuesday, January 17, 2023, around 7 p.m., Stone Avenue south of Sixth Street to Franklin Street/Toole Avenue, including the Stone Avenue underpass, is scheduled to close to all northbound and southbound travel. This closure will be in place while the contractor conducts a deck pour on the new bicycle and pedestrian bridge over Stone Avenue."

The project is projected to be completed next year Summer 2024.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ssz4jdatZzE

[andrewsaturn]

ICYMI:

PCC and the developers of the new Mosaic Quarter want to collaborate for student workforce programs. They also announced a partnership with TMC Health that will provide certified athletic trainers for games played there. The Mosaic Quarter will include a new hockey arena that will house the Arizona Wildcat hockey team.

https://biztucson.com/mosaic-quarter-tmc-health-tucson-orthopaedic-institute-announce-partnership/

https://i.imgur.com/DJjbGJy.png

[andrewsaturn]

Swaim associates posted a new design photo of the Ronstadt Center development on their website under current projects. This looks much different than the design proposed several years ago. This seemingly indicates some life to the project which has been delayed for some time now. The photo shows some more height to the developments than previously designed as well. Hopefully we can get some updates with this project this year.


https://i.imgur.com/uKoCizt.png

The Tucsonan in me also says this particular design looks way too overly optimistic :haha:

[InTheBurbs]

The Tucsonan in me also says this particular design looks way too overly optimistic :haha:

I'm not holding out much hope either, especially since they didn't even get the street names right - N. 5th "STREET"? And even if they meant 5th AVENUE, that's another block over. And they got the MLK Building in the wrong spot. It hasn't been there for 15 years.

It would be nice to see progress there, but given the early 2000's graphics, the use of the old name for One North Fifth, and the unbridled optimism, I wonder if this is something left over from one of the previous proposals.

[InTheBurbs]

It would be nice to see progress there, but given the early 2000's graphics, the use of the old name for One North Fifth, and the unbridled optimism, I wonder if this is something left over from one of the previous proposals.

On closer inspection though it does reference Hub and The Playground. So maybe something is happening.

[andrewsaturn]

I didn't really get a chance to listen to the RN meeting yesterday but was able to listen to some parts of the Solot Plaza redevelopment on Broadway. Here are a few photos of the development plan. They hope to get it redeveloped by the end of this year I believe.

https://i.imgur.com/SinLgER.png
https://i.imgur.com/y52IqlW.png
https://i.imgur.com/uk0IA0w.png

[crzyabe]

That Solot redevelopment looks really nice, I am impressed

[Azstar]

Building permit issued for what, I think, is the Bautista.


Commercial Building Commercial New
Building Permit
165 S LINDA AV, TUCSON, AZ
85745
T21CM09453 Issued 01/23/2023 466,293 $64,533,616 11620637A
Description: New Apartment Building with Underground Parking
Contractor: Harrison Jones
5525 N. Mac Arthur Blvd Suite 400, Irving, TX 75038
(972)580-1210 harrison.jones@emjcorp.com

[OldPueblo$]

That Solot redevelopment looks really nice, I am impressed

Its because its a legit developer. All too often Rio Nuevo et al side up with folks who don't have the wherewithall to get it done. They need to do a deeper dive into the financial strength of the developers.

[andrewsaturn]

Building permit issued for what, I think, is the Bautista.


Commercial Building Commercial New
Building Permit
165 S LINDA AV, TUCSON, AZ
85745
T21CM09453 Issued 01/23/2023 466,293 $64,533,616 11620637A
Description: New Apartment Building with Underground Parking
Contractor: Harrison Jones
5525 N. Mac Arthur Blvd Suite 400, Irving, TX 75038
(972)580-1210 harrison.jones@emjcorp.com

Yes, this is it.

https://i.imgur.com/CauZgeI.png

[andrewsaturn]

Some renderings of the new housing called the BRIOSO at the Bridges . It's a Spanish contemporary adobe style living. (wish it was two story duplexes to increase the density)
https://i.imgur.com/mwZdnxg.png
https://i.imgur.com/yYyW8Px.png

Fly through video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RuEQqAtzqyc

https://i.imgur.com/9jwCz84.png

This is only one part of the plan to include more housing "centered around a vibrant Main Street scene with 128 modern homes, creative office and live/work spaces and an innovative urban-style resort," according to the Bourn website. So, next to Brioso they plan to build a dog park, a park, tennis courts etc.

https://i.imgur.com/gc7XMri.png

[andrewsaturn]

From UA Wildcat Hockey twitter:
https://i.imgur.com/YZwerJp.png

[andrewsaturn]

Rio Nuevo issued a RFP (Request For Proposal) recently for the Indian Trading Post. They want to choose a developer by March 2023.
https://i.imgur.com/N4DeXRi.png
https://i.imgur.com/cUqX8MW.png
https://i.imgur.com/LyGlx6Z.png
https://i.imgur.com/BFRf2i1.png

It was built in 1897, has 3 floors, and 10K SF.

[Azstar]

The Indian Trading Post has been empty and waiting for over 3 years.

[Patrick S]

Article with information on possible transit corridor - Tucson Norte-Sur - from TIA to Tucson Mall.

https://tucson.com/news/local/govt-and-politics/city-takes-new-approach-for-transit-plan-between-tucson-mall-airport/article_46cfb358-9dbf-11ed-9334-4b97e777baf8.html

[Azstar]

Article with information on possible transit corridor - Tucson Norte-Sur - from TIA to Tucson Mall.

https://tucson.com/news/local/govt-and-politics/city-takes-new-approach-for-transit-plan-between-tucson-mall-airport/article_46cfb358-9dbf-11ed-9334-4b97e777baf8.html

In typical fashion, the Arizona state republican legislature is trying to pass a bill which restricts municipalities from receiving funds for mass transit, specifically light rail. They want the money used for roads. (Influenced by the petroleum industry $$, by any chance? Hmmmm.)

Arizona lawmakers move to control local transportation decisions

https://tucson.com/news/state-and-regional/arizona-lawmakers-move-to-control-local-transportation-decisions/article_44b3408c-abb4-11ed-968e-33c9eeb3d44a.html

[Obadno]

In typical fashion, the Arizona state republican legislature is trying to pass a bill which restricts municipalities from receiving funds for mass transit, specifically light rail. They want the money used for roads. (Influenced by the petroleum industry $$, by any chance? Hmmmm.)

Arizona lawmakers move to control local transportation decisions

https://tucson.com/news/state-and-regional/arizona-lawmakers-move-to-control-local-transportation-decisions/article_44b3408c-abb4-11ed-968e-33c9eeb3d44a.html

You dont need big oil to have local reps against light rail. They see it as an expensive waste of money that their constituents likely will never see a benefit from. Why would they support light rail when they are far more likely to benefit from road construction?

I am not saying this is correct, but I find it funny people seem incapable of understanding other people's perspectives. Just because it doesn't align with your goals doesn't make it irrational or a conspiracy.

[somethingfast]

You dont need big oil to have local reps against light rail. They see it as an expensive waste of money that their constituents likely will never see a benefit from. Why would they support light rail when they are far more likely to benefit from road construction?

I am not saying this is correct, but I find it funny people seem incapable of understanding other people's perspectives. Just because it doesn't align with your goals doesn't make it irrational or a conspiracy.

Yep, 90% empty buses and trolley cars to nowhere will not make a damn bit of difference to traffic issues. But a cross-town freeway would. So....never gonna happen.

[crzyabe]

Yep, 90% empty buses and trolley cars to nowhere will not make a damn bit of difference to traffic issues. But a cross-town freeway would. So....never gonna happen.

A crosstown freeway would cost over $1billion a mile. If it is ever built, it should be tolled. Let the drivers pay a couple bucks each time they use it.

[somethingfast]

A crosstown freeway would cost over $1billion a mile. If it is ever built, it should be tolled. Let the drivers pay a couple bucks each time they use it.

Well it's never gonna be built...not in Tucson. People are just happy to spend 30 mins going 10 miles apparently. Sure, toll it, whatever. Moot point. Enjoy your 20th century trolleys in 21st century :tup:

[combusean]

^ How stupid can you make a post? You ignore the $10 billion cost and use the opportunity to troll instead. :uhh: Nothing 21st century about a freeway instead. Modern streetcars didn't exist in the "19th" century.

[somethingfast]

^ How stupid can you make a post? You ignore the $10 billion cost and use the opportunity to troll instead. :uhh: Nothing 21st century about a freeway instead. Modern streetcars didn't exist in the "19th" century.

Look who's trolling now? I will never cut slack for Tucson for their hair-brained anti-progress stance on just about everything. Have you been down there recently? Literally falling apart...and they waste millions on studies for lame projects that don't fix anything. Sorry, agree to disagree. And since I'm one of many, many native Tucsonans that has to flee to make a living, I have the right to bitch.

[crzyabe]

Look who's trolling now? I will never cut slack for Tucson for their hair-brained anti-progress stance on just about everything. Have you been down there recently? Literally falling apart...and they waste millions on studies for lame projects that don't fix anything. Sorry, agree to disagree. And since I'm one of many, many native Tucsonans that has to flee to make a living, I have the right to bitch.

So you left Tucson to "make a living", you regularly read a forum about Tucson development, you post about cross town freeways and lack of development which really does not add anything to the current topic.

Fuck man, you need a therapist. I'd recommend one, but I live in Tucson.

[CrestedSaguaro]

It's too early in the morning for this. Enough.

[InTheBurbs]

The Century Park theaters at Grant and I-10 have been torn down to make way for a new Pascua Yaqui casino


https://tucson.com/news/local/photos-old-century-park-16-theaters-demolished-for-new-tucson-casino (https://tucson.com/news/local/photos-old-century-park-16-theaters-demolished-for-new-tucson-casino/collection_9b809e22-b15a-11ed-be6b-d3cd467ad239.html)

https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/4/d0/4d00ca8c-b15b-11ed-b43b-6f93d1367fdd/63f3d4d90a2ee.image.jpg?resize=1200%2C591
Photo: Mamta Popat, Arizona Daily Star

More info on the plans for the casino here: https://www.kgun9.com/news/local-news/tucson/500-jobs-expected-at-new-casino

[somethingfast]

i remember getting tickets there for Jurassic Park in '93. Also played about $50 worth of quarters with my best friend on T2 video game to finally beat it. Good times! Theater was strange...first movie I saw there was Steel Magnolias in like '89 and by '91 or so it was mostly cheap seats 2nd run flicks. Never quite made it as one thing or another.

[andrewsaturn]

The rumblings of the Foothills Mall redevelopment soon to begin?
https://i.imgur.com/qIkaJPS.png
https://i.imgur.com/yQ9cq8B.png
https://i.imgur.com/ZUaLwSX.png
https://i.imgur.com/KYK7fDO.png

[andrewsaturn]

Opus development progress. Two stories already completed.
https://i.imgur.com/AaVpmir.png
https://i.imgur.com/bPZUViF.png

[Patrick S]

Don't know if anyone saw but TIME Magazine listed 50 places for 'World's Greatest Places 2023' and Tucson made the list.

https://time.com/6261639/tucson-ariz/https://time.com/6261639/tucson-ariz/

[Azstar]

Check out this list in Travel + Leisure magazine.

https://www.travelandleisure.com/best-food-cities-in-the-us-7254754

[Eapiwo]

Hotel Arizona downtown looks like it's got a construction team working on it, finally. It looks like a temporary service elevator has been placed on the south wall.

[andrewsaturn]

March 28, 2023 RN Meeting:

-Zenams: had some issues with permits, inflation costs, and parking lot delays but is poised to start construction in April if/when the construction permits go through soon.
https://i.imgur.com/PJgkmMj.png

-"Basqueria" restaurant: Modern Spain/French cuisine for breakfast,lunch,dinner and lounge. 350 E Congress st. (Former Fired Pie). Owner also runs Urban Pita downtown.
https://i.imgur.com/ZDRYs21.png

-Children's Museum downtown expansion: serves 155,000 patrons annually.
Says they have more people that visit than they could fit in a space during events. Growth of attendance in last 20 years was 172%. Wants to add 13K sq.ft by moving their admin offices to 130 S. Scott ave building and freeing space in the current building. With expansion, poised to entertain 255,000 patrons. Wants to add Cafe and gift shop.
https://i.imgur.com/tl5YxB6.png
https://i.imgur.com/bRM7kLy.png
https://i.imgur.com/Q7UNWNV.png
https://i.imgur.com/tacyD96.png

-Indian Trading Post: new operator selected and one of the names is Zach Fenton. $5.5M investment. $2M from RN.

-Solot Plaza: This was just the board approving GPLET and other movements with Larsen Baker partnership.

-Obon downtown expansion: Owner says it's unnoticeable from the street. Wants to change the outside facade and add roof to the patio. Wants to start construction in June.
https://i.imgur.com/UZkFv64.png
https://i.imgur.com/BHE3n1W.png
https://i.imgur.com/h1djK7j.png

[andrewsaturn]

Demolition progress of the Foothills Mall. New renderings will be revealed May 15 at https://headuptown.com/

Check out some drone footage from Spicy Drone: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qLrjW5t2CE0

https://i.imgur.com/xUDoCPn.png

https://i.imgur.com/syTscq6.png

[andrewsaturn]

Reid Park Zoo is working on a new parking lot north of Edith Ball Rec center and south of Hi Corbett field. They expect it to be finished Fall of 2023 and will then move forward with their Pathway to Asia project adding 3.5 acres to the current footprint.

https://reidparkzoo.org/blog/new-parking-lot-underway/

https://i.imgur.com/lyBRs0s.png

[andrewsaturn]

RN Meeting 4/25/23

- Broadway and Church project. 29-58 West Congress. They want to improve the facade for the properties currently occupied by Street Taco, JA Ramen, and Perche No. Plans include to add a coffee shop, new cocktail bar concept (called Greyhen and Platform 18, collaborators are from PHX with same concept there), and 5 Lofts on top of the current businesses.
https://i.imgur.com/fnlHYk0.png
https://i.imgur.com/wfNf6ve.png

-The Country Home block Project (Sunshine Mile): awarded to owners of Prep and Pastry. Re-imagine the block with shops to include a social house with boutique bowling alley, bakery, Isabella ice cream, and brewery. They want to move fast and be operational by Dec 2023.
https://i.imgur.com/tcBfo3w.png
https://i.imgur.com/bbRBDee.png
https://i.imgur.com/MZXBmVy.png

-TUSD surplus property lease: Business looking to lease a former TUSD property and needed RN and TUSD approval.

-TruX contract for TCC: will install broadband and different electronics...(Not exactly sure what this is)

-TCC capitol improvements and Music Hall garage project: tabled for 60 days, they wanted to discuss it further before public discussion. The agenda stated that there is a plan to add a structure or development on top of the parking garage.

[Ted Lyons]

RN Meeting 4/25/23

- Broadway and Church project. 29-58 West Congress. They want to improve the facade for the properties currently occupied by Street Taco, JA Ramen, and Perche No. Plans include to add a coffee shop, new cocktail bar concept (called Greyhen and Platform 18, collaborators are from PHX with same concept there), and 5 Lofts on top of the current businesses.
https://i.imgur.com/fnlHYk0.png
https://i.imgur.com/wfNf6ve.png

-The Country Home block Project (Sunshine Mile): awarded to owners of Prep and Pastry. Re-imagine the block with shops to include a social house with boutique bowling alley, bakery, Isabella ice cream, and brewery. They want to move fast and be operational by Dec 2023.
https://i.imgur.com/tcBfo3w.png
https://i.imgur.com/bbRBDee.png
https://i.imgur.com/MZXBmVy.png

-TUSD surplus property lease: Business looking to lease a former TUSD property and needed RN and TUSD approval.

-TruX contract for TCC: will install broadband and different electronics...(Not exactly sure what this is)

-TCC capitol improvements and Music Hall garage project: tabled for 60 days, they wanted to discuss it further before public discussion. The agenda stated that there is a plan to add a structure or development on top of the parking garage.

-That Congress and Church project sounds amazing. Century Grand (the venue these people own in Phoenix) is really highly respected.

-Lot of irons in the fire for the Prep & Pastry people, I feel like. Hope it comes to fruition but that timeline doesn't sound realistic to me which, in turn, makes me question the viability of the project. Hoping for the best, though.

-My guess is the TUSD surplus property is the storage shed thing behind their administrative offices, fronting Broadway right near the old Maui Smokeshop building. I might be wrong, but that structure wastes that entire block from a development perspective.

[southtucsonboy77]

It’s been a while since anyone has posted…and I was hoping to share some update-pics of the Bautista and Opus projects, but I’m rusty with linking the pics and I’m at work.

My verbal update(s) are: the Opus appears to be starting the 5th and 6th floors; and the Bautista is over a month into the earthwork and site prep, concrete/foundations likely to pour next month.

[InTheBurbs]

This was supposed to be on the agenda at the last RN meeting. Anyone know anything about what's being proposed over the TCC garage?

11) Music Hall Parking Lot Air Rights – Possible Action
One of the developers of the TCC Doubletree has proposed a development on top of the recently built garage west of the TCC Music Hall. That structure was constructed to allow for such additional development. The Board will discuss and consider granting an option to acquire the air rights as well as all other aspects of such a project....

EDIT: I see that Ted posted previously that discussion was tabled at last meeting.

[andrewsaturn]

The new Bautista project in the Mercado district began construction on March 1st and is expected to be completed by August 2025. The project will include 256 apartments and a public tree lined walkway (paseo) going from the Santa Cruz river and through the west end district, etc.

https://biztucson.com/gadsden-company-announces-construction-of-bautista-apartments-in-mercado-district/

https://i.imgur.com/wRm3he4.png

https://i.imgur.com/gi8qptX.png

[andrewsaturn]

Images of the new AZPM building at the Bridges. Location is at the NE corner of Kino Pky and 36th St. Completion is expected in 2025.

https://ua-pdc.smugmug.com/Projects/22-9576/i-tcFZSNS

https://i.imgur.com/sdTA2g9.png
https://i.imgur.com/fgfSwoY.png

[OldPueblo$]

Only took 20+/- years!

[crzyabe]

Interesting read on the redesign of Reid Park

Reid Park Reimagined addresses extreme heat and resiliency in Tucson (https://worldlandscapearchitect.com/reid-park-reimagined-addresses-extreme-heat-and-resiliency-in-tucson/?v=7516fd43adaa)

[High Plains Drifter]

bZaUCqgYdqU

[High Plains Drifter]

Foothills Mall demolition complete

The construction team tells KGUN 9 they're planning to begin work on the new residential and retail project—named the Uptown—in early September.

https://www.kgun9.com/news/local-news/foothills-mall-demolition-complete

[High Plains Drifter]

Joint Venture Acquires Development Site for 648-Bed Student Housing Community Near University of Arizona

A joint venture between Core Spaces, Up Campus Properties and Harrison Street has acquired a development site near the University of Arizona campus in Tucson. The site will be home to a 648-bed student housing community dubbed Hub Tucson V.

https://rebusinessonline.com/joint-venture-acquires-development-site-for-648-bed-student-housing-community-near-university-of-arizona/


https://rebusinessonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Hub-Tucson-V.jpg

[andrewsaturn]

RN meeting today discussed the budget and had 3 items on the agenda.

-Marcel Dabdoub is working on bringing a successful international grocery store to the corner of Broadway and Plumer (Old Dollar Tree store). Unnamed store for now since it is still going through negotiations. He said the brand is very selective so this is intriguing for sure... He expects it to be open by 2025 and RN will commit 1.5M for the project.
https://i.imgur.com/ufd9Zgj.png
https://i.imgur.com/KbOVVh9.png

-La Estrella bakery at the Home2Suites hotel on Stone across the street from the Cathedral. RN is willing to help with investment as long as the owners can show they pay or can pay sales tax on bakery items like donuts. I think this will be really great for the hotel guests.
https://i.imgur.com/mcjoBKg.png
https://i.imgur.com/lpRPt9G.png

-Indian Trading Post. Not much update on this actually. As it was reported earlier, RN selected a developer who is currently working on the interior which needs a lot of work. It will cost $4M to renovate and RN will contribute to half of it. *No renderings or concept has been delivered yet.

[Ted Lyons]

RN meeting today discussed the budget and had 3 items on the agenda.

-Marcel Dabdoub is working on bringing a successful international grocery store to the corner of Broadway and Plumer (Old Dollar Tree store). Unnamed store for now since it is still going through negotiations. He said the brand is very selective so this is intriguing for sure... He expects it to be open by 2025 and RN will commit 1.5M for the project.
https://i.imgur.com/ufd9Zgj.png
https://i.imgur.com/KbOVVh9.png

-La Estrella bakery at the Home2Suites hotel on Stone across the street from the Cathedral. RN is willing to help with investment as long as the owners can show they pay or can pay sales tax on bakery items like donuts. I think this will be really great for the hotel guests.
https://i.imgur.com/mcjoBKg.png
https://i.imgur.com/lpRPt9G.png

-Indian Trading Post. Not much update on this actually. As it was reported earlier, RN selected a developer who is currently working on the interior which needs a lot of work. It will cost $4M to renovate and RN will contribute to half of it. *No renderings or concept has been delivered yet.

The Daily Star has a story up about the meeting already, surprisingly.

https://tucson.com/news/local/business/real-estate/tucson-grocery-store-midtown/article_84c560ae-153d-11ee-b283-a7b733964cf8.html#tracking-source=mp-homepage

Their article doesn't mention that the grocery store is "international." This distinction is critical because Trader Joe's doesn't have any locations outside the US. We can rule out most chains based on the size of the store and the proximity to Safeway. Also, just in general, I think we're running out of other options other than maybe Aldi, which is international.

[Azstar]

The Daily Star has a story up about the meeting already, surprisingly.

https://tucson.com/news/local/business/real-estate/tucson-grocery-store-midtown/article_84c560ae-153d-11ee-b283-a7b733964cf8.html#tracking-source=mp-homepage

Their article doesn't mention that the grocery store is "international." This distinction is critical because Trader Joe's doesn't have any locations outside the US. We can rule out most chains based on the size of the store and the proximity to Safeway. Also, just in general, I think we're running out of other options other than maybe Aldi, which is international.

I'm thinking it's going to be Aldi.

[InTheBurbs]

Jaime's Pizza Kitchen is moving into the Diablo Burger/Little Love Burger space on Congress.

https://tucson.com/news/local/subscriber/downtown-tucson-pizzeria-opening/article_9263e568-151b-11ee-95e7-a72a16b6eed4.html#tracking-source=home-the-latest

[High Plains Drifter]

What grows faster than cotton? Marana

The Town of Marana is poised to grow its population to over 100,000 in the next five years as new companies, both in the town and in neighboring Pinal County, fuel the need for new housing.

https://tucson.com/news/local/subscriber/what-grows-faster-than-cotton-marana/article_ecafec4c-107a-11ee-9af1-b7aa438e3458.html



https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/d/e3/de3df694-1549-11ee-a0b8-6b27abbc6e21/649b7d65eb359.image.jpg?resize=820%2C500

[High Plains Drifter]

My wife and I got out for a chill bike ride to Exo Coffee Roasters on 6th Avenue early Sunday morning. While there I grabbed a few phone camera shots of the progress on the Corbett Building project across the street.

https://tucson.com/news/local/subscriber/burgers-beer-garden-and-pickleball-coming-to-historic-tucson-building/article_54ceb708-c717-11ec-bcfb-07e646f6cdc7.html



https://i.imgur.com/25TdAfF.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/YGi9yId.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/UF1ph5a.jpg

[High Plains Drifter]

A few grab shots of work on The Bautista in the Mercado District on Sunday, 7/9/23. The Bautista: https://rionuevo.org/project/bautista/


https://i.imgur.com/Ru2XP5R.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/1w9llCc.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/1I6xqs0.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/CWVhXmn.jpg

[Eapiwo]

A few grab shots of work on The Bautista in the Mercado District on Sunday, 7/9/23.

Good to finally see the project take off. The Mercado District and Tucson deserve better than infinitely undeveloped dirt lots. Opus looks to be about 7 or 8 floors up and has a massive presence downtown. The Hotel Arizona apartment restoration project is also accepting applicants for an October move in. Those three projects alone are going to thrust about 700 or 800 new residents downtown in the upcoming year. I think they'll definitely thrust some more energy downtown once they're completed. Especially the Bautista since it will be so prominent in the west side.

[kmiller5]

Good to finally see the project take off. The Mercado District and Tucson deserve better than infinitely undeveloped dirt lots. Opus looks to be about 7 or 8 floors up and has a massive presence downtown. The Hotel Arizona apartment restoration project is also accepting applicants for an October move in. Those three projects alone are going to thrust about 700 or 800 new residents downtown in the upcoming year. I think they'll definitely thrust some more energy downtown once they're completed. Especially the Bautista since it will be so prominent in the west side.

What is the Hotel Arizona apartment restoration?

[High Plains Drifter]

City of Tucson to consider mid-rise development at southwest corner of 6th and Campbell

https://www.kgun9.com/news/local-news/city-of-tucson-to-consider-mid-rise-development-at-southwest-corner-of-6th-and-campbell

https://www.tucsonaz.gov/files/sharedassets/public/pdsd/documents/boards-committees-commissions/ze/sixth-at-campbell-pad-april-2023_v1.pdf


https://i.imgur.com/q4oKr6d.png

[High Plains Drifter]

Opus looks to be about 7 or 8 floors up and has a massive presence downtown.

I saw that Opus posted a time lapse vid update on ARI on Fourth Apartments about a month ago. Obviously more work has been done since this video posted.

https://www.opus-group.com/Work/ARI-on-Fourth-Apartments


vuCY6khzGWQ

[InTheBurbs]

I saw that Opus posted a time lapse vid update on ARI on Fourth Apartments about a month ago. Obviously more work has been done since this video posted.

https://www.opus-group.com/Work/ARI-on-Fourth-Apartments


Virtual Railfan has a webcam on the platform at the train station. It pans back and forth along the tracks and you can see the progress on the lower floors of ARI (unless there is a train sitting there).

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sbhZhNuxWUA

[High Plains Drifter]

Virtual Railfan has a webcam on the platform at the train station. It pans back and forth along the tracks and you can see the progress on the lower floors of ARI (unless there is a train sitting there).

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sbhZhNuxWUA

Very cool, thank you very much for the link.

That view from the train station made me curious as to what is the current status of the proposed Tucson-Phoenix Amtrak service. This news story from last month is the most recent info I found:

https://www.azcentral.com/story/news/local/phoenix/2023/06/08/rep-greg-stanton-pushes-for-return-amtrak-passenger-rail-service-in-phoenix/70300137007/

IMHO this can't happen fast enough. However it looks like we're still some years away.



https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/tucson.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/5/1b/51b081cc-c063-11e9-a6a3-d3ad58b1e13a/5d5710199ca78.image.jpg?resize=1200%2C669

[Obadno]

Very cool, thank you very much for the link.

That view from the train station made me curious as to what is the current status of the proposed Tucson-Phoenix Amtrak service. This news story from last month is the most recent info I found:


IMHO this can't happen fast enough. However it looks like we're still some years away.



It's going to take a long time but technically funding is there do to various infrastructure/spending bills federally over the last few years. I want this solely for the redevelopment of the Downtown Phoenix station that it would cause.

[High Plains Drifter]

It's going to take a long time but technically funding is there do to various infrastructure/spending bills federally over the last few years. I want this solely for the redevelopment of the Downtown Phoenix station that it would cause.

Let's hope this effort in the House goes nowhere:

The House bill would also eliminate the federal-state Partnership for Intercity Passenger Rail program.

https://www.progressiverailroading.com/federal_legislation_regulation/news/House-subcommittee-advances-bill-that-would-slash-funding-for-rail--69665

[southtucsonboy77]

The development package for the 17-story building on the SE corner of the I-10 frontage road and Congress was submitted to the City on May 12th. The City actually has been on task in reviewing and providing comments.

You can follow the progress here: https://pro.tucsonaz.gov/permitdetails/TD-DEV-0523-00242/

[High Plains Drifter]

The development package for the 17-story building on the SE corner of the I-10 frontage road and Congress was submitted to the City on May 12th. The City actually has been on task in reviewing and providing comments.

You can follow the progress here: https://pro.tucsonaz.gov/permitdetails/TD-DEV-0523-00242/

Thank you very much for the heads up! I grabbed a few renderings:


https://i.imgur.com/dvmdWR1.png

https://i.imgur.com/UWDnrtK.png

https://i.imgur.com/L44iDp0.png

https://i.imgur.com/mk669xe.png

https://i.imgur.com/9Ff7SJe.png

https://i.imgur.com/0msggQt.jpg

[southtucsonboy77]

It appears that the development group applied some of the feedbacks from the Design Review stage and moved their primary driveway/entrance to the east (originally it was to the north off of Congress); and they've moved the entire structure more to the north and closer to Congress. I'm all for a better streetscape presence.

I'm curious as to how these changes will effect the overall facade.

[High Plains Drifter]

It appears that the development group applied some of the feedbacks from the Design Review stage and moved their primary driveway/entrance to the east (originally it was to the north off of Congress); and they've moved the entire structure more to the north and closer to Congress. I'm all for a better streetscape presence.

I'm curious as to how these changes will effect the overall facade.


Here are a couple sheets I grabbed from your link reflecting those updates:


https://i.imgur.com/SFZvHxD.png

https://i.imgur.com/0xKqiFD.png

[High Plains Drifter]

Building agreement on large development near UA

A major new development planned for the edge of the University of Arizona has been working to win over neighbors who’ve been apprehensive about its effects.

https://www.kgun9.com/news/local-news/building-agreement-on-large-development-near-ua

https://www.tucsonaz.gov/files/sharedassets/public/pdsd/documents/boards-committees-commissions/ze/sixth-at-campbell-pad-april-2023_v1.pdf



https://ewscripps.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/334aae3/2147483647/strip/true/crop/784x424+0+0/resize/784x424!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fewscripps-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2F03%2F2c%2Fb6b73c42414b8615346dcb30534e%2Fpad4.PNG

[High Plains Drifter]

From big developments to tiny homes, Pima County needs them all

The county has a housing shortage which shows no signs of abating.

https://www.kold.com/2023/07/18/big-developments-tiny-homes-pima-county-needs-them-all/



https://i.imgur.com/yyiCbF2.jpg

[High Plains Drifter]

Recent vid of downtown:


9R9Fq1whTwQ

[southtucsonboy77]

Random takes...

471 W. Congress will be the 5th tallest building in Tucson at approx. 199 feet behind 1) One South Church 2) Bank of America Plaza 3) Pima County Legal Services Building; and 4) 5151 E. Broadway.

The Opus on 4th will be tied for 17th with the currently vacant Hotel Arizona.

Take my word unofficially, but rumor is that 75 W. Broadway will not be 20 floors, but closer to 13. The structure/facade looks the same, but with new colors.

Over a year ago, the Casino/Hotel project was once scoped to be 14 total floors. Unfortunately, the economy changed and interest rates went up. But just wanted to let you all know they were thinking big. It is no secret they may phase out with casino first, hotel second.

Remember those mysterious drawings of the Ronstadt project several months ago? I dug into it at the time...and a sub- did reveal that there was conversation to make one of the structures Tucson's tallest. They were still waiting for FTA approvals, etc. The project hasn't died...yet.

[AZ71]

Random takes...

471 W. Congress will be the 5th tallest building in Tucson at approx. 199 feet behind 1) One South Church 2) Bank of America Plaza 3) Pima County Legal Services Building; and 4) 5151 E. Broadway.

The Opus on 4th will be tied for 17th with the currently vacant Hotel Arizona.

Take my word unofficially, but rumor is that 75 W. Broadway will not be 20 floors, but closer to 13. The structure/facade looks the same, but with new colors.

Over a year ago, the Casino/Hotel project was once scoped to be 14 total floors. Unfortunately, the economy changed and interest rates went up. But just wanted to let you all know they were thinking big. It is no secret they may phase out with casino first, hotel second.

Remember those mysterious drawings of the Ronstadt project several months ago? I dug into it at the time...and a sub- did reveal that there was conversation to make one of the structures Tucson's tallest. They were still waiting for FTA approvals, etc. The project hasn't died...yet.

What is going on with 75 E Broadway at 13 stories and a new color scheme. I thought the project was dead. I haven't seen or heard about any renderings?

[southtucsonboy77]

A “new” RFP was sent out a few months ago. I’ll go out on a limb and say that the address won’t be off of Broadway, but on Scott.

[AZ71]

A “new” RFP was sent out a few months ago. I’ll go out on a limb and say that the address won’t be off of Broadway, but on Scott.

How weird. Maybe they're trying to divide the lot for two small structures? What a waste of really the last plot to build something substantial.

[southtucsonboy77]

No, it's just one development. This site has had a history for the size and scale of the building being scoped anywhere from 9 floors to 19 or 20 floors. I'm just saying maaaaaybe the latest proposal has landed at 13 floors...and there's a possibility the entrance and/or address will be moved to the west side of the lot off of Scott.

[High Plains Drifter]

Rep. Grijalva Announces Historic $50 Million HUD Grant to Revitalize Thrive in the ‘05 Neighborhood in Tucson

The City of Tucson will use the funds to revitalize the Thrive in the ‘05 neighborhood located within miles from Tucson’s downtown core and along the area of original settlement with the Pascua Yaqui Tribe.

https://grijalva.house.gov/rep-grijalva-announces-historic-50-million-hud-grant-to-revitalize-thrive-in-the-05-neighborhood-in-tucson//



https://i.imgur.com/xe76TpI.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/CiZd3L4.png

[High Plains Drifter]

Apartments planned linked to Welcome Diner

On Broadway the Welcome Diner closed during the COVID pandemic, now it’s closed as the owner plans a major expansion of the diner and a large mixed development on and near the site of the old Tucson Volvo dealership.

https://www.kgun9.com/news/local-news/apartments-planned-linked-to-welcome-diner



https://ewscripps.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/f0df3c4/2147483647/strip/true/crop/1440x810+0+135/resize/1280x720!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fewscripps-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2F14%2F42%2F7edb082141618b19aee688611656%2F6pa28072523-00-00-36-14-still001.jpg

https://ewscripps.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/de919ff/2147483647/strip/true/crop/1440x810+0+90/resize/1280x720!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fewscripps-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2F22%2F84%2F76fb0e30465e9af1b6ea2a4b373d%2F6pa28072523-00-00-30-08-still002.jpg

[High Plains Drifter]

MicroStar Logistics Expands Network of Keg and Pallet Quality Centers With New Tucson, Arizona Facility

MicroStar is in the process of securing 20 acres for the new 270,000 square-foot building at the Rita Ranch Commerce Center in Tucson.

https://realestatedaily-news.com/microstar-logistics-expands-network-of-keg-and-pallet-quality-centers-with-new-tucson-arizona-facility/

https://microstarlogistics.com/



https://i.imgur.com/TmhHHjy.jpg

[High Plains Drifter]

New affordable housing reviving neglected Sleepy Hollow trailer park

The redevelopment has been in the works for 8 years and will cover two city blocks in the distressed Miracle Mile district

https://azluminaria.org/2023/07/26/new-affordable-housing-reviving-neglected-sleepy-hollow-trailer-park/



https://i0.wp.com/azluminaria.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/DJI_0624.jpg?resize=1024%2C739&ssl=1

[High Plains Drifter]

I'm done here guys. I can't have my stuff continually lifted from here for someone's social media feed when they don't bother to make any contributions to this forum. Below is but one example.

Not mad, just done. Thanks and good luck.



https://i.imgur.com/Fk7inKo.png

[Obadno]

I'm done here guys. I can't have my stuff continually lifted from here for someone's social media feed when they don't bother to make any contributions to this forum. Below is but one example.

Not mad, just done. Thanks and good luck.



Thats annoying for sure but it is a public forum. We have joked for years about ABC and Phx Bizz Journal lifting our work right out of here for articles for years. Hell I think New Times even quoted us

[CrestedSaguaro]

I'm not exactly sure what Tucson Progress is, but there's really no proof they lifted the information from here. Other media outlets most likely have the same access to the same sources we get our info from. As Obadno said, it's a common inside joke that news is lifted from our posts. I've often seen it happen from my posts. But again, there's really no proof of that.

I'd hate to see you leave as you provide a lot of good information on Tucson development. Maybe write something to Tuscon Progress instead and inquire where they pulled their info? Maybe they might be honest and credit you, maybe not. But I hope you don't leave our forum due to an outside issue unrelated to SSP :(

[AZ71]

I don't get it. Didn't you take it from Grijalva's press release and the imagery from the Thrive in the '05 plan? https://thriveinthe05.tucsonaz.gov/pages/plan

Didn't you do the same thing with your Welcome Diner posting? Taken from the news station and those images were displayed at the Rio Nuevo public meeting.

Bummer to see you go, but we all share links and images we find elsewhere.

[Eapiwo]

https://www.google.com/amp/s/www.kold.com/2023/07/29/downtown-tucson-development-is-humming-again-after-pandemic/%3foutputType=amp

Here good ol' Bud Foster discusses a lot of the projects you've all brought up this week.

In short, Ronstadt Center is planning 400 units
75 E Broadway is planning a residential comeback
Volvo site is planning residential

Bud also mentioned that about half a block from 75 E Broadway, an affordable housing project is taking off as well. Though, I'm not sure which project that is, maybe one that flew under our radars.

There was no mention of the Gateway project

By the end of all these projects, assuming most can get off the ground, Tucson will really have a good new 2,000 apartments downtown on the conservative side and that's on top of the 1k that were built more recently. It'll finally give us the population density a city center needs to feel like it's a genuine big city. Personally, I'm excited too since I work downtown and would love an apartment there.

Off topic, but Tucson's local news stations are by far the worst in the world. They edit interviews atrociously, are unable to stay on point, and miss out important details. A high school English class could deliver better news stories. It's pretty inaccurate to say development downtown has been dead in the water when there's a tower crane building Opus, the Bautista is getting started, the hotel on north Grenada is getting converted to apartments, the Leo Kent hotel just opened, and the long abandoned arizona hotel is being gutted. Even the Union on 6th was started and completed in the time KOLD says nothing happened downtown.

[Ted Lyons]

https://www.google.com/amp/s/www.kold.com/2023/07/29/downtown-tucson-development-is-humming-again-after-pandemic/%3foutputType=amp

Here good ol' Bud Foster discusses a lot of the projects you've all brought up this week.

In short, Ronstadt Center is planning 400 units
75 E Broadway is planning a residential comeback
Volvo site is planning residential

Bud also mentioned that about half a block from 75 E Broadway, an affordable housing project is taking off as well. Though, I'm not sure which project that is, maybe one that flew under our radars.

There was no mention of the Gateway project

By the end of all these projects, assuming most can get off the ground, Tucson will really have a good new 2,000 apartments downtown on the conservative side and that's on top of the 1k that were built more recently. It'll finally give us the population density a city center needs to feel like it's a genuine big city. Personally, I'm excited too since I work downtown and would love an apartment there.

Off topic, but Tucson's local news stations are by far the worst in the world. They edit interviews atrociously, are unable to stay on point, and miss out important details. A high school English class could deliver better news stories. It's pretty inaccurate to say development downtown has been dead in the water when there's a tower crane building Opus, the Bautista is getting started, the hotel on north Grenada is getting converted to apartments, the Leo Kent hotel just opened, and the long abandoned arizona hotel is being gutted. Even the Union on 6th was started and completed in the time KOLD says nothing happened downtown.

I was curious about that affordable housing passage, too. It could be the proposed addition to the Westerner at Broadway and Stone.

[AZ71]

https://www.google.com/amp/s/www.kold.com/2023/07/29/downtown-tucson-development-is-humming-again-after-pandemic/%3foutputType=amp

Here good ol' Bud Foster discusses a lot of the projects you've all brought up this week.

In short, Ronstadt Center is planning 400 units
75 E Broadway is planning a residential comeback
Volvo site is planning residential

Bud also mentioned that about half a block from 75 E Broadway, an affordable housing project is taking off as well. Though, I'm not sure which project that is, maybe one that flew under our radars.

There was no mention of the Gateway project

By the end of all these projects, assuming most can get off the ground, Tucson will really have a good new 2,000 apartments downtown on the conservative side and that's on top of the 1k that were built more recently. It'll finally give us the population density a city center needs to feel like it's a genuine big city. Personally, I'm excited too since I work downtown and would love an apartment there.

Off topic, but Tucson's local news stations are by far the worst in the world. They edit interviews atrociously, are unable to stay on point, and miss out important details. A high school English class could deliver better news stories. It's pretty inaccurate to say development downtown has been dead in the water when there's a tower crane building Opus, the Bautista is getting started, the hotel on north Grenada is getting converted to apartments, the Leo Kent hotel just opened, and the long abandoned arizona hotel is being gutted. Even the Union on 6th was started and completed in the time KOLD says nothing happened downtown.

Maybe Bud was talking about that proposed senior tower by HSL that's supposed to be built between the Hotel Arizona and the The Flin. I think where the old conference room building was torn down? Sure is a skinny lot though.