Tempe Development Thread

[phoenixwillrise]

The panels only extend over the stands, not over the field itself. Only balls that will hit it are foul balls.

In your haste to answer you must have missed the part where I said foul balls. Foul balls can do a lot of damage so hoping those panels are lexan or something that can take a hard hit.

[Arquitect]

In your haste to answer you must have missed the part where I said foul balls. Foul balls can do a lot of damage so hoping those panels are lexan or something that can take a hard hit.

I have seen perforated metal sheets placed below solar panels in other places for protective reasons. I am sure something similar could be done. Not exactly sure what can be placed above. But with the big investment that is being made to install these structures, I am sure that there must be some protective measure being taken.

[Spitfiredude]

In your haste to answer you must have missed the part where I said foul balls. Foul balls can do a lot of damage so hoping those panels are lexan or something that can take a hard hit.

Whoops yeah, definitely missed that. Sorry. My bad. LoL

[dtnphx]

Whoops yeah, definitely missed that. Sorry. My bad. LoL

Nuthin' worse than foul balls. :yuck:

[phxSUNSfan]

Great pictures of McCord Hall in the BizJournal:

http://www.bizjournals.com/phoenix/news/2013/08/20/asus-wp-carey-school-opens-new.html?s=image_gallery

[DevilsRider]

Great pictures of McCord Hall in the BizJournal:

http://www.bizjournals.com/phoenix/news/2013/08/20/asus-wp-carey-school-opens-new.html?s=image_gallery

Wow; I love how this building turned out. I remember taking a couple classes in the old business building; it was always cramped and stuffy-feeling. What a great addition to the campus!

[MegaBass]

Great pictures of McCord Hall in the BizJournal:

http://www.bizjournals.com/phoenix/news/2013/08/20/asus-wp-carey-school-opens-new.html?s=image_gallery

Whoa tablets as room schedules? Fancy...

Sun Devil Fitness Complex Expansion photos (https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10151809850433713.1073741826.36670128712&type=1)

[phxSUNSfan]

Wow; I love how this building turned out. I remember taking a couple classes in the old business building; it was always cramped and stuffy-feeling. What a great addition to the campus!

It does look great, even the old business building (BA) has been renovated. I believe they completely renovated the interior space including offices and classrooms. They removed asbestos from the building and installed new carpeting and other flooring.

[Classical in Phoenix]

Nuthin' worse than foul balls. :yuck:

Blue Balls

[RichTempe]

Here are some pics I took of the PowerParasols by the MU when I was on the ASU campus this afternoon. Looks like they're making good progress:

http://imageshack.us/a/img4/61/hiv8.jpg

http://imageshack.us/a/img855/3949/idk2.jpg

http://imageshack.us/a/img836/6838/33ow.jpg

[phxSUNSfan]

Here are some pics I took of the PowerParasols by the MU when I was on the ASU campus this afternoon. Looks like they're making good progress.

Not sure I like it. It looks very imposing although it provides plenty of shade and, of course, electricy. I'm thinking the power parasols over Gammage PKWY will look similarly imposing and out-of-place.

[DevilsRider]

Not sure I like it. It looks very imposing although it provides plenty of shade and, of course, electricy. I'm thinking the power parasols over Gammage PKWY will look similarly imposing and out-of-place.

Yeah, they don't look that great, but I think their benefits definitely outweigh the imposing looks. Back when I was a student, I would plan my routes between classes through any shady area or building (for the a/c), even if it was a longer route, and if ASU covered more of their walkways like this, they'd get a lot more self-generated electricity AND give their students a much more pleasant walk on sunny days :tup:

[HooverDam]

are they going to leave the weird pringle shaped things up? It looks really crowded and weird with both them and the power parasols.

[dtnphx]

No likee.

[ASUSunDevil]

The white pillars look bad but the remaining pringles make it look extra bad. Hopefully this will look better when its finished, right now it looks way too busy.

[RichTempe]

The white pillars look bad but the remaining pringles make it look extra bad. Hopefully this will look better when its finished, right now it looks way too busy.

It looks better in person (I think) than the pictures show, but it still is an imposing structure with a lot going on.

[MegaBass]

It looks better in person (I think) than the pictures show, but it still is an imposing structure with a lot going on.

Did you see any of the enhancements: bicycle valet areas; new bicycle rack types and locations; locked skateboard racks; and overnight golf cart charging and parking areas? So much for walk-free zone from looking at the photos.

[MegaBass]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/BSDbwjHCYAAyfqk.jpg

Another vantage point south of Cady Fountain. (source (https://twitter.com/ChuckBarbee1/status/369536796540952577/photo/1))

[phxSUNSfan]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/BSDbwjHCYAAyfqk.jpg

Another vantage point south of Cady Fountain. (source (https://twitter.com/ChuckBarbee1/status/369536796540952577/photo/1))

From this angle is looks much better. If they removed the pringles it would help the larger structure look less cluttered for sure. They need more plants and trees around the structure which would make the power parasols look more like ramadas in an arboretum.

[Obadno]

I'm sorry, I like solar and all but that just looks trerrible.

Solar is "clean" energy but it is still an industrial piece of infrastructure. This is like the turn of the century when they coverd things in electric lights.

That part of campus looked great, keep the solar in the parking lots, over the roads and on the roofs. But dont cover up the center of campus.:yuck::yuck::yuck:

[ASUSunDevil]

That part of campus looked great, keep the solar in the parking lots, over the roads and on the roofs. But dont cover up the center of campus.:yuck::yuck::yuck:

Exactly.

[ASUSunDevil]

The fencing has gone up around Marina Heights as well as the Oliver McMillan project. Marina Heights looks like the biggest construction site of all time, as it should. Not much going on at Hayden Ferry 3, hopefully that changes soon.

[ASUSunDevil]

By Dianna M. Náñez
The Republic | azcentral.com
Fri Aug 23, 2013 10:57 PM
Tempe has paved the way for a tax-incentive agreement on a conference-center development that Arizona State University wants to build as part of a sprawling commercial project in downtown.

ASU has targeted the southeastern corner of University Drive and Mill Avenue for a high-end development. Tempe leaders have long rallied for such a development.

Before the Great Recession, several developers had proposed hotel-conference centers for Tempe’s Mill Avenue District. The deals, including a $500 million mixed-use project at the site currently under consideration, died when the economy tanked.

On Thursday, the Tempe City Council unanimously approved a state-mandated “notice of intent” to enter into a retail-development tax-incentive agreement for a conference center at University and Mill. The state requires cities to provide the notice at least 14 days before OK’ing an agreement.

In June, the Arizona Board of Regents, which owns the land, approved negotiations for leasing it to a private corporation, USA Place LLC.

The 10-acre site, which includes a parking lot and a Chili’s restaurant and was home to a Tower Records, is expected to include a hotel and at least 30,000 square feet of conference-center space. The project also could include a commercial development as well as entertainment space. The target date for construction is 2015.

Tempe officials have said downtown is ripe for a midsize conference center that the city would market to groups and conventions that want to be centrally located, near the university, restaurants and entertainment. While the Phoenix Convention Center has struggled to secure the number of bookings officials originally aimed for, Tempe civic leaders said a smaller center would be boosted by its affordability compared with larger venues and proximity to ASU’s Tempe campus, the nation’s largest college campus by enrollment.

Tax incentives for developers have come under greater scrutiny from residents and watchdog groups wary of big businesses receiving “handouts” that smaller businesses typically do not receive.

“I would look at this as an investment for the future,” Tempe Mayor Mark Mitchell told The Arizona Republic Friday. “Tourism is the second-leading industry in the state, and here’s an opportunity for … the city of Tempe working with Arizona State University … to capture that market.”

The incentive would be tied only to the conference-center portion of the agreement. Among the state mandates for retail-development tax-incentive agreements is a provision requiring the Tempe council to agree by a public vote that without the incentive, the development would not locate in the city.

Tempe spokeswoman Nikki Ripley said a detailed development agreement, which will include more information on the amount of the tax incentive, will come before the council in the coming months. Neither Mitchell nor Ripley had an exact date for the vote.

The state requires cities to schedule votes on incentives as public-hearing items, which must be approved by at least two-thirds of the council.

[phxSUNSfan]

By Dianna M. Náñez
The Republic | azcentral.com
Fri Aug 23, 2013 10:57 PM
Tempe has paved the way for a tax-incentive agreement on a conference-center development that Arizona State University wants to build as part of a sprawling commercial project in downtown.

You would think this project would not need such incentives. The construction is going to be financed with private funding and I don't remember the developers asking for such a deal. In that case, I hope the developers aren't asking for the incentives, and instead the city is offering them as a way to solidify the deal. In any event, the city shouldn't have to offer long-term tax-incentives at this point to a developer within a desirable location. A project incorporating a hotel along with market-rate apartments is going to be well received on Mill Ave.

[Spitfiredude]

You would think this project would not need such incentives. The construction is going to be financed with private funding and I don't remember the developers asking for such a deal. In that case, I hope the developers aren't asking for the incentives, and instead the city is offering them as a way to solidify the deal. In any event, the city shouldn't have to offer long-term tax-incentives at this point to a developer within a desirable location. A project incorporating a hotel along with market-rate apartments is going to be well received on Mill Ave.

I very much agree. No reason to give tax breaks.

[Leo the Dog]

I very much agree. No reason to give tax breaks.

Except for the fact it has remained a strip mall/parking lot for decades.

Offer a tax break to secure a long term revenue generating machine.

[nickw252]

http://i43.tinypic.com/5xss38.jpg

[dtnphx]

And once swallowed by a haboob, you never go back to mere duststorms.

[MegaBass]

Here's a half of the photos I took around the campus last Sunday.

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-x3h0eswL3JI/Uh0Vc45SUKI/AAAAAAAAAYg/h7SPj6thlGU/w648-h484-no/photo+%252815%2529.JPG

Walk-Only Zone sign over by Moeur Hall

https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-wG1gHTjoc-g/Uh0WCKNICTI/AAAAAAAAAa0/VYVfVxR-iKw/w648-h484-no/photo+%252837%2529.JPG

Tobacco/Smoking Free sign that replaced the USG Walk Your Wheels signage

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-v86xOF34Bv8/Uh0WMgtbXUI/AAAAAAAAAck/u95QPBzrOwk/w648-h484-no/photo+%25289%2529.JPG

Construction of card-access bicycle storage by Mary Lou Fulton Teachers College. Also noticed a temporary bike valet east of the MU as the permanent one is being constructed. I did not see anything for the open hoop bike rack south of the MU or vertical bike rack by Wilson Hall and Undergraduate Academic Services Building.

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-T8dFOuzn0OA/Uh0WNxkyyxI/AAAAAAAAAc4/kfVCNC08x0U/w648-h484-no/photo+%252823%2529.JPG

New Hayden Library generator?

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-Wk39VZjVPnc/Uh0VcuXPuaI/AAAAAAAAAYY/7slxEBvS-eg/w648-h484-no/photo+%252818%2529.JPG

Gammage Parkway Power Parasol underway

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-jOFLlNLTTxA/Uh0VcgT7FwI/AAAAAAAAAYc/5bA5BLJkhL8/w648-h484-no/photo+%252816%2529.JPG

Lot 11 panels by Lyceum Theater

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-oJ-hekFLmgE/Uh0V_1bewZI/AAAAAAAAAaU/iFuqYk9ASHU/w648-h484-no/photo+%252833%2529.JPG

Cady Mall looking south with Walk Zone permanent bollards

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-stURuF7fm9s/Uh0WBeCcxBI/AAAAAAAAAas/FtsoexQVahY/w648-h484-no/photo+%252835%2529.JPG

Orange Mall looking east

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-wiHVPJAerpc/Uh0WB3xiWuI/AAAAAAAAAa4/P6SUSwSoObA/w648-h484-no/photo+%252836%2529.JPG

Cady Mall looking northeast

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-ZMNOLsyrqBM/Uh0WF776UNI/AAAAAAAAAbc/slU2-7Rq3zQ/w648-h484-no/photo+%252842%2529.JPG

Orange Mall looking west

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-MzMT2KShhtU/Uh0WIR4wRrI/AAAAAAAAAb8/ITlEQFMP3pM/w648-h484-no/photo+%252845%2529.JPG

Pringles and Cady Mall Power Parasol

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-49urBX_8Zck/Uh0WC17TKTI/AAAAAAAAAbA/YgFhMJuAFgI/w648-h484-no/photo+%252838%2529.JPG

College Avenue Commons

https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-k1ejk15nZzw/Uh0WJVDm_rI/AAAAAAAAAcI/E625vDb6p40/w648-h484-no/photo+%252846%2529.JPG

Upclose of CAC from atop the Fulton/College Avenue Garage.

[phxSUNSfan]

Pringles and Cady Mall Power Parasol

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-MzMT2KShhtU/Uh0WIR4wRrI/AAAAAAAAAb8/ITlEQFMP3pM/w648-h484-no/photo+%252845%2529.JPG

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-oJ-hekFLmgE/Uh0V_1bewZI/AAAAAAAAAaU/iFuqYk9ASHU/w648-h484-no/photo+%252833%2529.JPG

Ok, angles do make a difference because these shots of the pringles under the parasol looks very cool! In more ways than one; the shade provided by the structure with the trees and the pringles is incredible and will make walking and being outside much more pleasant during the warmer months! I hope LEDs light these things up at night! That would look interesting.

Now I want to see what the Gammage Pkwy parasol will look like. What will be under the parasol where the grass strip and trees were? Will they be replanting trees and plants that only need some sun but do best in the shade? ASU has an opportunity to really make that entrance unique—unlike any college campus in the country. I love the dedication to solar and shade. Block 12 (College Commons) coming along nicely.

[MegaBass]

Now I want to see what the Gammage Pkwy parasol will look like. What will be under the parasol where the grass strip and trees were? Will they be replanting trees and plants that only need some sun but do best in the shade? ASU has an opportunity to really make that entrance unique—unlike any college campus in the country. I love the dedication to solar and shade. Block 12 (College Commons) coming along nicely.

I only recall about three or four trees that they removed. Hard to tell from the renderings if there will be any trees aside from grass.

Also I forgot to mention there was a sign posted west of Moeur Hall for a Power Parasol that's not listed on ASU solar installation plan this year. My guess is that it is possibly to shade the undercovered benches by the Farmer Building. Not really necessary aside from that unless the mature trees around that area are subject to being cut down.

[PHX31]

I think it is a good idea that there are walk only zones on the ASU campus. There are several major corridors and malls that are jam packed at certain times of the day when classes are getting out. When I went to ASU I remember everyone being pissed that there always seemed to be a delivery truck or some facilities vehicle driving down the sidewalks nearly running over everyone. Plus, the bikers and skateboarders were always pretty reckless. I rode my bike everywhere on campus at all times of day, I was probably included in with the reckless bikers, although it was hard to ride a bike with all of the peds.

Not sure I like all of the power parasols, especially if any trees have to be sacrificed for any reason.

Thanks for the pics, and keep them coming.

[phxSUNSfan]

Not sure I like all of the power parasols, especially if any trees have to be sacrificed for any reason.

Couldn't agree with you more here...no trees, especially large trees, should be sacrificed for the power parasols. Many of the trees on ASU's campus are not native species (which is normal for a campus that is considered an arboretum) and many probably will do well with shade.

[phxSUNSfan]

Did ASU update the entrance to the Hayden Staircase? The lattice work and ramada? It looks like they painted it or resurfaced it and replanted the same variety of vine. That "generator", which looks like a vent to me, may have always been there, but now it looks like the Book Drop is in a different location. If not, then whatever they did makes the whole thing look so much better. When that plant grows back, it will look great.

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-T8dFOuzn0OA/Uh0WNxkyyxI/AAAAAAAAAc4/kfVCNC08x0U/w648-h484-no/photo+%252823%2529.JPG

I can't tell from this older picture if there was a generator (or more likely, a vent) for Hayden:

http://0.tqn.com/d/collegeapps/1/0/S/_/-/-/hayden-library-asu.jpg

[PHX31]

/\ The bougainvilleas probably died back in the freezes we had last year (and/or 2011) and is just growing back. The trellis does look painted.

[Leo the Dog]

/\ The bougainvilleas probably died back in the freezes we had last year (and/or 2011) and is just growing back. The trellis does look painted.

Back in my ASU days I always loved walking by those bougainvilleas. What an awesome plant for Phoenix, the hotter it is the more they flourish! Too bad the freeze got them last year.

[Spitfiredude]

State Farm has received heavy construction equipment on site and trailers/water tanks, etc. Work seems like it will be progressing quickly on this project. Any reason the site takes up all of Lot 59N? It extends all the way to Rural Road.

HFL 3 has stalled. I don't know why. It has been like this for about 3 weeks now. Anyone have info on this?

Also, Milk and Honey (grocery/convenience below W6) has stalled (again). This is the third time this project has stalled. I mentioned in June that the owner had told people the project would be finished in 60 days. It has been passed this. I am assuming they have financial troubles.

[MegaBass]

Did ASU update the entrance to the Hayden Staircase? The lattice work and ramada? It looks like they painted it or resurfaced it and replanted the same variety of vine. That "generator", which looks like a vent to me, may have always been there, but now it looks like the Book Drop is in a different location. If not, then whatever they did makes the whole thing look so much better. When that plant grows back, it will look great.

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-T8dFOuzn0OA/Uh0WNxkyyxI/AAAAAAAAAc4/kfVCNC08x0U/w648-h484-no/photo+%252823%2529.JPG

I can't tell from this older picture if there was a generator (or more likely, a vent) for Hayden:

http://0.tqn.com/d/collegeapps/1/0/S/_/-/-/hayden-library-asu.jpg

https://lib.asu.edu/sites/default/files/haydenstep.jpg

No as you can see from this photo the trellis on both ends are leveled at same height and ends at the elevator.

https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-_wXAGaypGh4/Uh0V--Dk_QI/AAAAAAAAAaQ/0GEvO5C7o1E/w662-h495-no/photo+%252832%2529.JPG

I'm positive the vent is new since I was working at Wilson Hall this summer during its construction.

[FitnessPower]

http://i43.tinypic.com/5xss38.jpg

Great shot! :tup:

[DevilsRider]

Not as cool as the airplane shot showing Tempe getting devoured, but this was a shot from my apartment during the worst of it.You can just see the outline of 'A' Mountain behind the white power pole in the middle.

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7298/9614464305_3d22bdbf35_b.jpg

[MegaBass]

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-2zxwqoqzHxQ/Uh0V6IGa4wI/AAAAAAAAAZQ/8eDBvS4bG9k/w662-h495-no/photo+%252825%2529.JPG

Lot 58 panels

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-dh5fr_7mTFk/Uh0V_4FS54I/AAAAAAAAAag/MC6pwLhWIwU/w662-h495-no/photo+%252831%2529.JPG

Hub on Campus/ University House

https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-sEdizUR4SUQ/Uh0V9N3IMoI/AAAAAAAAAaA/qM1g8N38eFE/w662-h495-no/photo+%252829%2529.JPG

Manzy

https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-X8YCudZ_zbA/Uh0V88Ud-kI/AAAAAAAAAZs/VPzfBOJBt80/w662-h495-no/photo+%252828%2529.JPG

Lot 41/ Law panels

https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-JfGrnJRCkvc/Uh0WKQVSF8I/AAAAAAAAAcQ/WSFTTPA4kA8/w662-h495-no/photo+%252848%2529.JPG

Lemon Street access road

https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-HWoJZtoevpE/Uh0V6DcYTKI/AAAAAAAAAZM/h1qLtGhlzxI/w662-h495-no/photo+%252826%2529.JPG

https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-AnscJDLR59g/Uh0WMphh9SI/AAAAAAAAAcs/tovvqM1la8g/w662-h495-no/photo+%252850%2529.JPG

I noticed a few of the residential halls have Maroon & Gold Fight Song lyrics on their windows.

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-2RUnhogTACg/Uh0WD3NyDtI/AAAAAAAAAbE/5OW-dbl9uNA/w662-h495-no/photo+%252839%2529.JPG

McCord Hall

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ID7WiTWfsNA/Uh0WJeXFO5I/AAAAAAAAAcE/cnMP9dCkpT4/w662-h495-no/photo+%252847%2529.JPG

Sun Devil Fitness Complex addition

https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-75l5qiUu6GY/Uh0WFHlzMMI/AAAAAAAAAbg/PCw9KgIZn-Q/w662-h495-no/photo+%252841%2529.JPG

Lot 19 panels

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-ex5NX3-McZ8/Uh7TJT1lJqI/AAAAAAAAAds/NhlOTxP4O08/w648-h484-no/photo.JPG

Hayden Library lower level (more photos (https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.603770299653622.1073741828.147353931961930&type=3))

[Leo the Dog]

Awesome photo update! I really appreciate these bc I can't see it first hand.

[Jjs5056]

Is there an entrance to the fitness center off Apache?

Though there were several missed opportunities along the way (like lack of retail in any of the new dorms west of Rural to complement Vista) and questionable taste level (like creating a park on the NWC of Apache/Rural, or the sea of gray jail-like structures), taking the curve off Mill onto Apache to McClintock is really amazing when you consider what this corridor looked like 5 years ago.

I hope the answer to my question is yes- would really complete the new frontage in that area with the new police station and Villas across the street.

[Jjs5056]

Also, I have tried so hard to not be nauseated every time I see these horrific solar structures going up everywhere, but I just can't... I understand the benefits, I really do. And, great for ASU taking a stand for sustainable practices. But, Christ, these things are offensive and some of the ugliest structures I have ever seen. I get claustrophobic just looking at these photos of the pringles crammed in under the one set by the MU.

I know my priorities are warped, but it makes me so sad to think of the sight lines near Gammage and attractive landscaping being destroyed for more. Of all the great projects of ASU's that were bankrupted over the years, why did this have to make it through?

I don't expect anyone to agree, but I also couldn't hold back the typing as more and more pics are posted each day.

I will say the ones over lot 59 are fantastic. The flowers and posters are really great-looking. The rest seem so rushed and chaotic in comparison.

[phxSUNSfan]

Is there an entrance to the fitness center off Apache?

I believe there is, and that part of the SRC looks great. There is a huge exterior glass wall along Apache and you can see into the building.

[MegaBass]

ASU Business-Finance tweeted a couple of photos (https://twitter.com/asuevpcfo)

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/BTRRtuSIcAAva-t.jpg

Farrington Softball Stadium panels

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/BTREX5oIUAADbya.jpg

College Avenue Commons

[Spitfiredude]

Looks like Milk and Honey is finishing its space. I recently talked with construction workers and they said its weeks away from opening.

AMC Theaters has started renovating the old MadCap space. I have seen multiple contractors there this week renovating the space. I have been waiting for this since they said they would open this fall.

HFL 3 is still in a stall. No word on that project, but there are several dirt hills with no equipment on site.

Lot 59N is almost completely torn up. There is practically only a dirt pad at the site of Marina Heights :tup:

The apartment complex project by TCA is progressing slowly but surely.

[azsunsurfer]

Interestingly enough I noticed that the industrial/ quary land to the east of Tempe Marketplace now has a sign from CBRE advertising it for sale as a "mixed-use" site. There is even a pretty large sign seen from the 202 101 interchage. I wonder if the city/ feds will offer superfund site assistance to help redevelop that land. That's how Tempe Marketplace happened next door- a lot of years of environmental remediation.

Also I noticed some heavy equipment at the site of Liberty Center near Priest and the 202. Looks like they are starting some site work there.

[combusean]

Designer of Tempe's Marina Heights aiming for 'work of art' (http://www.azcentral.com/community/tempe/articles/20130904tempe-marina-heights-sky-high-views-aid-designer.html)

By Dianna M. Náñez
The Republic | azcentral.com
Fri Sep 6, 2013 9:44 AM

Working in a high-rise at Tempe Town Lake gave architect Mike Davis a bird’s-eye view of the waterfront and an insider’s perspective on developing it.

Davis says it’s his eye for the imaginative and mind for math that scored his Tempe-based architectural design firm the contract to craft Marina Heights, a massive office development on the lake’s southern shore that will house a State Farm regional headquarters.

“I’m a designer that has a pen in one hand and a calculator in the other,” Davis said. “Beauty is one thing, (but) you’ve got to get it built.”

That practical mindset doesn’t stop Davis from recognizing the aesthetics of Marina Heights’ sky-and-water-theme design.

“It’s a work of art,” he said of the project.

Davis heralded the selection of a local firm for the design contract as significant. Billed as the largest office complex in Arizona to date, Marina Heights should be a “community icon,” not just another building, he said.

Marina Heights will span 20 acres along Rio Salado Parkway from Packard Drive to just east of the Bridgeview at Hayden Ferry Lakeside condominiums near Mill Avenue, replacing what is mostly vacant land and parking lots with five buildings ranging from six to 16 stories.

“I think with the varying heights of the buildings, it’s going to have a beautiful approach,” Davis said. “It’s not just a big stack of boxes.”

The sprawling 2 million-square-foot, $600 million development, on which construction started in August, is expected to dramatically change the Tempe skyline and job market. State Farm has begun hiring for the estimated 900 jobs that will be added to the insurance giant’s existing Valley workforce of about 2,100.

The homegrown “Davis” architect firm, housed in the Hayden Ferry Lakeside complex on the southern side of the lake, unveiled stunning renderings of the complex in August.

Civic and business leaders heralded the project at an August celebration to commemorate the design.

“I was at the Marina Heights kickoff that morning … (and) what I saw was pretty incredible,” Tempe City Councilman Corey Woods said.

Digitally created images illustrated what the completed project would look like.

“Later, I gave a presentation to the Kiwanis Club of Tempe,” Woods said. “The crowd was very wowed by what they saw.”

Tempe leaders have long sought to attract construction on the underdeveloped lake property. The lake opened in 1999 and initially attracted high-profile development. When the recession hit, most construction froze.

“It is very important that this happens in Tempe,” Woods said. “This council and the council that preceded ours had a big vision for the Rio Salado corridor and Tempe Town Lake, and that vision is coming to fruition.”

State Farm could have chosen any site in the country but selected Tempe because of the city’s amenities, Woods says.

“We are a very centrally located city, surrounded by freeways, minutes from the airport and minutes from ASU,” he said. “The culture and residents and the vibrancy and livability are why State Farm chose to locate this project in our city.”

Davis said he understands why some consider the landmark development a testament to Tempe being the little city that could.

Town Lake has become a “nice postcard for the Valley,” he said. “Tempe for a long time has really been kind of our (Valley’s) urban place.”

Marina Heights and the State Farm hub are a “powerful statement and further attention-getter to attract other companies,” Davis said.

Davis said his team had the desert and Salt River in mind when they drafted the design.

“I began this thing around the idea that water is very precious in the desert,” he said. “We’ve got this whole Salt River watershed. Town Lake … has created this beautiful recreation amenity.”

Davis wanted a design that would bring to mind blue waters and blue skies.

“The buildings there are made in a beautiful semi-transparent glass, they effectively look like the sky, white and blue,” he said. “The metaphor of the buildings is they are essentially clouds.”

Tempe residents can expect the project to expand upon their hometown’s urban reputation, Davis said.

“It’s one of the things I’m most excited about,” he said. “I’ve been doing this for 36 years, and I’ve always been particularly fascinated with infill and urban development.”

The project may see some push back during construction, as expansive projects that change a skyline and community often will, but Davis believes the residents realize the benefits at stake.

“Certainly there’s other big tracks of land in the Valley (State Farm could have selected),” he said.

Town Lake landed the project because of its “proximity to downtown Tempe and ASU,” he said, adding that Marina Heights illustrates the city’s potential for future growth and development.

Construction timeline

>> August: Workers began preparing the site for a 19-acre, two-level, below-grade parking structure.

>> Mid-2015: Complete a nine-story 370,000-square-foot building.

>> Fall 2015: Complete a 16-story 600,000-square-foot building.

>> End 2015: Complete a six-story 250,000-square-foot building.

>> Summer 2016: Complete nine-story 365,000-square-foot building with an above-grade parking structure.

>> January 2017: Complete 11-story 440,000-square-foot building with an above-grade parking structure.

[HX_Guy]

Ooooh shiney... :D

http://www.nitnelav.com/marinaheights.jpg

[MegaBass]

Is there an entrance to the fitness center off Apache?

It didn't appear that there was one off Apache. Here's a video tour of the newly expanded Sun Devil Fitness Complex (http://vimeo.com/73803179).

[ASUSunDevil]

Ooooh shiney... :D

http://www.nitnelav.com/marinaheights.jpg

EPIC! :tup:

[SunDevil]

Ooooh shiney... :D

[img]http://www.nitnelav.com/marinaheights.jpg[img]

Will the FAA allow such a reflective surface in that location, might blind pilots or something.

[Spitfiredude]

I would say the entire MH project site is about 55% site dirt at this point. Only about 45% of the site is still asphalt. Looking to progress quickly

[Jjs5056]

Roads have finally opened up near College so went on a drive today. The new Marriott is a great addition to that part of downtown- the ground floor restaurant looks ready for business, and it is clear there a fee additional retail spots added to the inventory of space from the existing garage. Am hoping the guaranteed traffic from the hotel itself will bring in some potential tenants, as this area could really use the increased foot traffic to start connecting College and Mill. The Tempe Transportation Center across the street is another great asset.

Unfortunately, the design leaves a lot to be desired- the stucco trend continues, making it look horribly cheap looking, and at the very least, more vibrant colors could've been chosen as the browns and oranges force the structure to blend into the natural surroundings.

Block 12 is making progress. Wish it was a couple floors higher or that another phase was completed in conjunction as the rest of the plot is in desperate need of development. But, in isolation, it is great that at least a part of this dead zone is being activated and, in conjunction with the massive amount of retail across the street at Hub, should help College move closer toward fulfilling its potential of being a secondary urban corridor to Mill. At least one spot at Hub is being transformed into a sandwich shop... I think we will see a good deal of that retail space leased, which will be exciting for expanding downtown Eastward.

Additionally, as feared, the solar panels going up at Gammage look horrible and they have completely gutted that wonderful landscaped median. :(

Some questions:
1) when can we expect groundbreaking at USA place? The hotel and phase one are set for a Q4 opening (2014), IIRC, so shouldnt this happen rather quickly?
2) should we be worried about the 2 important residential developments planned for downtown- Lofts at Hayden Ferry and Hanover?

[PHX31]

Is this the landscaped median that you are talking about?

http://i74.photobucket.com/albums/i265/phxrep/Screenshot_2013-09-08-08-57-21.png (http://s74.photobucket.com/user/phxrep/media/Screenshot_2013-09-08-08-57-21.png.html)

I don't think it is that great. Just grass and a few random trees that aren't anything special. It's not like it is/was like some of the great landscaped areas on campus.

[Jjs5056]

I was just going to agree that it wasn't anything special, and realized I called it "wonderful" in my last post... That was definitely overdramatic. But, I still think it's a shame that they are tearing down trees and greenery for these strcutures.

The Gammage area of campus is one of the few that looked "complete." It had nice views, with landscaping, interesting architecture.... No dirt lots, parking lots... I don't think these add anything aesthetically; rather, they add a kind of chaotic/hodge podge feel to the area.

[PHX31]

What did they do with the grass? Is it still there and they just got rid of the trees?

[Obadno]

I am really bummed about the solar panels, campus had only been improving over the last several years but these new structures look horrible.

They look extremely industrial and I don't like them at all, it was a bad decision by the school and I predict they will spend a lot of money to take them down or replace them with more attractive designs in a few years.

It makes ASU look cheap not collegiate at all.

[MegaBass]

What did they do with the grass? Is it still there and they just got rid of the trees?

Everything was gone when I drove by and took photos around the campus.

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ej6qT5eIH5M/UizfsmwLDHI/AAAAAAAAAfA/x3Mbyqj6ntU/w615-h527-no/untitled1.PNG

https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-X3I7SbBpaZA/Uizfsl1-BiI/AAAAAAAAAfI/IDxCkUN1imE/w615-h527-no/untitled.PNG

https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-411cr1Y3-Mo/UizfstgS7hI/AAAAAAAAAfE/p7MrzVszv6o/w616-h527-no/untitled2.PNG

[Jjs5056]

I am really bummed about the solar panels, campus had only been improving over the last several years but these new structures look horrible.

They look extremely industrial and I don't like them at all, it was a bad decision by the school and I predict they will spend a lot of money to take them down or replace them with more attractive designs in a few years.

It makes ASU look cheap not collegiate at all.

Okay, at least I'm not the only one. As I mentioned, the lot 59 ones look great with the sports-themed posters. Everything else looks terrible.

The Gammage ones are a complete shame. As you drive in from the south, the tops of the metal cut off views of all the buildings, and yes - the grass has been completely torn up, not just the trees.

They should have stuck to installing the panels on top of garages and parking lots. If they were going to do it by Gammage, wish they'd done it on the parking lot to the east and done something like lot 59 with vines/flowers and posters of theatrical performances to make them look a little less harsh.

[SunDevil]

aww man! lush lawn and flower beds have been uprooted in a desert in favor of solar panels. I think I'm going to cry.

[MegaBass]

If they were going to do it by Gammage, wish they'd done it on the parking lot to the east and done something like lot 59 with vines/flowers and posters of theatrical performances to make them look a little less harsh.

Well posters of Gammage's performances and landscaping (grass) was illustrated in the renderings... It took a while for them to install Lot 59's Athletics/University posters and vines/flowers. Plus I do recall that they relocated the palms by Lot 59 so why not fuss about that as well? As mentioned both Orange/Cady and Gammage will be fully completed by November (https://asunews.asu.edu/20130613_TempeCampus_PowerParasols).

[Obadno]

Well posters of Gammage's performances and landscaping (grass) was illustrated in the renderings... It took a while for them to install Lot 59's Athletics/University posters and vines/flowers. Plus I do recall that they relocated the palms by Lot 59 so why not fuss about that as well? As mentioned both Orange/Cady and Gammage will be fully completed by November (https://asunews.asu.edu/20130613_TempeCampus_PowerParasols).

Why not fuss? Lot59 is a back parking lot meant for overflow during the school day and sporting events. Not main parkways around a performing arts center, or literally the center of campus.

That rendering looks much nicer than the real thing, because it is a rendering. It is a real shame and I hope they take these things down once solar losses it's "sexy" current appeal.

[Jjs5056]

I understand the importance of these strcutures toward promoting a sustainable campus. I just think some of the choices for where they are located are unfortunate, that's all.

[cygnusloop99]

Took a photo of University House (aka the Hub) at the game on Thursday night,
http://static.panoramio.com/photos/large/96026121.jpg

[PHX31]

Does anyone know what is in the left (eastern) retail spot of University House that has the big crowd in front of it in the above picture? I couldn't tell when I went to the game last week, but it was crowded both times I walked by. It didn't look like a bar.

[ASU Diablo]

Elevator bank :)

[MegaBass]

Arizona's First Steak 'n Shake Coming to Tempe's Mill Avenue (http://blogs.phoenixnewtimes.com/bella/2013/09/arizonas_first_steak_n_shake_c.php)

Steak 'n Shake, the diner-style restaurant chain located primarily in the Midwest and South and known for its Original Steakburger and hand-dipped milkshakes, is making its first foray into Arizona -- by way of Tempe's Mill Avenue.

Founded in Illinois in 1934 by Gus Belt, Steak 'n Shake will open its Tempe location at 699 South Mill Avenue (on the northeast corner of Mill and Seventh Street in the front of the former Borders) in the next few months.

Beloved by the late movie critic Roger Ebert, who said, "If I were on Death Row, my last meal would be from Steak 'n Shake," the restaurant chain has nearly 500 franchised and company-owned locations in 22 states.

Humble Pie group to open Sol Diablo Cantina Kitchen in Tempe next month (http://mouthbysouthwest.com/2013/08/28/humble-pie-group-to-open-sol-diablo-cantina-kitchen-in-tempe-next-month/)

The Humble Pie family of restaurants is unveiling a new concept – Sol Diablo Cantina Kitchen – next month on the southwest corner of College Avenue and Fifth Street (across the street from Sun Devil Stadium) in Tempe.

The Mexican-inspired cantina will be the fifth occupant of the 4,800-square-foot space in six years, following in the footsteps of Fumbles, Dirty Devil, College Dropout, and Boss Hoggs.

The Humble Pie group, which opened Boss Hoggs in September 2012, is adding a 1,500-square-foot sidewalk patio and plans to offer live entertainment.

Other concepts in the Humble Pie family include The Living Room, The Sushi Room, and Chop Steakhouse.

[ASUSunDevil]

Construction just started on the Liberty Center commercial project at the NW corner of Priest and Rio Salado.

[MegaBass]

The Changing Identity Of Mill Avenue (http://www.kjzz.org/content/1309/changing-identity-mill-avenue)

The Hayden Flour Mill in Tempe has been through a lot including multiple fires, one in 1895 and another in 1917. The current incarnation came into being in 1918 and continued operating as a working mill for 80 years. Beginning Saturday, the historic site will become an art gallery of sorts with two new pieces of sculpture.

Tempe’s centerpiece of downtown, Mill Avenue, was not surprisingly named for the flour mill, and it, like its namesake, has gone through multiple metamorphoses.

Mary Ann Miller is the president and CEO of the Tempe Chamber of Commerce.

[MegaBass]

https://scontent-a-dfw.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash3/1230022_560302544018731_1840829800_n.jpg

New vertical bike racks west of Hayden. (photo source (https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=560302544018731&set=a.560302837352035.1073741826.216079255107730&type=1&theater))

[MegaBass]

http://media.tumblr.com/da2b7c1cb1ce1b633aaf2c544e61970f/tumblr_inline_mtc8ydUuwq1rpvwl8.jpg

http://media.tumblr.com/65bd893a2cfe60143d6ed911a1fc0e82/tumblr_inline_mtc8z8RV0g1rpvwl8.jpg

Pitchfork Posts on Farrington Stadium solar panels (http://pitchforkposts.tumblr.com/post/61612519257/have-any-of-you-been-to-farrington-stadium-lately).

[Tito714]

They tore down that abandoned building on Rural and Terrace this morning.

[PhxER]

Upgrading Tempe Town Lake West Dam

The Tempe City Council voted 7-0 Thursday night in favor of a $12.4 million upgrade for the Tempe Town Lake dam.

The current rubber dam burst back in 2010, emptying the lake.
City leaders fixed the problem, but say a steel dam would offer a more permanent solution.

Assistant City Manager Jeff Kulaga says, “It makes sense for our climate. We believe it's for safety, and reliability and meeting the flood water needs and durability; the steel gate with the hydraulic pistons is the right choice for our needs and conditions."

The city says it will be the largest steel dam in the country. Construction should start in the Spring and finish by the end of 2015. If it’s not done by then, the rubber dam, which is on loan, would cost the city $300,000 a month just to rent.

The $12.4 million contract would just fund the steel gates. The next step would be to approve another contract around $22 million for a company to fully build the dam.

The city says it has $4 million dollars on hand as part of the Capital Improvement Plan, and bond money that voters approved a couple years ago. City leaders hope future revenue would come from land sales or leases, however, asking taxpayers for more money could be an option.

Source (http://www.eastvalleytribune.com/local/article_ec7fb122-21b4-11e3-b50e-0019bb2963f4.html)

[MegaBass]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/BUj6zHLCUAAw9J4.jpg

Rendering of the new Tempe Town Lake steel dam. (credit (https://twitter.com/andrewfox10/status/380829924711362560/photo/1))

[ASUSunDevil]

They tore down that abandoned building on Rural and Terrace this morning.

Great news, big time eyesore.

[cygnusloop99]

If that's the VPAC pedestrian bridge in the background then they are going to build the new structure down river separate from the existing one?

[phoenixwillrise]

If that's the VPAC pedestrian bridge in the background then they are going to build the new structure down river separate from the existing one?

Seems that only makes sense unless they want to drain the lake.

[azsunsurfer]

Bad news....it appears the next Development Review Commission meeting will look at a proposal for Southbank....2 buildings at 4 stories each...such a waste.

[azsunsurfer]

Also I noticed that the mutlifamily development at Curry and Scottsdale Rd seems to be back on track. They are finishing clearing the site and there is heavy equipment onsite now too.

[ASUSunDevil]

Why would Hayden Ferry 3 dig up all of the grass, put up fences and then halt construction? Typically, wouldn't they have the green light to start construction before they tore up a landscaped area only to stop everything a week in? :koko:

[azsunsurfer]

My guess it that they either had an anchor tenant lined up who pulled out/ deal fell through or they were hoping that by all these big press releases relating to starting construction that they were going to generate more buzz in the leasing world. Normally you need to have about 80% of the building preleased nowadays before construction lending happens. A company like Ryan has some deep pockets though, at least enough to start.

[Spitfiredude]

Why would Hayden Ferry 3 dig up all of the grass, put up fences and then halt construction? Typically, wouldn't they have the green light to start construction before they tore up a landscaped area only to stop everything a week in? :koko:

Absolutely frustrating. It has been two months since dirt has moved at that spot. On the bright side, Marina Heights is still grading their site. Any news on when USA Place construction might start?

[Spitfiredude]

To all those who have wanted a grocery store in downtown, Milk and Honey is suppose to open in the next month. They're almost completed with the store. We will see how it is! They will sell alcohol according to the guy I talked to out front today.

[MegaBass]

http://cronkitenews.asu.edu/assets/images/13/09/24-sustainability-softball-full.jpg

Solar panels provide shade at Farrington Stadium, home of ASU's softball team, as well as generating enough electricity for the university to declare the facility climate-neutral. Photo by Nicole Tropp of Cronkie News (http://cronkitenewsonline.com/2013/09/sustainability-efforts-by-asu-ua-athletic-departments-win-national-recognition/).

[PHX31]

The support structures are relatively boring and ugly... but shade over the stadium is cool and the solar aspect is great. If only the support structures could have a more inspiring design, it would be awesome.

[dtnphx]

My guess it that they either had an anchor tenant lined up who pulled out/ deal fell through or they were hoping that by all these big press releases relating to starting construction that they were going to generate more buzz in the leasing world. Normally you need to have about 80% of the building preleased nowadays before construction lending happens. A company like Ryan has some deep pockets though, at least enough to start.

No such thing has happened. They didn't break ground technically. It's still listed as proposed. They had to keep the dirt moving during the permit process. They've prepped the space so they're ready to go when the bank gives the OK. Patience.... It takes 2-3 years for a new office building from build to opening. The sky may fall, but it ain't now.

[ciweiss]

It appears they are doing some site work and moving earth west of Priest by the airport.

[MegaBass]

Go inside Tempe's newest hotel, the downtown Residence Inn by Marriott (http://www.bizjournals.com/phoenix/blog/business/2013/09/go-inside-tempes-newest-hotel-the.html?page=2)

The new facility offers a rooftop pool overlooking Sun Devil Stadium and 173 rooms that will range in price from $119 to $279 per night, depending on the season and suite size, Kempton said. Parking is available in the 500-space garage next door, which is owned by the city of Tempe and the hotel leases 150 spaces, Kempton said.
In keeping with the Residence Inn brand, the hotel will not have its own restaurant. However, there is 5,800 square feet of ground-level space Kempton wants to lease to a restaurant that will serve in a similar capacity.
As for designs, the hotel combines modern and contemporary architecture with Alice In Wonderland-themed artwork throughout, a tribute to the former Bandersnatch pub. In fact, Kempton said the hotel is adorned with several pieces of restored metal artwork — which had been in storage — that once decorated Bandersnatch.

[mikeroaz]

Also noticed that they finally razed the empty building on Rural between Terrace and 8th Street--directly across the street from ASU/Rural Light Rail Station. Anyone have any idea what might go there?

[MegaBass]

Also noticed that they finally razed the empty building on Rural between Terrace and 8th Street--directly across the street from ASU/Rural Light Rail Station. Anyone have any idea what might go there?

A mixed-use residential development (http://ww2.tempe.gov/publicbodies/Docs/DevelopmentReviewCommission/SupportingDocuments/DRCr_8th&Rural_021412.pdf) consisting of two phases, which will include two 20-story buildings with urban retail uses on the ground floor.

Per City of Tempe Council Meeting (http://documents.tempe.gov/sirepub/cache/1207/k1bm4o552jpawdnoz1n4n5qh/1720217509272013100025766.PDF)

The Developer is now requesting an additional 6 months to close on the property and has agreed to demolish the
building. Staff is proposing that the developer deposit sufficient funds in escrow by September 1, 2013 to demolish the
building and slabs by November 1, 2013 to obtain a new closing date of March 1, 2014. If the building is not removed by this
date, the Developer would have to close on the property by December 1, 2013.

[Tempe_Duck]

A mixed-use residential development (http://ww2.tempe.gov/publicbodies/Docs/DevelopmentReviewCommission/SupportingDocuments/DRCr_8th&Rural_021412.pdf) consisting of two phases, which will include two 20-story buildings with urban retail uses on the ground floor.

Per City of Tempe Council Meeting (http://documents.tempe.gov/sirepub/cache/1207/k1bm4o552jpawdnoz1n4n5qh/1720217509272013100025766.PDF)

Any renderings of the proposed building?

[PhxER]

This was the rendering back in late 2012

http://cdn.billgemmill.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/Pics_EightRural.jpg
Image Source (http://billgemmill.com/urbanviews/page/4/)

[MegaBass]

Tempe's Centerpoint on Mill sold to Bob Parsons for $38 million (http://www.bizjournals.com/phoenix/news/2013/10/01/tempes-centerpoint-on-mill-sold-to.html?page=all)

The Centerpoint on Mill — a 127,027-square-foot mixed-use project in the heart of downtown Tempe — has been sold to a company controlled by Go Daddy founder Bob Parsons for $38.35 million, according to a joint statement Tuesday from DMB Associates Inc. and CBRE Inc.
Located on 22 acres at the northwest corner of Mill Avenue and University Drive, Centerpoint includes about 20,000 square feet of office space, several eateries — such as P.F. Chang’s, Fat Tuesday, Jimmy John’s and Pita Pit — and a 37,645-square-foot movie theater. That theater once housed a Harkins Theaters, the short-lived MADCAP theater and will soon be occupied by AMC Theaters. The office space is fully leased while the retail space is 87 percent leased.
Parsons bought 6.19 acres of the total development.
The complex was sold by Scottsdale-based DMB Associates Inc., which began building Centerpoint nearly three decades ago as its first large-scale mixed-use development and through a public-private partnership with the city, the statement said.
The statement only specified the buyer as Mill Avenue Retail LLC, not mentioning Parsons. But according to its corporate filing with the Arizona Corporation Commission, that entity was formed in early August by Dan Dahl, who is handling Parsons’ growing real estate portfolio, and other members Steve Gabbay and Anne O’Moore.
“Over the past 28 years, the City of Tempe and DMB have worked together to create a point of pride for the Valley, a truly urban destination that models the live, work, play ideal,” Tempe Mayor Mark Mitchell said in the statement. “DMB’s work as placemakers, developing a downtown core featuring high-quality national and local retailers, unique dining, art, theater, and residential, has helped brand Tempe as a destination for tourists and locals.”
Glenn Smigiel, a CBRE broker who helped represent DMB in the transaction, said the project was an “excellent” investment opportunity for the buyer.
“The sale of Centerpoint on Mill is an indicator of the health of the Tempe market and the continued strengthening of the Phoenix-metro area in general,” Smigiel said.
Since selling a portion of Go Daddy to a private equity firm in 2011 for $2.25 billion, Parsons has been on a buying spree of Valley real estate, so far scooping up more than $163 million worth of commercial properties, according to the Business Real Estate Weekly of Arizona.
The Centerpoint project is arguably the most high-profile of his holdings.

[azsunsurfer]

http://www.azcentral.com/sports/asu/articles/20131003asu-sun-devil-stadium-north-end-zone-demolition-january-2014.html

The rendering shows the State Farm campus at built out in the background.

[MegaBass]

Jimmy & Joe’s Pizzeria to expand to Ahwatukee & Tempe this fall (http://mouthbysouthwest.com/2013/10/03/jimmy-joes-pizzeria-to-expand-to-ahwatukee-tempe-this-fall/)

For years, Jimmy & Joe’s Pizzeria was a local favorite known mostly to residents of its Chandler neighborhood. In 2011, it opened a second location in Mesa, bringing its signature Serious Slice to a wider audience.

Now, owner Terry Black‘s family-run operation is undergoing a major expansion, opening additional locations this fall in Ahwatukee and Tempe.

The Ahwatukee location is scheduled to open Oct. 21 in the former Naked Pizza space in the Safeway center at 48th Street and Elliot. It will be the first location to offer beer and wine (once its permit is approved).

The Tempe location will be in the Tempe Transportation Building on the northwest corner of Forest Avenue and Fifth Street, just west of Sun Devil Stadium.

Besides beer and wine, it also will have a coffee bar and feature roll-up garage doors. It’s scheduled to open in late November.

Also Pita Pit is now open (https://twitter.com/DowntownTempe/status/385848081574395905) at Centerpoint on Mill & 7th.

[MegaBass]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/BVv6ZFKCcAAHvtO.jpg

ASU Business-Finance photo (https://twitter.com/asuevpcfo/status/386177502034423808/photo/1) today of College Avenue Commons.

[Jjs5056]

Thanks for the heads up, whoever noticed that SouthBank is proposing 2 4-story buildings at this point. I'm not sure if I would rather see this fail like their other attempts over the last couple years, or at least get something off the ground to jumpstart some action on that side of the lake.

I have said it before and I'll say it again, 4-story residential in the heart of downtown or around the lake is setting Tempe up for failure. It's a landlocked city with an even smaller amount of land left to be developed in its core and around its greatest amenity - the lake. 4 and 6 story proposals break my heart.

In the meantime, 4-5 story infill projects to the west are where that kind of density makes sense as was always the plan. Tall and dense from Mill to College, University to Rio; stepping down along Ash and then lowrise, but dense multifamily and mixed use properties to the west. That area seems to still be getting it right with Argo, Farmer Lofts, and now this- Clarendon Lofts: http://www.tempe.gov/Modules/ShowDocument.aspx?documentid=20255

Fingers crossed it isn't more senior housing.

Passed Argo, btw, and while I knew street fronting retail along Rio was going to be a challenge, it seems to be set far enough back that "street facing" is a very loose description.

Meanwhile, any news on Lofts at Hayden or Hanover which were set to break ground this year? Both lots desperately need to be filled, but I'd be similarly torn in wanting to them go up, or wanting to see them fail so something netter comes along - just not sure how likely that would ever be.

[Spitfiredude]

Meanwhile, any news on Lofts at Hayden or Hanover which were set to break ground this year? Both lots desperately need to be filled, but I'd be similarly torn in wanting to them go up, or wanting to see them fail so something netter comes along - just not sure how likely that would ever be.

I hope the Hanover project does not get built. It is about as tall as the town homes at W6 and provides no height to a lot that can connect W6 to the northern part of DT Tempe. I think many people agree that lot specifically needs a building taller than 100 ft.

Milk & Honey has opened below W6. It is definitely convenience focused (candy, chips, many drinks, etc.), but they also have a fairly good selection of fresh fruits, packaged salads, packaged meals (frozen/unfrozen) and a minor selection of groceries. The owner said its a soft opening until they get the store completely filled. Nice little shop to run to. Reminds me of a larger KOD Market (ASU campus). I wish it was a full size grocery, but I'm not complaining.