Proposed new high-rise mixed-use tower in Tempe! (Phoenix: apartments, hotel)

[goolsbyjazz]

It was recently reported that Minneapolis-based Opus Development Co. filed plans for a three tower mixed-use project that would include luxury apartments and more hotel rooms to downtown Tempe. The sticking point is that it would be 20 stories high, which ASU President Michael Crow is not crazy about. He thinks the buildings, which will be next to ASU's main campus, will be too high.

The project would be built on a full block from Myrtle Ave. to Forest Ave. between University Drive and Seventh Street.

What do you think? Is this a good idea?

[BoiWonder13]

I will say it is so much better than what is currently there now...a surface parking lot. With a massive opportunity for infill and redevelopment I encourage this type of growth in Metro Phoenix and especially in HOT Tempe!

[Phxguy]

What I don't understand is why this is being fought when at the beginning of the year the now failed Omni Hotel for USA Place across the street at Mill and University was seen as a beacon for urban revitalization of Tempe. That proposed hotel was a similar height and not 500 feet away.

[observer53]

Originally Posted by Phxguy

What I don't understand is why this is being fought when at the beginning of the year the now failed Omni Hotel for USA Place across the street at Mill and University was seen as a beacon for urban revitalization of Tempe. That proposed hotel was a similar height and not 500 feet away.

That, and there are some quite tall buildings already built that are within similar distances (University House, Residence Inn).

[Phxguy]

Originally Posted by observer53

That, and there are some quite tall buildings already built that are within similar distances (University House, Residence Inn).

Precisely, it sounds fishy that it's being challenged. ASU touts its ties and proximity with downtown Tempe and yet suddenly voices concern for possibly the best designed project and use of land, from a parking lot nevertheless, for being exactly what the area needs but cannot reason with. Where else to build a high-rise than in downtown?? Is Crow trying to hold Tempe back?

[new2colo]

Originally Posted by Phxguy

What I don't understand is why this is being fought when at the beginning of the year the now failed Omni Hotel for USA Place across the street at Mill and University was seen as a beacon for urban revitalization of Tempe. That proposed hotel was a similar height and not 500 feet away.

It's being fought by ASU because they failed to negotiate a deal with USA Place developers. Another developer is beating them to the punch and they're clearly not happy. Now it'll be difficult for Crow to try to attract another hotelier if there is a large hotel just across the street.

I doubt this will be built anyway. We have time and time and time again heard of proposed grandiose projects that never come to fruition. That's what this state seems to be known for.

[goolsbyjazz]

Originally Posted by new2colo

It's being fought by ASU because they failed to negotiate a deal with USA Place developers. Another developer is beating them to the punch and they're clearly not happy. Now it'll be difficult for Crow to try to attract another hotelier if there is a large hotel just across the street.

I doubt this will be built anyway. We have time and time and time again heard of proposed grandiose projects that never come to fruition. That's what this state seems to be known for.

Unfortunately, you may be on to something regarding ASU's failed attempt with the other developer. You also are somewhat correct about proposed projects not coming to fruition although I have to say Tempe has been making good pogress.

[observer53]

I think this one will happen; they may succeed in getting the big tower scaled down, but I think odds are better than even that it will go through. The USA Basketball project was more complicated. And, ASU doesn't own this property, like they do the USA Place land-- the developer does. So, there's a limit to what Pres. Crow can do.

[goolsbyjazz]

Originally Posted by observer53

I think this one will happen; they may succeed in getting the big tower scaled down, but I think odds are better than even that it will go through. The USA Basketball project was more complicated. And, ASU doesn't own this property, like they do the USA Place land-- the developer does. So, there's a limit to what Pres. Crow can do.

I actually hope this project goes through. I like the proposal and believe it will be a nice addition.

[exit2lef]

The highest densities should be concentrated near light rail, which runs right along the north side of the ASU Tempe Campus and near the site of this proposed development. The area along the lake is more distant from transit and therefore a less obvious candidate for high density development.