Estrella flourishing with recent sale of 719 homesites to renowned national homebuilders

Estrella flourishing with recent sale of 719 homesites to renowned national homebuilders

GOODYEAR, Ariz. (October 4, 2024) – Estrella, a large-scale master-planned community in the bustling West Valley, is pleased to announce a significant milestone in its ongoing development. With the successful sale of 719 homesites within the vibrant villages of Lucero and Montecito, Estrella is flourishing and attracting national homebuilders.

The recent sale of 508 homesites in the Montecito village is to national homebuilders Richmond American Homes and Lennar. The recent homesite purchases closed on Sept. 30. The homesites start with sizes ranging from 47 feet up to 65 feet wide.

The Montecito sale continues the momentum at Estrella with the sale of 211 homesites in the village of Lucero in early 2024 by Brightland Homes and Richmond American Homes.  Those models are set to open in early 2025.

“As the West Valley booms with quality employment, and more commercial, entertainment and retail offerings than ever before, homebuilders have definitely turned their attention to the neighborhoods Estrella can offer,” said Jeff Zimmerman, Vice President of Development for Estrella Development Company. Estrella Development LLC is a joint venture with Harvard Investments, Toll Brothers, and Värde Partners.

“Estrella is one of the largest master-planned communities in the West Valley benefits from the healthy growth taking place in the City of Goodyear. We have great schools from pre-K through high school within Estrella. With tons of amenities already in place, it makes Estrella’s new homes even more attractive to homebuyers,” Zimmerman said.

Nestled in the foothills of the Sierra Estrella Mountains south of I-10 in Goodyear, Estrella is adjacent to the 19,000-acre Estrella Regional Park. Residents have exclusive access to community amenities including two residents’ clubs with resort-style pools, fitness centers, restaurants, a water park area for kids, and more. The community also provides residents with a Yacht Club, 72 acres of lakes, and the award-winning public Championship course The Golf Club at Estrella. There are more than 65 miles of hiking and biking trails and more than 50 community parks within Estrella.

The Estrella Welcome Center

Estrella’s growth is a testament to its enduring appeal and strategic vision. The community’s thoughtful planning and commitment to excellence have attracted top-tier builders, ensuring that each new home reflects the highest standards of craftsmanship and design. At the gateway to the Estrella community is the newly conceived Welcome Center, the recipient of three regional and national design awards in 2024.

“We have invested millions of dollars into the community to improve the experience in every way – including infrastructure, amenities, and overall experience. We’ve added new parks, improved signage, upgraded the golf experience and contributed significantly to refreshing the club experiences, to name a few,” said Tim Brislin, President of Harvard Investments, managing partner of Estrella.

“These significant new lot purchases confirm the builders’ confidence in Estrella today, and further cement Estrella’s reputation as a sought-after development that builders can invest in, as well as a recognized destination for homebuyers seeking a quality community with everything in place to enjoy now,” Brislin said.

The new builder neighborhoods will include the addition of more resident parks as well as introduce a diverse range of home styles and floor plans, catering to the varied needs and preferences of modern singles, couples, and families.

The Montecito and Lucero lot sales were facilitated by Greg Vogel, Ryan Semro, Bret Rinehart, and Wesley Campbell with Scottsdale-based Land Advisors Organization.

“Estrella has a long-standing history in the West Valley and is one of the largest master-planned communities in the country. It serves as a centerpiece of the booming West Valley, offering incredible amenities for residents,” said Greg Vogel, CEO of Land Advisors Organization. “It’s no surprise that national builders recognize the immense opportunity here, with the substantial land supply and the area’s significant employment growth. Our team is honored to represent Harvard Investments in bringing these builders to Estrella and helping unlock the full potential of this remarkable community.”

The Golf Club at Estrella

About Estrella

Home to more than 8,200 families, Estrella is a 20,000-acre mixed-use master-planned community located in the City of Goodyear, approximately 17 miles west of Phoenix. Estrella’s 500-plus acres of open space include more than 50 parks and 65 miles of paths and trails, plus 72 acres of lakes for kayaking, sailing, and catch-and-release fishing. Amenities include Starpointe and Presidio Residents’ Clubs, the Yacht Club of Estrella, two fitness centers, resort-style swimming pools, basketball, volleyball, pickleball, and tennis courts. Estrella is also home to a Nicklaus-design Championship golf course, The Golf Club of Estrella. Estrella is owned in a joint venture among Värde Partners, Toll Brothers, and Harvard Investments. For more information about Estrella, please visit estrella.com.

###

 

 

Arizona Masonry Council honors its best at 2024 Excellence in Masonry Architectural Awards

Arizona Masonry Council honors its best at 2024 Excellence in Masonry Architectural Awards

PHOENIX, ARIZ. (Oct. 2, 2024) – The Arizona Masonry Council celebrated its 33rd Annual Excellence in Masonry Architectural Awards for outstanding masonry design, workmanship, and creativity using brick, block and/or stone.

The banquet, which honored this year’s finest, was held at the Scottsdale Resort McCormick Ranch, with more than 300 industry members in attendance.

“The objective of the awards banquet is to honor the design community for its creativity and expression in masonry, and to honor the builders and producers for their craftsmanship and innovation of masonry products. These notable awards represent an achievement that is well respected between both the design and building communities,” said Arizona Masonry Council Executive Director Dawn Rogers.

This year’s architectural jury panel was from Albuquerque, New Mexico. The jury panel comprised Erik Mease, AIA, Principal Architect and President, SMPC Architects; Jackie Bryan, AIA, WELL AP, Senior Associate/Architect, SMPC Architects; Scott Heatly, PE, Owner/President, Heatly Engineering, Inc.; Aaron Zahm, PLA, ASLA, LEED AP, Principal Landscape Architect, Pland Collaborative; and Chris Beaty, President, Beaty Masonry Company, LLC.

The Craftsmanship Jury consisted of three retired masons from Arizona: Jan Hill and Don White, retired from Roma Masonry; and Mike Gray, retired from Sutter Masonry.

The top honor for 2024, the Gold Trowel Award, went to the Southeast Justice Center. The winning team included Maricopa County FMD, owner; Multistudio, architect; Meyer Borgman Johnson, structural engineers; Layton Construction, general contractor; Arizona Stone Brick Pavers, masonry supplier; and MAG Construction, masonry contractor.

Bart Del Duca Award winner Paul Scott and his wife Janet.

The Bart Del Duca Award went to Paul Scott, who after 46 years of structural engineering excellence, retired in 2022 from Caruso Turley Scott. The award is named after Bart Del Duca, who served his entire life in the masonry business. Winners are selected for outstanding performance, service, or significant achievement in the masonry industry.

Scott has been a registered structural engineer since 1982. His personal commitment, excellent service, and extensive design knowledge have provided for strong and steady growth. He holds professional registration in 25 states and two U.S. territories and has completed more than 10,000 design projects during his career. In 2022, he was one of the first AMC Lifetime Members, an honor given to individuals who have had a major impact on the masonry industry for a minimum of 25 years.

Also recognized was Kate McKuen a senior at Canyon del Oro High School in Tucson. A member of CDO’s Architecture Program, she competed at National Skills USA in Atlanta, as the only Arizona competitor in the masonry high school competition.

Category winners:

♦️ Monument and Entry Way Citation Award: Copperleaf

♦️ Monument and Entry Way Merit Award: Wildera

♦️ Honor Award: Hawes Crossing

♦️ Perimeter Walls Citation Award: Barney Farms

♦️ Perimeter Walls Merit Award: Union Park at Norterra

♦️ Perimeter Walls Honor Award: Hawes Crossing

♦️ Multi-Family Merit Award: The Hideaway on Palm

♦️ Multi-Family Honor Award: Moontower Phoenix

♦️ Residential Citation Award: Andrus Residence

♦️ Residential Citation Award: Modern Sunset

♦️ Non-Residential Citation Award: Andrew Weil Center for Integrative Medicine

♦️ Non-Residential Citation Award: Banner Sports Medicine Scottsdale

♦️ Residential Merit Award: 94th Street Residence

♦️ Residential Merit Award: Breaking Beadle

♦️ Non-Residential Merit Award: Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office

♦️ Residential Honor Award: Onyx in Crown Canyon

♦️ Residential Honor Award: Silverleaf

♦️ Non-Residential Honor Award: Pima Animal Care Center

♦️ Craftmanship Award (Residential): Silverleaf

♦️ Craftmanship Award (Non-Residential): Southeast Justice Center

The Excellence in Masonry Architectural Awards program is sponsored by the Arizona Masonry Council, a non-profit organization servicing the masonry industry in Arizona.

Silverleaf, winner of Craftsmanship Award (Residential) and Residential Honor Award.

###

About the Arizona Masonry Council

The mission of the Arizona Masonry Council is to create significant and lasting positive change for the Arizona masonry industry and to reinforce that our systems provide the premier building envelope solution in the minds of public and private owners, developers, architects, engineers, general contractors, and the general public. The Council and its members have played a significant role in economic development, new product and construction standards, enhanced safety policies and increased energy efficiency of masonry products. It has also been on the forefront of developing and implementing statewide education programs for the professional community as well as students from college to the high school level. The Arizona Masonry Council can be reached at (602) 265-5999 or visit azmasonry.org.

 

 

 

Texas school board awards $6.4M safety solutions contract to Peoria-based FSJ Tactical

Texas school board awards $6.4M safety solutions contract to Peoria-based FSJ Tactical

      PEORIA, ARIZ.  (Oct. 1, 2024) – FSJ Tactical, a leader in perimeter safety solutions, is proud to announce it has been selected and awarded a $6.4 million contract with the El Paso Independent School District (EPISD), the largest of three school districts in El Paso, Texas.

FSJ Tactical provides school districts and government entities in Texas and throughout the region with bullet-resistant wall panels, bullet-resistant window film, and perimeter fencing.

EPISD is the largest district in the Texas Education Agency’s Educational Service Center, Region 19. With nearly 50,000 students on 84 campuses, EPISD also is the 12th largest district in Texas and the 61st largest district in the U.S. It also is El Paso’s largest employer with nearly 9,000 employees and has an annual operating budget of $542 million.

This is the third school district in El Paso County to contract FSJ Tactical for its perimeter solutions. Contracts with Socorro ISD (more than 50 campuses) and Clint ISD (10 campuses) were completed earlier this year.

“As the number of students reporting fear of a potential active shooter situation continues to increase each year, we are proud to provide peace of mind to facility occupants at the two largest school districts in El Paso,” said FSJ Tactical COO and Owner Fernando Mendez.

“This approach supports valuable teacher retention and differentiates our commitment to safety. That two of the three largest school districts in El Paso put the safety of their students, teachers, and staff in our hands says a lot for the reputation of FSJ Tactical,” Mendez said.

FSJ Tactical’s groundbreaking glass film technology, Safe Haven Defense, was originally developed by a former law enforcement officer with first-hand experience in the outcomes of poor threat protection.

To develop its revolutionary ballistic resistant wall panels, it took building experts to refine the process of systems design, customization, fulfillment, and installation across the U.S. Ultimate facility protection can be applied to any existing wall, even historic buildings with surface shapes of all sizes.

The founders of FSJ Tactical are career contracting experts who work with their clients at the manufacturer level to understand the benefits of ballistic resistance in walls and windows.

For more information about FSJ Tactical visit fsjtactical.com.

###

Sigma Southwest collaboration brings new concept, Formation Brewing, to Phoenix

Sigma Southwest collaboration brings new concept, Formation Brewing, to Phoenix

        PHOENIX, ARIZ. (Oct. 1, 2024) – An exemplary collaboration among key stakeholders is bringing a new and exciting design-build project to downtown Phoenix. The newly merged Sigma Southwest will serve as the general contractor.

Formation Brewing, 925 N. 5th Ave., in Phoenix, is in a perfect space that Marti Weinstein of Diversified Partners, LLC, identified and secured for the design-build team of DPA Architects, Sigma Southwest LLC, and Sigma Contracting, Inc. Sigma Contracting executed pre-construction, and Sigma Southwest is executing construction.

The project is a design-build tenant build-out from first-generation shell space.  Structural modifications were required to support the new HVAC configuration and excavation was required to lower the floor slab to the required elevation. A second form of egress was created to accommodate the use of the second-floor mezzanine. The storefront will be moved to create a larger patio space. The first floor will feature a central sunken seating area, 33-foot ceilings, a 19-tank brewing system, a full kitchen, and a 110-seat dining area.

Formation Brewery is a new concept for the owners of Denver Beer Co. (DBC) of Colorado. At 10,000 SF, it is the largest location in the DBC portfolio. The goal was to provide the same high-quality, community-focused space while venturing into a new market one state away. Sigma Contracting worked with the owners for the past nine months, collaborating to select the right design team and helping to align their image with their new branding.

The team spent a large amount of time perfecting the selection of colors, images, materials, and layout to create the perfect warm and inviting environment. Everything had to work within the constraints of the building and the budget, from electrical, plumbing, structural, and egress.

“As the initial contact for this project in mid-December of last year, I couldn’t be prouder of the way it has unfolded and the fun collaboration of the whole team,” said Sigma Southwest Business Development Specialist Melinda Hinkson. “With an established owner that knows their product and their market, their CEO is a veteran of hundreds of builds of this caliber and knows and understands what is needed and what is being asked for.

“We are grateful for the trust in us to provide the right team, a strong team, and we’ve made every effort to work through any issues before getting into actual construction. We are looking forward to toasting completion with their latest brew,” Hinkson said.

Major subcontractors included Tri-Mega Mechanical, HVAC; Reidhead Plumbing, plumbing; Black Label Steel, structural steel; and 1 Twenty Electric.

For more information about Sigma Southwest visit sigmasouthwest.com.

###

 

Arizona APWA honors City of Mesa Monterey Park expansion; Terracon served as prime consultant

Arizona APWA honors City of Mesa Monterey Park expansion; Terracon served as prime consultant

TEMPE, ARIZ. (Sept. 30, 2024) – The Arizona Chapter of the American Public Works Association (APWA) recently recognized a City of Mesa project for which Terracon Consultants, Inc. served as the prime design consultant.

The Monterey Park expansion project in Mesa, Arizona, was the 2024 Project of the Year winner in the Structures $5 million to $25 million category.

Terracon’s Phoenix Landscape Architecture group worked closely with the City of Mesa, the design team, and Hunter Contracting Co., which served as the construction manager at-risk overseeing construction.

“It’s always our goal to bring value to the communities our projects serve. It was exciting to work with our design team and the City of Mesa whose community-driven vision for the expansion of Monterey Park and the new Mesa Express Library was already focused on innovative ways to bring new services into what could have otherwise been a nice but common ballfield park,” said John Griffin, the design team project manager and landscape architect with Terracon, a consulting firm specializing in design, environmental, facilities, geotechnical, and materials services.

“They really championed exploring new ways to make the project something special. Hunter Contracting was a true partner throughout the construction process, always great to work with, and really adding value to the final results,” Griffin added.

The park expansion project was driven by public demand for new improvements leading to doubling the park’s size, adding four youth baseball and softball fields, four pickleball courts, two ramadas, and restrooms.

Water conservation and site resiliency were key considerations during design, including extensive water harvesting throughout the parking lot, protection of mature trees for shade, and right-sizing turf areas.

“With the expansion of Monterey Park, the surrounding neighborhoods have a point of pride that is a gem,” said Andrea Moore, City of Mesa Parks, Recreation, and Community Facilities Director. “The diversity in activities available in the park creates a destination that is enjoyed by all ages. It promotes a healthy community with physical activity, social opportunities, and literacy.”

A central feature of the project is the new Mesa Express Library, a one-of-a-kind self-service library residents can access using their library card to find something new to read as well as reserve park equipment. Outside of the library building, patrons are also able to retrieve reserved books and equipment through self-service electronic lockers.

They can also follow the story trail signs that lead young readers on a looped route around the library area. A large shade structure and tot lot and an outdoor reading amphitheater adjacent to the library further integrate the library with the park.

“The library is thrilled to partner with our Mesa Parks and Recreation Department to offer services in a reimagined way,” said Polly Bonnett, City of Mesa Library Director. “Monterey Park and the Mesa Express Library have truly become a focal point in the neighborhood, offering amenities that serve a variety of interests and ages. This initiative blends education, leisure and wellness and strengthens the connections in our community.”

The collaborative design team also included civil engineers, Ardurra Group, Inc.; architects, Architectural Resource Team; plumbing and mechanical engineers, Säzän Group; electrical engineers, Wright Engineering Corp.; and structural engineers, Caruso Turley Scott Inc.

The mission of the Arizona Chapter of APWA is to support those who operate, improve, and maintain public works and infrastructure through advocacy, education, and member engagement. The award was presented at the annual Arizona APWA Public Works Conference at the El Conquistador Tucson.

The APWA Awards Program recognizes outstanding individuals, groups and chapters representing the best in public works.

Members of the winning design team at the Arizona Chapter of the APWA Awards in Tucson. (Photo courtesy of Hunter Contracting Co.)

###

About Terracon

Terracon is an employee-owned multidiscipline consulting firm with more than 6,000 curious minds focused on solving engineering and technical challenges from more than 175 locations nationwide. Our talented employee-owners provide on-time and real-time data-driven insights to create an unmatched client experience that spans the lifecycle of any project, any size, anywhere. ​Terracon consistently ranks as a top 25 design firm by Engineering News-Record. Start to explore with us by visiting terracon.com.

Construction begins on amenity-rich community center at Gregg Ranch in Marble Falls, Texas

Construction begins on amenity-rich community center at Gregg Ranch in Marble Falls, Texas

MARBLE FALLS, TEXAS (Sept. 25, 2024) – Construction has begun on the community center at Gregg Ranch with resident-focused features including a main swimming pool with lap lanes, a gathering space, multiple shade ramadas, and game courts.

The new, resident-only community center, projected to open in early 2025, is located at West Cora Lee Loop and Gregg Ranch Boulevard within the Legacy Park. New walking areas within the park will further enhance the trail system and complement the community center to provide additional recreation options.

Plans also include volleyball and pickleball courts, a gaga ball pit, a playground, a picnic pavilion with a fire pit, and a dog park to accommodate both small and large dogs. The expansive pool area will feature two, 60-foot-long lap lanes.

“We’re thrilled with the features that our residents will enjoy in their new community center,” said Chris Cacheris, Senior Vice President at Harvard Investments, the developer of Gregg Ranch. “It will serve as another reason for people to choose to live at Gregg Ranch.”

Located at the entrance to the Texas Hill Country, near state parks, lakes, and rivers, Marble Falls is one of the fastest-growing towns in the region. In April, Gregg Ranch opened several new neighborhoods by award-winning national homebuilder Richmond American Homes, which offers its popular UltraGarage®. These “big toy” garages are available with certain floor plans and accommodate RVs, ATVs, boats, and every type of adventure gear.

Gregg Ranch offers single-family detached homes, ideal for families, couples, singles, empty-nesters and retirees. Texas Hill Country is famous for unique wineries, museums, live music, and restaurants all within driving distance; each providing a taste of culture and hospitality.

Marble Falls boasts a downtown center with flourishing shops, restaurants, festivals and attractions throughout the year. It is a short drive from the best Hill Country offers including hiking, mountain climbing, kayaking, fishing, and even spelunking.

For more information about Gregg Ranch visit greggranch.com.

About Harvard Investments  

Harvard Investments, Inc. is a real estate investment and development company with real estate holdings throughout the western United States. Harvard combines experience, integrity, and financial stability to create high quality, environmentally sensitive, profitable communities including both large scale master planned communities and build to rent neighborhoods. Harvard’s Canadian parent, the Hill Companies, is a privately held diversified company involved in real estate development including construction and leasing of commercial office buildings and retail properties, oil and gas production and distribution, broadcasting, surety bonding, and insurance. The Hill Companies celebrated its 121st year of continuous family ownership and operation in 2024. To learn more visit harvardinvestments.com.

###

Beth Jo Zeitzer of R.O.I. Properties named AZCREW’s inaugural Woman Icon Award winner

Beth Jo Zeitzer of R.O.I. Properties named AZCREW’s inaugural Woman Icon Award winner

PHOENIX, ARIZ. (Sept. 19, 2024) – Impactful. Confident. Fierce. Resilient. Influential. Graceful. Groundbreaker. Game changer. Admired.

Attributes of a woman icon in commercial real estate, those words summarize the career of the winner of AZREW’s inaugural Woman Icon Award winner, Beth Jo Zeitzer, President and Designated Broker of R.O.I. Properties and a past AZCREW President.

AZCREW, the commercial real estate organization that exists to transform the industry by advancing women globally, announced the winner of the inaugural Woman Icon Award yesterday at its annual Woman Icon speaker event.

The AZCREW Woman Icon Award was created to honor a trailblazing woman in the commercial real estate industry. The prestigious honor was designed to celebrate exceptional leadership, innovation, and impact, recognizing those who have paved the way for future generations.

“Impactful, graceful, and fierce – these were the qualities we sought in selecting the recipient of our inaugural AZCREW Woman Icon award, and Beth Jo Zeitzer embodies them all,” said AZCREW President Jenny Liles with Cresa. “With more than 30 years of experience as a CEO, she has navigated the complexities of her field with unwavering grace and determination, constantly pushing boundaries and challenging the status quo. Her journey is a testament to the strength of perseverance and the power of visionary leadership.”

R.O.I. Properties is a full-service real estate advisory and brokerage firm based in Phoenix. Before founding R.O.I. Properties, Zeitzer, served as the Director of Commercial Properties at Del Webb Corporation where she handled $96 million in real estate transactions and a 600-acre commercial property portfolio which included regional and neighborhood retail centers, business, medical and professional offices, industrial parks, and light industrial spaces.

An Arizona resident since 1971, Zeitzer graduated from the University of Arizona with a B.A. in general research (with real estate and marketing emphasis). She is also a graduate of the University of San Diego Law School, where she was the Research Editor of the Law Review and the recipient of the Hahn Award for Excellence in Real Estate.

“I found community through AZCREW,” Zeitzer said. “It is such an incredible organization that helped form my commercial real estate career. I am so thankful for that. With all the community and fun, we have making deals all day, long, the key is to embrace the challenges before us and turn them into opportunities.”

The award was presented at the 2024 Woman Icon event, which was sold out. This year’s Woman Icon speaker was Dr. Jen Welter, the first female coach and player in NFL history. Dr. Welter is also the author of “Play Big” in which she reveals the grit and determination that it took to be a trailblazer in one of the country’s toughest boys’ clubs.

With a career studded with several firsts, Dr. Welter made history when she coached the Arizona Cardinals’ inside linebackers for their 2015 training camp.  Dr. Welter serves as a powerful role model and an inspiring reminder that barriers are meant to be broken.

About AZCREW:

AZCREW is the local affiliate of CREW Network. CREW Network is at the forefront of achieving gender equity and greater diversity in commercial real estate. We will achieve this by transforming the industry by advancing women globally. Our membership offers unparalleled business development, leadership opportunities and networking both locally in your market and globally across our 12,000-member base. For more information visit arizonacrew.org.

###

 

Earthworks Environmental celebrates a decade of being an industry leader in compliance excellence

Earthworks Environmental celebrates a decade of being an industry leader in compliance excellence

     GILBERT, ARIZ.  (Sept. 19, 2024) – Earthworks Environmental, an environmental compliance consulting firm, was founded 10 years ago, a journey that began with one client and 15 projects.

Earthworks Environmental has since become an industry leader with a proprietary online management software system, ERX, it launched 7 years ago, with more than 80 employees, and numerous new divisions in the Southern U.S.

Since its inception in 2014, the woman-owned company that provides stormwater pollution prevention, dust control, and construction safety compliances, has grown organically to become an industry leader, operating in 20 states and 36 markets. From its first client – national homebuilder Taylor Morrison – to the present, Earthworks Environmental has forged partnerships with 19 of the top 20 homebuilders in the nation.      The firm primarily serves land developers, vertical developers, commercial construction, and land-holding companies.

Earthworks Environmental CEO Cherie Koester

“We are thrilled to mark a significant milestone,” Earthworks Environmental CEO Cherie Koester said. “It started with a single client, Taylor Morrison, which remains one of our most valued partners. This year alone, we have accompanied and resolved 1,389 regulatory inspections nationwide.”

Earthworks Environmental’s commitment to innovation has led to the development of cutting-edge technology, specifically its proprietary online stormwater management software, ERX. ERX is used by homebuilders nationwide and is approved for use by builders by the EPA. It led to the formation of a new company in 2023, ERX Industries.

For the past 7 years, Earthworks Environmental has employed ERX, which puts all aspects of environmental compliance into one program. This includes permits, inspections, and maps. ERX was developed for large-scale national builders based on their feedback of what they wanted and needed, Koester said.

“Our world is quickly becoming technology-based, and to stay in front of that we needed to bring a higher level of software and customer service,” Koester said. “ERX has done exactly that. The management tools and cutting-edge mapping feature are unmatched.”

Earthworks Environmental currently has approximately 2,400 active users nationally in ERX. It is available as a subscription base or license purchased, Koester said.

In recent years Earthworks Environmental opened divisions in Atlanta; Nashville and Chattanooga, Tennessee; Venice, Florida; Baton Rouge, Louisiana; and Arkansas.

Koester’s commitment to nurturing loyalty and remembering the company’s roots has been a cornerstone of Earthworks Environmental. She is also a firm believer of work-life balance for herself and the team. Koester prides herself as a mother and has guided the management team to embody strong values and principles, striving to enhance the growth and development of every employee.

Earthworks Environmental embraces camaraderie with team-building events. It also celebrates team members with Employee of the Month honors. Koester’s adult children all graduated from Arizona State University with various degrees and hold essential roles at Earthworks Environmental.

Earthworks Environmental believes in the power of community. Through partnerships with industry groups and non-profit organizations, Koester and her team constantly give back to the community. Earthworks Environmental unites each year with industry group Valley Partnership, participating with its Community Project.

As Earthworks Environmental enters its second decade, the company remains committed to its mission of compliance excellence. Since Earthworks still remains a single shareholder entity, the business will continue to focus on providing the best possible customer service and client satisfaction versus concentrating on margins. Future plans include continued growth into new markets and within current markets, Koester said.

“For many years I kept saying I felt like there was so much more for me to do and I wasn’t even halfway to my goals,” Koester said. “Today, I still feel the same way. There are countless things for me to still learn and I’m reminded daily how much I still want to grow. The sky is the limit, and I am driving the rocket.”

To learn more about Earthworks Environmental visit earthworksenv.com.

###

 

 

 

Wespac Construction begins work on Offerpad Solutions’ new HQ in iconic Tempe office building

Wespac Construction begins work on Offerpad Solutions’ new HQ in iconic Tempe office building

PHOENIX, ARIZONA (Sept. 12, 2024) — Wespac Construction, Inc. is excited to announce the start of construction on a first-generation tenant improvement for Offerpad Solutions Inc., located on the fifth floor of “The Beam on Farmer” office building in Tempe.

The Beam on Farmer, 433 S. Farmer Ave., Tempe, known for its distinctive mass timber construction, will have its architectural beauty preserved and showcased as Wespac works to implement a raised access flooring system. This design allows all mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) elements to be installed under the floor, keeping the exposed structure above intact and aligned with the building’s aesthetic vision.

The 39,895 SF area will feature a range of dynamic and functional spaces, including executive offices along the perimeter, open office areas, collaborative workspaces, a golf simulation room, a large training room, multiple break rooms, and two new unisex restrooms. Office fronts will consist of demountable partitions provided by Transact Interiors, enabling flexibility and a modern touch to the office layout.

“We’re thrilled to partner with Offerpad Solutions Inc. and our Caliber Project Management team to bring this innovative office space to life,” said Ian Wright, Project Manager at Wespac Construction, Inc. “The Beam on Farmer’s unique building design offers an exciting opportunity to create a workspace that not only meets the needs of Offerpad, but also enhances the experience of everyone who steps inside.”

Construction is set to begin in fall 2024, with expected completion in early spring 2025. Wespac is honored to collaborate with Offerpad Solutions Inc., Caliber Project Management, and the design project team, including RSP Architects, Transact Commercial Interiors, and Faciliteq Architectural interiors in creating a state-of-the-art workspace that will contribute to Tempe’s vibrant business landscape.

About Wespac

Established in 1991, Wespac Construction Inc. is a general contracting and construction management firm, offering preconstruction and construction services in a variety of market sectors. From small tenant improvement projects to large shell and master-planned communities, Wespac is a true partner to our clients throughout the entire project lifecycle. We pursue the art of construction, while contributing knowledge, leadership, passion and commitment to every employee, client, and project team. Wespac has offices in Phoenix and Flagstaff, Arizona. www.wespacaz.com

###

16-Acre Camp Verde property sold for $1M, slated to become a new RV resort park

16-Acre Camp Verde property sold for $1M, slated to become a new RV resort park

PRESCOTT, ARIZ. (September 12, 2024) – Recreational Investment Group LLP recently completed the $1 million purchase of 15.95 acres in Camp Verde, which its plans to develop into a new RV resort park. The vacant property, which is zoned C-3, is located at the northwest corner of Highway 260 and Dickison Circle, within the area’s Opportunity Zone and offers easy access to cities and communities along Interstate 17 and State Route 260.

Opportunity Zones are an economic development tool created to spur economic growth and job creation in distressed areas and low-income communities in the United States by providing tax benefits to investors. The buyer successfully took the parcel from vacant, unentitled land through the process of engineering the site, obtaining town approvals, and permitting of the site, all during the term of escrow.  Capri Barney with Land Advisors Organization’s Prescott office represented the seller, Verde Valley Holding Company LLC, in the transaction.

“It’s great to see this property becoming a use that will serve the broader community so well,” said Barney. “As an Opportunity Zone property with C-3 zoning, interest from RV community developers was high. Plus, given the property’s prime location, with convenient access and proximity to numerous Northern Arizona communities, developing a community with more affordable residential options makes perfect sense.”  

Camp Verde, Arizona, has served as the gateway to the Verde Valley and Northern Arizona, making it an ideal location for workforce and retirement-age housing. This parcel was within the seller’s larger portfolio of Opportunity Zoned properties in the Camp Verde Area. The portfolio contains only one more Opportunity Zone parcel.

About Land Advisors Organization

Founded in 1987, Land Advisors Organization is the nation’s largest land brokerage firm specializing in providing deep market insights to landowners and purchasers for the most comprehensive and effective evaluation of land in markets across the country. By integrating current local market information with cutting-edge technology and geographically specialized professionals, Land Advisors Organization advises clients in identifying and capitalizing on valuable land opportunities in all economic environments. Land Advisors Organization serves landowners and purchasers from offices in Phoenix, Tucson, Casa Grande and Prescott, Arizona; Irvine, San Francisco, Century City, Pasadena, Roseville and San Diego, California; Orlando, Jacksonville and Tampa Bay, Florida; Atlanta, Georgia; Charlotte, North Carolina; Greenville, South Carolina; Nashville, Tennessee; Boise, Idaho; Las Vegas and Reno, Nevada; Albuquerque, New Mexico; Austin, Houston and Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas; Salt Lake City, Utah; Kansas City; and Seattle, Washington. Stay connected on Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn.

# # #