by Peter Madrid | Jun 10, 2025 | News & Updates
PHOENIX, ARIZ. (June 10, 2025) – A new era of sustainable urban living has arrived in Downtown Phoenix with the completion of ECO Phoenix, a purposefully designed apartment community by CCBG Architects.
Located at the southwest corner of 3rd Avenue and Roosevelt Street, ECO Phoenix comprises 70 thoughtfully crafted residences, offering a modern and environmentally friendly living experience. The development integrates more than 3,300 SF of retail space, solar energy utilization, a car-share program, greywater recycling, and other forward-thinking amenities that redefine urban sustainability.
Designed to blend seamlessly into the vibrant arts district and cultural hub of Downtown Phoenix, ECO Phoenix, 301 E. Roosevelt, represents a progressive approach to urban infill projects, a hallmark of CCBG Architects.
“ECO Phoenix supports the city’s ongoing commitment to sustainable growth while providing residents with access to eco-conscious living in the Downtown urban core and of one of the city’s most dynamic neighborhoods,” said CCBG Architects Partner Paul Ladensack, NCARB. “By integrating renewable energy solutions and innovative sustainability programs, ECO Phoenix helps set a new standard for responsible residential development.”
ECO Phoenix, which totals 125,000 SF, comprises one, five-story building. The $20 million multifamily project opened in January. It is owned and developed by Habitat Fenix LLC, a joint venture between Habitat Metro (Principals Tim Sprague and John Hill) and Fenix Private Capital Group (Thomas McPherson).
ECO Phoenix features a rooftop solar array that provides residents with year-round clean energy, offsetting power bills by up to 50 percent. Units are equipped with modern finishes including quartz countertops, wood-style flooring, stainless steel appliances, and efficient lighting. ECO Phoenix is outfitted with EV chargers throughout the parking garage.
Adding to the excitement surrounding ECO Phoenix is the recent arrival of Proof Bread, a local sourdough bakeshop that has opened its newest storefront within the building. The addition of Proof Bread enhances the neighborhood’s character and contributes to the growing sense of community fostered by this groundbreaking development.
Proof Bread, a staple in the Valley’s artisan baking scene, was founded in 2014 by Jared Allen. In 2017, customers Jon Przybyl and his wife, Amanda Abou-Eid, took ownership of the bakery. Since its inception, Proof Bread has been a must-visit destination at Valley farmers markets, where loyal customers eagerly line up to enjoy its signature loaves and breakfast pastries. The bakery participates in four farmers’ markets across Phoenix, Gilbert, and Scottsdale.
The newest downtown location brings an inviting atmosphere with a walk-up counter for coffee and baked goods, a thoughtfully curated pastry case, and indoor seating. The 600 SF space features a cozy kids’ play area and a dedicated shelf for adults stocked with vinyl records, books, and games, making it a welcoming hub for all ages.
With the combined efforts of local businesses and sustainable architecture, ECO Phoenix is helping shape the future of Downtown Phoenix. ECO Phoenix is within easy walking distance of the Metro light rail in the heart of the Roosevelt District.
“Touch lightly on the earth and leave a small footprint: this is the ethos behind Habitat Metro’s ECO-branded multifamily projects,” said Ladensack, who added that Habitat Fenix LLC also developed a 102-unit community, ECO Mesa, in the East Valley. “ECO Phoenix offers expansive floorplans with stunning finishes. Living sustainably doesn’t mean sacrificing beauty or quality.”
The general contractor for ECO Phoenix was Sletten Companies. Notable subcontractors include PK Associates, WERK Studio, Hartford Engineering, and Ritcoh/Powell Associates.
About CCBG Architects, Inc.
CCBG Architects, Inc., has been in continuous practice since 1955. Its portfolio includes multifamily, adaptive reuse, religious, urban infill, movie theatres, and various commercial project types. It has offices in Phoenix, Arizona, and San Diego, California. The firm is committed to the highest level of design and client satisfaction. It provides design, planning, construction administration and interior design services. CCBG has an atmosphere supportive of the pursuit of design excellence. As collaborative designers, CCBG architects strive for clear contributions to client success through a combination of service and innovative design solutions. For more information, visit www.ccbgarchitects.com.
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by Peter Madrid | Jun 6, 2025 | News & Updates
SCOTTSDALE, ARIZ. (June 6, 2025) – A.R. Mays Construction is honored to mark the June 5 groundbreaking of the Hilton Family Holocaust Education Center (HFHEC), a landmark project dedicated to preserving the stories of Holocaust survivors and inspiring action through remembrance.
“I am honored to be the builder for the Hilton Family Holocaust Education Center,” said A.R. Mays Construction President Adam Mays. “The opportunity to participate in the development of a project that furthers the education of our community of young people on the atrocities of misguided human behavior and its devastating results to fellow human beings is one I am proud to be a part of. This facility is truly a contribution to our community that will elevate awareness of all future generations to come in Arizona.”
A.R. Mays Construction is leading the development of a 31,944 SF, two-story education center with a basement, integrated around the historic Cutler Plotkin Jewish Heritage Center at 122 E. Culver St. in Downtown Phoenix. Once complete, the Hilton Family Holocaust Education Center will stand as Arizona’s leading institution for Holocaust education and learning experiences.
The Center is designed as an interactive and immersive space that will transform the way visitors engage with Holocaust history. Highlights include a permanent exhibit chronicling the progression of Nazism and the Holocaust, woven with personal accounts from Arizona-connected survivors; life-sized interactive testimonies and holographic storytelling, powered by next-generation technology; curriculum-aligned student programs and professional development opportunities for Arizona educators; and a digital learning platform, preserving survivor narratives and expanding Holocaust education.
“We’ve been working with A.R. Mays the past six months, doing a lot of the pre-planning and estimating; they’ve done a phenomenal job, complete confidence this is going to be an exciting project; executing this project to the highest level,” said Steve Hilton, a member of the leadership team at the Arizona Jewish Historical Society whose father is a Holocaust survivor and whose family the center is named after.
“This project will have cool architectural features, Jerusalem stone, and great metal and glass work. The interior will feature fantastic exhibit spaces that are state-of-the-art. We’re excited to be working with them,” Hilton said.
Distinguished guests including Arizona Gov. Katie Hobbs, Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego, and Holocaust survivor Oskar Knoblauch attended the groundbreaking ceremony. Attendees received an exclusive preview of the Center’s innovative gallery plans and celebrated the shared commitment to fostering empathy and confronting antisemitism and injustice.
The Hilton Family Holocaust Education Center is expected to open in spring 2027, ushering in a new era of education and remembrance in the heart of Phoenix.
The architect of record for the building is Deutsch Architecture Group. The exhibit’s architect is Gallagher Design and the owner representative is Chermack Consulting Group.
The groundbreaking ceremony was attended by distinguished guests including Arizona Gov. Katie Hobbs, Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego, and Holocaust survivor Oskar Knoblauch. Attendees received an exclusive preview of the Center’s innovative gallery plans and celebrated the shared commitment to fostering empathy and confronting antisemitism and injustice.
About A.R. Mays Construction
With its headquarters in Arizona and office in California, A.R. Mays Construction is a construction company specializing in managing commercial projects throughout the Southwest. With a passion for efficient operations and effective processes, combined with our commitment to comprehensive personnel training, we consistently provide construction services that exceed our customers’ expectations. Doing what we say we are going to do, taking responsibility for our actions, and contributing to our customer’s success has distinguished us as a premier building contractor for over 38 years. For more information, visit: www.armays.com
About Hilton Family Holocaust Education Center
The Hilton Family Holocaust Education Center will be Arizona’s premier institution dedicated to Holocaust education, remembrance, and dialogue. Through survivor testimony, interactive exhibits, public programs, and educator resources, the center will preserve the memory of the Holocaust while empowering future generations to stand against hatred, bigotry, and antisemitism. For more information hfhecaz.org.
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by Peter Madrid | Jun 5, 2025 | News & Updates
MESA, ARIZ. (June 5, 2025) – Casa Grande. Coolidge. Kingman. Douglas. These communities are often considered rural, yet each is strategically positioned and poised to play a significant role in Arizona’s economic growth over the coming decades.
Once seen as peripheral, these municipalities are now stepping into the spotlight, recognizing their potential and preparing to lead.
Over the past 10 years, the mindset around these areas has shifted. Where they were once overlooked, they are now actively updating their General Plans, revising development codes, and positioning themselves to compete for grant funding and investment opportunities. These communities are taking a long-term, strategic look at their future – preparing not just for the next 10 years, but for 20 and 30 years ahead.
Jessica Sarkissian
Jessica Sarkissian, AICP and founder of Upfront Planning & Entitlements, has worked in rural communities across Arizona for more than 22 years. She notes the momentum.
“These communities understand their unique character, but they’re also beginning to realize what they have to offer that larger cities often can’t – prime trade locations, access to multiple transportation corridors, and room to grow,” Sarkissian said.
Upfront Planning delivers comprehensive land planning services to both public and private clients across Arizona with a special focus on small and rural communities. The firm helps these communities think beyond immediate needs and plan strategically for long-term success.
By engaging directly with local officials, residents, and business owners, Upfront Planning crafts tailored plans, policies, codes, and procedures that support sustainable growth while preserving each community’s unique character and quality of life.
Take Kingman and Douglas, for example. They sit at the geographic edges of the state, yet they serve as critical nodes in Arizona’s transportation and trade networks. Both cities recently updated their General Plans, expanded their planning areas, and adopted more strategic policies and land use frameworks; proactively identifying opportunities in areas that had long been overlooked.
Since implementing those updates, both communities have secured federal funding and grants for infrastructure improvements near commercial ports of entry and trade corridors. They’ve also issued RFPs for further investment in these areas. While not every grant application has been successful, the presence of up-to-date plans and clearly defined goals has changed the conversation. These plans demonstrate a level of readiness and commitment that resonates with funding agencies and developers alike.
“Many rural communities initially tell me they feel overlooked by federal and state funding,” Sarkissian said. “But the real question is: are you waiting for help to arrive, or are you taking that first step? Putting solid plans, policies, and codes in place to attract that help?”
Communities like Kingman and Douglas are stepping up to the challenge. They are funding planning departments, hiring experienced staff, and educating local leadership about the value of proactive, forward-thinking planning.
“This is a turning point for rural Arizona,” Sarkissian explained. “With the rise of virtual engagement and access to experienced consultants, smaller communities now have the tools to compete. Those who act decisively – who invest in planning, adopt competitive policies, and think long-term – will be the first to see meaningful results.
“Arizona’s rural communities are no longer waiting on the sidelines. They are investing in themselves. The rest of the state is beginning to take notice,” Sarkissian said.
About Upfront Planning & Entitlements
Based in Mesa, Arizona, and founded in 2019 by Jessica Sarkissian, AICP, LEED AP, Upfront Planning & Entitlements is a woman-owned firm that provides consulting services to both public and private sector clients. Its diverse project background includes expertise in commercial, residential, and industrial sectors. It boasts a wide municipal understanding within the state, buoyed by its technical design knowledge. Sarkissian possesses more than 20 years of experience in Arizona as a land-planning specialist. For more information visit upfrontplanning.com or follow Upfront on the “Upfront Planning Podcast.”
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by Peter Madrid | Jun 2, 2025 | News & Updates
PHOENIX, ARIZ. (June 2, 2025) — Wespac Construction, Inc. is proud to officially break ground on the new Sprouts Farmers Market Headquarters, a dynamic mixed-use campus in the heart of north Phoenix. This milestone marks the beginning of an exciting journey alongside our valued project partners: Sprouts Farmers Market, Trammell Crow Company, RSP Architects, Keyser, and JLL.
Located within the CityNorth development near 56th Street and Loop 101, the future Sprouts campus will span more than 180,000 SF across seven acres. The centerpiece is a four-story, 144,500 SF Class A office building that will become the new home for Sprouts’ growing corporate team. Also included are a 25,000 SF flagship Sprouts grocery store, 11,000 SF of high-end retail and restaurant space, and a three-story parking garage.
“This project represents a major investment in the future of north Phoenix,” said Kirk Jonovich, Principal and Vice President at Wespac. “We’re proud to partner with Sprouts and Trammell Crow Company to build a headquarters that not only supports Sprouts’ continued growth, but also brings high-quality jobs, community-focused retail, and thoughtful design to one of the Valley’s fastest-growing corridors. The new campus will be a cornerstone for innovation, wellness, and economic development in this region for years to come.”
The groundbreaking ceremony, held last month, brought together leadership from Sprouts and all project collaborators to celebrate the launch of a headquarters designed to enhance both employee wellness and customer engagement. Plans for the campus include modern amenities such as an on-site gym, yoga studio, top-floor deck, Press Coffee café, culinary kitchens, tasting rooms, and even a garden for chef-driven meals and community events.
As one of the nation’s fastest-growing specialty grocers, Sprouts has nearly 450 locations across 24 states and is continuing its expansion with 33 new stores opening in 2024 and at least 35 more planned for 2025. The new headquarters will support that growth by fostering in-person collaboration and deeper community engagement.
Sprouts will transition from its current 96,000 SF space to the new location by August 2026.
The project is being developed by Trammell Crow Company, with architectural design by RSP Architects, and brokers from Keyser and JLL.
About Wespac
Established in 1991, Wespac Construction Inc. is a general contracting and construction management firm, offering pre-construction and construction services in various 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. For more information visit www.wespacaz.com.
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by Peter Madrid | May 27, 2025 | News & Updates
MESA, ARIZ. (May 27, 2025) ‒ The Adamson Group proudly enters a new era in 2025, unveiling its official rebrand from McGough Adamson Group, a transformation that underscores its growth and commitment to the landscape architecture industry.
Originally founded as McGough Group in 1992 by Tim McGough, the firm transitioned to McGough Adamson Group in 2018 when Nick Adamson became part owner. Now, with McGough’s retirement and Adamson’s leadership guiding the company forward, the name change signifies a clear vision for the future.
Nick Adamson
“I want to offer my deepest gratitude to Tim (McGough) for hiring me and eventually gaining trust in me to be his successor,” said Adamson, who assumes the title of company president. “He built a very versatile firm that weathered the storm of the recession and never went out of business.”
Based in Mesa, the Adamson Group is a midsized landscape architecture firm with 10 employees that specializes in landscape design, irrigation design, land planning, and native plant inventory, solidifying its reputation as an industry leader.
While the McGough name has long been recognized in the field, this evolution marks a refreshed identity that embraces the future while staying true to the company’s values.
“We remain dedicated to growing as a team so we can continue to provide great outdoor spaces within our community,” Adamson said.
For more than 25 years, the firm thrived in the Valley under its original leadership, establishing a reputation for excellence in landscape architectural services. When Adamson assumed sole ownership in 2021, preserving the founder’s name was a strategic decision.
It ensured stability and continuity for long-standing clients.
“With the passing of time and Tim’s retirement, our clients are well aware that I am now the sole owner,” Adamson explained.
After overcoming a significant medical event in late 2024, Adamson determined that it was a good time to make changes at the firm and move forward in 2025 with a new outlook.
“As we continue to welcome new clients, we will always pride ourselves on providing excellent service as much as we do our landscape architectural expertise. This principle remains at the core of our firm today; ensuring that our reputation is built not just on history but on the quality of work we deliver,” Adamson added.
The Adamson Group will continue to maintain the versatility for which the firm is well known. It possesses vast experience in the market, ranging from small retail pads to large master-planned communities, single-family residential, multi-family residential, commercial, industrial, and public works (including schools and city parks).
The company’s office is at 535 E. McKellips Road, Suite 131, Mesa, Arizona. For more information call (602) 997-9093, email Adamson at nick@adamsongroupaz.com, or visit www.adamsongroupaz.com.
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by Peter Madrid | May 13, 2025 | News & Updates
Scottsdale, Ariz. (May 13, 2025) – Scottsdale-based Land Advisors Organization announces that Mark Stratz has joined the firm as incoming President and member of the firm’s national executive leadership team. He is a real estate veteran, with over 27 years of experience in land development and commercial real estate.
He has extensive experience in land acquisition and disposition for various commercial real estate product types and markets. Additionally, he has experience developing and implementing technological products and data analysis tools, which are core aspects of Land Advisors Organization’s business model.
In his new role, Stratz will lead the firm’s national growth strategy, expanding into new markets as well as growing the firm’s presence in current markets through the addition of experienced producers. Key geographic regions of the expansion will be in the Southeastern and Western United States as well as growing the firm’s presence in the capital markets, site selection, and other market sectors.
Stratz will also work to strengthen collaboration among the firm’s 30 offices, market sectors and new Next-gen talent being recruited from around the nation. Additionally, Stratz will be focused on new innovations and integration of the Land Advisors Organization enterprise group of companies, which include Land Advisors Capital, Launch Development Finance Advisors, and Land Advisors Technologies.
“We are poised for exponential growth and having Mark on board to help execute our national growth strategy is very exciting,” said Greg Vogel, Founder and CEO of Land Advisors Organization. “Mark’s dynamic leadership skillset combined with his industry knowledge and inclusive leadership philosophy positions Land Advisors Organization and our family of companies to achieve our goals and offer more clients the advantage of our services.”
With Stratz joining the firm, the leadership team will have several transitions, including the firm’s current President and Chief Operating Officer Brian Rosener will become CEO and Vogel, the firm’s current CEO, becoming Chairman of the organization.
Prior to joining Land Advisors Organization, Stratz held leadership positions within the commercial real estate industry and has successfully developed teams, enhanced operations and implemented management platforms. He is currently a board member and vice chair with the Phoenix Community Alliance, and has been a national speaker for ULI, Solomon Coyle, ASID, and others for many years. He earned a Bachelor of Administration in Social Sciences and Marketing from Washington State University.
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; Greensville, South Carolina; Nashville, Tennessee; Boise, Idaho; Las Vegas, Nevada; Albuquerque, New Mexico; Denver, Colorado; Austin, Houston and Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas; Salt Lake City, Utah; Kansas City, Kansas; and Seattle, Washington. Stay connected with us on Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn.
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by Peter Madrid | May 12, 2025 | News & Updates
PHOENIX, ARIZ. (May 12, 2025) – A mixed-use waterfront experience that includes hospitality, residential, office, event space – and pickleball courts atop a parking garage – convinced the judges it was the winning project at the 12th annual REIAC/Rockefeller Group Challenge at the Arizona Biltmore Golf Club Adobe Bar & Grille.
Tidewalk Partners, with its dynamic Harbor & Rise development, took home the cash prize of $1,000 per team member among two graduating Masters of Real Estate Development (MRED) student teams from Arizona State University’s W. P. Carey School of Business.
The May 8 REIAC/Rockefeller Group Challenge featured a new twist – four “Real Estate Celebrity Judges.” Presentations were judged and the winning team was selected by industry leaders Sharon Harper, Plaza Companies; John Graham, Sunbelt Holdings; Charley Freericks, Howard Hughes Holdings, Inc.; and Heather Personne, Evolve Ventures.
This year’s project was a request for development proposals for the northeast and northwest corners of Rural Road and Rio Salado Parkway, gateway to the Novus Innovation Corridor in Tempe owned by ASU.
Harbor & Rise is conceived as a vibrant, connected waterfront district blending residential, office, and retail. It is inspired by The Wharf in Washington, D.C. It features a 250-key Corinthia Hotel, an event space called The Helm, Life Time Living Tempe, and two Class A office spaces, The Pinnacle and The Rise. And pickleball courts atop a parking garage. The Harbor & Rise Team was assisted by Geoff Bear of City Center, capital partner; John Kane, architect mentor; and Colin Smith of Krause Anderson, cost estimating mentor.
“We’re the only MRED program in the country that teaches like we do. This was the third project students pursued as part of the program; it’s a team experience and the most difficult of the three. In addition, we assign capital partners, architecture and cost-estimating mentors to each team. The students are not just solving a problem; they’re managing these perspectives. These are real problems, real projects,” explained Mark Stapp, director of the MRED program. “This is about learning. This was a great end to the program; a project that aligns with the vision for both ASU and the Novus Innovation District.
“It’s the faculty that provides the essential knowledge professionals rely on, and that was especially evident in this particular assignment. Both the mentors and students demonstrated exceptional dedication. This experience is as immersive and authentic as we can make it,” Stapp added.
The other finalist and its project:
♦️ HRBC Development, Novus Shores: Ryan Edwards, Hayley Ghormley, Bryan Tharalson, and Chandler Way presented Novus Shores, a 1.4 MSF mixed-use urban infill project located along Tempe Town Lake. It features three Class A office buildings, a 4+ star premium hotel, two multifamily towers, a senior living tower, and two floating conference spaces tethered to the dock by a walkway. The development also includes ground-floor retail. HRBC was assisted by Randy Levin, MLR Partners, capital partner; Buck Yee of The Davis Experience, architect mentor; and Gong Liu of McCarthy Building Companies, cost-estimating partner.
“The presentations continue to impress me with their depth and execution, showcasing the remarkable quality of ASU’s MRED program. Under the leadership of Mark Stapp and his dedicated faculty, the program consistently produces well-prepared graduates to make meaningful contributions to our industry,” said Mark Singerman, Rockefeller Group Vice President/Regional Director and past REIAC Southwest President. “Rockefeller Group is honored to be associated with such an outstanding program.”
About REIAC
The Real Estate Investment Advisory Council (REIAC) was established as a nonprofit trade association to provide a forum for the exchange of ideas, concerns and experiences among senior executives who conduct commercial real estate transactions. The invitation-only group limits its membership to senior-level executives at companies, who act as principals, and whose function is to develop, acquire, manage and/or finance commercial real estate. Institutional quality programs and peer-to-peer relationship-building opportunities have established REAIC’s reputation throughout the national real estate investment community as one of its premier associations. www.reiac.org
About MRED
In nine months, the W. P. Carey Master of Real Estate Development (MRED) prepares students to lead real development projects that are environmentally respectful, socially responsible, and artfully designed. The MRED program is transdisciplinary, aligning principled instruction with dynamic real-world application. MRED is a unique partnership between four highly regarded schools within Arizona State University:
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by Peter Madrid | May 8, 2025 | News & Updates
PHOENIX, ARIZ. (May 8, 2025) – Commercial real estate’s leading annual awards ceremony, the Best of NAIOP, celebrated 30 years of recognizing the top-performing people, companies, and projects of 2024 on May 1 at the Arizona Financial Theatre in Downtown Phoenix.
The Arizona Chapter of NAIOP bestowed awards in 36 categories before a crowd of 1,030 commercial real estate professionals.
“I want to extend heartfelt congratulations to all of this year’s BON30 award winners, and sincere thanks to every nominee for your outstanding submittals. Your hard work not only strengthens NAIOP as an organization but also plays a vital role in shaping the future of our communities,” said Best of NAIOP Chairman Korey Wilkes of Butler Design Group. “A special thank you to the NAIOP Board of Directors, our dedicated committee, tireless volunteers, and the entire NAIOP membership for making this celebration possible. With a new venue, a reimagined format, and a unique culinary experience – all firsts for the event – we embraced something bold and different. From the live music to the unforgettable skits, the energy in the room spoke for itself. It was truly an amazing evening.”
NAIOP Arizona kicked off the evening with the prestigious Award of Excellence. This year’s recipient was Mike Haenel, an Executive Vice Chair with Cushman & Wakefield. Haenel, a former NAIOP Arizona Chair, possesses more than 40 years of experience in the sale and leasing of industrial/back-office buildings and land throughout Arizona.
Company winners were ViaWest Group, Firm of the Year; Prologis, Industrial Owner/Developer of the Year; Lincoln Property Company, Office Owner/Developer of the Year; High Street Residential/Trammell Crow Company, Multifamily Owner/Developer of the Year for the second straight year; Layton Construction, General Contractor of the Year; Stevens-Leinweber Construction, Inc., Tenant Improvement Contractor of the Year; Deutsch Architecture Group, Architect of the Year; Phoenix Design One, Inc., Interior Architect of the Year for the second straight year; and Suntec Concrete, Subcontractor of the Year, also for the second year in a row.
In the brokerage awards, CBRE was Brokerage Firm of the Year with four individual/team winners; Cushman & Wakefield had two individual/team winners.
Multifamily Project of the Year: Skye on 6th, Clayco
In the project awards, Transaction of the Year went to The Beam, Newmark; Economic Impact went to Child Crisis Arizona, Chasse Building Team; Redevelopment Project of the Year went to Arizona Biltmore Golf Club Renovations, Sundt Construction; Retail Project of the Year went to The Trailhead, Butler Design Group; and Large Spec Industrial of the Year went to C|303 Phase I, Stevens-Leinweber Construction, Inc.
“Best of NAIOP’s 30th anniversary event was a special evening celebrating our industry’s finest. NAIOP is privileged to honor our Award of Excellence Winner Mike Haenel of Cushman & Wakefield, and all of our winners and nominees,” said 2025 NAIOP Arizona Board Chair Phil Breidenbach with Colliers. “Korey and his committee produced a lively and entertaining show that us all in stitches. We can’t wait until next year.
Best of NAIOP Arizona winners, celebrating accomplishments in 2024
Award of Excellence
Mike Haenel, Cushman & Wakefield
Company Awards
Architect of the Year: Deutsch Architecture Group
Brokerage Firm of the Year: CBRE
Firm of the Year: ViaWest Group
General Contractor of the Year: Layton Construction
Industrial Owner/Developer of the Year: Prologis
Interior Architect of the Year: Phoenix Design One
Multifamily Owner/Developer of the Year: High Street Residential/Trammell Crow Company
Office Owner/Developer of the Year: Lincoln Property Company
Retail Owner/Developer of the Year: Barclay Group
Subcontractor/Vendor Firm of the Year: Suntec Concrete
Tenant Improvement Contractor of the Year: Stevens-Leinweber Construction, Inc.
Title/Escrow Firm of the Year: Chicago Title Arizona
Individual/Team Awards
Developing Leader of the Year: Lauren Lovell, CBRE
Emerging Broker of the Year: Jonathan Teeter, CBRE
Healthcare Broker of the Year: Kidder Mathews Healthcare Advisory Services, Kidder Mathews
Industrial Broker of the Year: Mike Haenel, Andy Markham and Phil Haenel, Cushman & Wakefield
Investment Broker of the Year: Will Strong, Cushman & Wakefield
Multifamily Broker of the Year: Asher Gunter, Matt Pesch, Sean Cunningham and Austin Groen, CBRE
Office Broker of the Year: Williams, Medley, Corney, Robinson, Setnar Team, JLL Phoenix
Retail Broker of the Year: Neil Board, Western Retail Advisors
Tenant Representative Broker of the Year: Chuck Nixon, Dave Barrett, Mike Ragland and Michael Sokol, CBRE
Project Awards
Economic Impact Project of the Year: Child Crisis Arizona, Chasse Building Team
Industrial Build-to-Suit Project of the Year <500,000: Pima DC 1, Prologis
Industrial Build-to-Suit Project of the Year >500,000: Sub-Zero, ViaWest Group
Industrial Tenant Improvement Project of the Year: Parts Town @ C|303, Stevens-Leinweber Construction, Inc.
Medical Office Project of the Year: One Scottsdale Medical, Ryan Companies US, Inc.
Multifamily Project of the Year: Skye on 6th, Clayco
Office Build-to-Suit Project of the Year: Tempe Vale, Butler Design Group
Office Tenant Improvement Project of the Year <50,000 SF: SmithGroup Phoenix, SmithGroup
Office Tenant Improvement Project of the Year >50,000 SF: Union Building 1 Amenity, Lincoln Property Company
Redevelopment Project of the Year: Arizona Biltmore Golf Club Renovations, Sundt Construction
Retail Project of the Year: The Trailhead, Butler Design Group
Spec Industrial Project of the Year <500,000 SF: Caliber by Greystar, Greystar
Spec Industrial Project of the Year >500,000: C|303 Phase I, Stevens-Leinweber Construction, Inc.
Transaction of the Year: The Beam, Newmark
Spec Industrial Project of the Year More than500,000 SF: C|303 Phase I, Stevens-Leinweber Construction, Inc.
About NAIOP
NAIOP, a 20,000+ member organization in North America provides unparalleled industry networking and education, and advocates for effective legislation on behalf of its members. It is the leading association for developers, owners and related professionals in office, industrial, retail, multifamily and mixed-use real estate. The Arizona Chapter represents over 1,000 members and is among the largest in the 50+ network.
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by Peter Madrid | May 8, 2025 | News & Updates
SCOTTSDALE, ARIZ. (May 8, 2025) – Trailblazing environmental, natural resources, and energy attorney Michelle De Blasi is marking a major milestone by celebrating her firm’s fifth anniversary, while also celebrating a series of prestigious achievements and industry recognitions that underscore her impact and expertise.
The Law Office of Michelle De Blasi was founded on May 1, 2020. De Blasi focuses on business strategy by helping clients in a broad array of industries complete their projects from start to finish, overseeing all aspects of permitting, while assessing business risks and hitting milestones on time and on budget.
De Blasi possesses decades of experience assisting clients with obtaining successful results with their environmental, natural resource, and energy projects. She has led numerous large-scale, complex environmental remediation enforcement and brownfield cases, and has completed environmental compliance, due diligence, and permitting for some of the largest industrial facilities under development in the Valley.
De Blasi holds a strong belief that success is best measured by making a positive difference in the lives of others. She is proud of the legacy she is building in partnership with Arizona State University’s Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law Mentorship Initiative for Sustainability Law (MISL).
This year the program celebrated its 10th anniversary of linking experienced attorneys with law students studying within the Program on Law and Sustainability. As a mentor to the next generation of women attorneys, De Blasi advises students and young attorneys on how to find their purpose and passion in the practice of law.
“The MISL program was created to offer opportunities for lawyers to provide one-on-one professional guidance and to share practical knowledge and skills with second- and third-year law students, which offers career advice and opens doors to a professional network,” De Blasi said. “I’m very grateful and honored to have helped grow the MISL program to assist a decade of students in finding their footing in the competitive fields of environmental, energy and water law, and to see some of those former mentees pay it forward by becoming mentors.”
“Michelle has been a vital part of ASU’s MISL program since its inception more than a decade ago,” said Professor Troy Rule, the Joseph Feller Memorial Chair in Law and Sustainability and Faculty Director of the Law and Sustainability Program at ASU Law. “The program could never have involved so many attorneys and served so many law students without her. Dozens of young environmental and energy lawyers across the Valley have benefited from Michelle’s leadership and generosity.”
Recognizing a need to support women entering the legal industry, De Blasi established The Women’s Professional Power Scholarship at ASU’s law school in 2021.
“The scholarship endowment is awarded each year for 5 years to provide need-based educational scholarship funds to women law students entering the legal field,” De Blasi said. “The scholarship is one additional opportunity where I can support women entering the legal industry.”
When she launched her firm five years ago, De Blasi already had a successful practice built on her decades of experience and relationships assisting clients obtain successful results with their environmental, natural resource, and energy projects. She brought many years of government and “Big Law” experience to her own firm to provide more effective client service at a lower cost.
“The legal market continues to change, and I’m fortunate to be able to provide my clients, who have some of the world’s most complex environmental and energy matters, with more efficient and focused legal services and strategic partnerships,” she said. “My practice has also been strengthened by the ability to partner with many different law firms of all sizes who do not have counsel with my areas of expertise.”
De Blasi advises clients on state and federal environmental regulatory levels with her depth of knowledge in a wide array of environmental and natural resource law issues. Throughout her many years of experience on the energy side of her practice, De Blasi has advised clients on due diligence, permitting, siting, and contractual agreements for energy generation projects, both traditional and alternative energy, as well as carbon emissions tracking and reporting.
With the vast amount of industrial growth in Arizona, De Blasi has been at the center of trying to solve the energy constraint issues, which has proved to be invaluable to assist her numerous clients with their projects, whether they are utilizing the energy or generating it. De Blasi is a frequent author and speaker on environmental and energy issues. She also hosts the annual Southwest Energy Conference, which brings together energy industry experts from the Southwest region to address the many challenges and opportunities facing the energy market.
De Blasi is celebrating her 14th year as the Executive Director of the Arizona Energy Consortium (AEC), a non-profit trade organization that connects energy industry leaders and provides a clear, credible voice for Arizona’s growing energy industry. Under De Blasi’s leadership, the AEC has helped achieve increased development for Arizona and the greater Southwest region by supporting a diverse energy mix, a strong base of manufacturing facilities, an increase in higher-wage jobs, and world-class research institutions.
“Michelle has done a phenomenal job at leading on topics important to the industry,” said Chairman Kevin Thompson of the Arizona Corporation Commission. “Her willingness to push the envelope on addressing the energy needs of large users has made her a champion for Arizona’s economic vitality. I’m happy to lend my support to Michelle as she strives to be part of the solution.”
For more than a decade, De Blasi has been recognized for her excellence in providing legal services in the environmental and energy legal fields in Chambers USA®, Best Lawyers in America®, Southwest Super Lawyers® and as an Environmental Law Business Leader in AzBusiness Magazine®.
In addition to her roles as founder of the AEC, MISL program and Women’s Professional Power Scholarship, De Blasi is also active in other industry organizations, including serving as a Board member and past president of the Phoenix Parks Foundation; Member of the Arizona State University Council on Law and Sustainability Studies (CLASS); Member of the Grand Canyon University Colangelo College of Business Advisory Board; and Member of the Drylands Alliance for Addressing Water Needs (DAAWN) Board of Directors.
For more information visit mdb-law.com.
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by Peter Madrid | May 7, 2025 | News & Updates
PHOENIX, ARIZONA – Wespac Construction, Inc. is proud to announce the successful completion of Marbella Northern Parkway Phase 1, a LEED-certified project and the first step in a six-building, 51-acre industrial park master-planned for Northern Parkway and Dysart Road in Glendale, Arizona.
Developed by Panattoni Development Company and designed by Ware Malcomb, this transformative project delivers 445,000 SF of high-quality industrial space across three tilt-panel buildings.
Each building features two prominent storefront entrances and a north-facing spec suite, designed with architectural flair. Elements like ACM eyebrow accents and wall wash lighting at entrances create a dynamic visual identity, making entry points distinct and inviting. The docking sides are fully outfitted with automatic ramp-up doors, dock doors with mechanical levelers, and designated semi-truck parking for optimal logistics functionality.
The interiors blend industrial efficiency with elevated aesthetics. Finished with solid core walnut doors framed in matte black, the spaces also feature modern touches like tile backsplashes and restroom accent tile. LVT oak planks stretch through open office areas, complemented by plastic laminate millwork with quartz countertops and discreetly placed concealed sprinkler heads.
Strategically located on a Maricopa County Island, Phase 1 posed unique geotechnical challenges due to its position on a large fissure zone. Overcoming these complexities required extensive over-excavation and comprehensive water mitigation efforts, including the use of filter fabric and geo-grid, caulking at all PCCP joints, and site-wide stabilization measures beneath asphalt and wet utilities.
“We are thrilled to deliver this first phase of what promises to be a premier industrial hub in the West Valley,” said Matt McPherron, Wespac Senior Project Manager. “This project really shows off what can happen when innovation, sustainability, and teamwork come together, and it’s just the beginning of what’s ahead in the next phases.”
Marbella Northern Parkway Phase 1 demonstrates the potential for high-functioning, aesthetically driven industrial development in the greater Phoenix metro, with Phase 2 and beyond set to continue raising the bar.
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
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