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What to know about a planned north Phoenix shopping center

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What to know about a planned north Phoenix shopping center

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A Phoenix shopping center developer got approval from the Phoenix City Council to build a 20-acre retail development directly north of Pinnacle High School, despite some members of the community voicing their opposition.

Vestar, the developer of nearby Desert Ridge Marketplace and other open-air shopping centers around the Valley, is planning to develop Black Mountain Village, a grocery-anchored shopping center at Black Mountain Parkway and Deer Valley Road.

The proposal generated strong support and opposition.

What is proposed at Black Mountain Village?

The plans call for a grocery-anchored shopping center totaling about 160,000 square feet of buildings on a 20-acre site. The plan includes the grocery store, along with attached ancillary retail and five standalone buildings.

Have any of the businesses in the center been identified?

The names of the businesses that will locate at the site have not been announced, including which grocery store is planned.

Who owns the land?

The site is controlled by the Arizona State Land Department, and Vestar will have to bid on the land at a public auction in order to follow through with its plans. So far, an auction has not yet been scheduled.

Why were people opposed?

Eight members of the public spoke at the Phoenix Council meeting; most expressed opposition to the project, citing concerns about the proximity to the school, and worry about students crossing the street with increased traffic. James Tuffin, a neighbor, said he and others who oppose the project are concerned about the drive-thrus that are proposed on the site, and the traffic and litter that could come with them.

How did the council vote?

The Phoenix City Council voted unanimously in favor of the project.

When will construction start?

Construction on the site will likely begin in early 2026, Ryan Ash, vice president of development for Vestar, said, with businesses in the center expected to open in early 2028.

Reach the reporter at cvanek@arizonarepublic.com. Follow her on X, formerly Twitter: @CorinaVanek.

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