Phoenix pursues deal with Mortenson for prime desert land development

Article originally posted on HERE on August 25, 2025

Millions of square feet of new commercial development could rise in north Phoenix.

The city of Phoenix is pursuing a development agreement with Minnesota-based real estate developer Mortenson for a site of prime desert land formerly eyed by the Phoenix Coyotes for a proposed hockey arena. In June, Mortenson placed the winning bid in an Arizona State Trust land auction, paying $136 million for the 217.16-acre site located west of North Scottsdale Road and north of Loop 101.

Mortenson’s plans for the overall site include five million square feet of commercial space, according to a Phoenix City Council agenda item to be discussed Aug. 27. The first phase of development is set to feature a 30-acre mixed-use spec office campus.