TUCSON, Ariz. (KGUN) — Construction is about to begin on a massive sports and entertainment complex to be built on the South Side. This is a development that could have a major impact on the area.
In just a few days, the arid desert near Interstate 10 and Keno will become an indoor ice rink, a field house for a variety of indoor sports, and up to four restaurants.
After several years of planning, construction will begin next week on the first phase of Mosaic Quarter.
The location along I-10 is ideal for attracting large-scale sports tournaments from the Southwest United States.
Developer Frank Knott said Pima County is not putting any taxpayer money into the project, but is collecting significant funds over the 40-year life of the agreement.
“The County is involved in leasing the land for the construction and operation of Mosaic Quarter. The County does not participate in the debt. There are no bonds, no loans from the County, and no cash investments. and more than 25 million over 40 years from the operation of the site, with the county receiving 55 percent of the cash flow, totaling approximately $650 million.”
Knott predicts there will be up to 700 jobs at the site, with more jobs to come from the Business Mosaic Quarter.
This project responds to calls for more places for people to skate and play ice hockey, and provides space for events held in Phoenix.
Skaters should be able to take to the ice in a little over two years.
——-
Craig Smith is a reporter for KGUN 9. With more than 40 years of reporting in cities like Tampa, Houston, and Austin, Craig has covered more than 40 space shuttle launches and historic hurricanes like Katrina, Ivan, Andrew, and Hugo. Share your story ideas and important issues with Craig by emailing Craig.smith@kgun9.com or connecting on Facebook. Twitter.
