A unique mixed-use project that could eventually see the construction of a sports stadium, combined with office and hotel space, has been announced for the Scottsdale metro area.
What is being called Akimel 7 will be built on more than 550 primarily vacant acres near the busy Loop 101 and Loop 202 exchanges, about 7 miles to the southeast of downtown Scottsdale.
That site is owned by the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community.
The project is being spearheaded by the Scottsdale-based Solana Group, and will also include at least a dozen sports fields and open space that may be used for special events.
To be privately funded, Akimel 7 has a long build-out schedule of up to 10 years, with a price tag that could ultimately near the $4 billion mark.
For several years, the site was been regarded by investors as prime for development, with plans for a football stadium and film studio never materializing.
As currently envisioned, Akimel 7 would combine sports and entertainment amenities with facility space for sports medicine and technology.
Work on the first phase of the project, on some 220 acres at the site, could launch later this year.
By Garry Boulard
