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A Brilliant Idea for Tucson/U of Arizona Collaboration Downtown

By
Real Estate Agent with Realty One Group Mountain Desert AZDRE# SA582422000

Meet Me Downtown! script logo for Tucson Downtown PartnershipYesterday, I was at a brown-bag think session with members of the Tucson Downtown Partnership, Metropolitan Pima Alliance and Southern Arizona Home Builders Association.  What we were learning about was a draft proposal for invigorating Tucson's core that the Downtown Partnership is working on - which is very impressive & well thought-out. 

One of the beautiful things of luncheons like these are the ideas that flow from them...and this one had a beauty pop up!

Scott Greenburg had an idea that really made sense to a lot of people (myself included) that would do a lot of good in a variety of ways - private developers build apartments in downtown Tucson or the 4th Avenue area, but with no parking spaces...and lease the building to the University of Arizona for student housing.

  • University of Arizona needs student housing, but is landlocked
  • U of A and the City of Tucson are looking for ways to utilize Downtown together
  • No parking facilities will keep the cost down & encourage use of public transportation (plus campus is a walkable or bicycle distance anyhow)...and these areas are right where the new streetcar route is going
  • A no-car dorm is very parent-friendly
  • Everything a student would need is very accessible by either walking, biking or public transport - including the entertainment venues that students already frequent

Metropolitan Pima Alliance logo    Southern Arizona Homebuilders Association logo

After mulling over Mr. Greenburg's idea some more, the brilliance of it really stands out.  Perhaps having the street-level as retail & restaurants could further add value to all sides.  Town/Gown relationships would have a great opportunity to grow even futher.

Now if only we can get the department of frozen molasses, I mean, the planning & zoning department to pull their heads out & look at something practical for a change, this could really work!

Anyone care to share examples from your corner of the world?

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Comments (2)

Dale Baker
Baker Energy Audits and Commercial Properties Inspections - Claremont, NH
New Hampshire Relocation Real Estate Information

Howdy there Kent

Came by to see what you have been doing lately. This sure does sound like a mighty fine plan, they are working on, there in Tucson.

My friend, we sure do need to have more of your really fine blog writing and posting, here in the ActiveRain community. Hopen to see you as active as before.

If I can ever be of any help with the new things going on here at ActiveRain, just let me know, and it will be my pleasure to give you a helping hand.

Baker Home Inspection and Consulting AR Signature

Sep 08, 2009 03:55 PM
Dale Baker
Baker Energy Audits and Commercial Properties Inspections - Claremont, NH
New Hampshire Relocation Real Estate Information

Howdy there Kent

Just seen your new HD photo, it sure is a mighty fine one of ya, my friend

All of us here in the ActiveRain community, sure do need and want you to come back, and start writing those fine blog posts of yours. We need fine bloggers as yourself here in the community. So the newer members, and the members that have been here for a bit, can learn from one of the best.

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Oct 01, 2009 10:07 AM