By Mike Sunnucks | Rose Law Group Reporter
The Tempe City Council is forging ahead with its economic development efforts at the Smith Industrial Innovation Hub zone. The area is bounded by University Drive, Rio Salado Parkway, McClintock Drive. and the Loop 101 Freeway.
The council voted Feb. 11 to award a $184,867 professional services contract to HDR Engineering for infrastructure planning in the innovation zone.
The Smith Industrial Innovation Hub Initiative looks to bring more economic development and jobs to the 302-acre area.
The area has been home to light industrial uses. The city wants to see if it can bring a great diversity of industries and jobs to the area. The initiative is a pilot project that Tempe could look to replicate in other areas.
Tempe is looking to also make pedestrian and bike lane improvements in the innovation zone which also sits near Metro light rail and the planned streetcar line.
