Developer seeks city's OK to build offices near airpark

Scottsdale could green light an estimated $100 million project to erect the tallest office buildings in the airpark when the City Council meets April 26. It's a measure the developer says would bait large corporations to relocate and bring much needed high-paying jobs to the area. Development and property management firm Furst Properties LLC of Scottsdale is hankering for two high-end corporate office facilities with upper-executive suites that would tower over the raised adjacent Loop 101 near Princess Drive within the Perimeter Center business park. Despite opposition from businesses west of the site, Furst's request for building height restrictions to be raised from 36 feet to 65 feet to accommodate four- and five-story structures was recommended 5-0 by the planning commission in February. It will go for vote to council later this month. Construction wouldn't begin for another three or five years. "Everyone wants to be part of a strong commercial neighborhood, and everyone wants to be treated fairly," said Austin Furst president and founder of Furst Properties. "I think that what we worked out with the planning commission accomplishes that." Some nearby businesses, particularly the Hilton Garden Inn Scottsdale North on the parcel west to where the 65-foot building is proposed, argue those traveling on the freeway wouldn't be able to see their businesses. Businesses also worry their views of the McDowell Mountains would be blocked.

Click here to view this article from its source.