Arizona home development's course changes with downturn

On the western edge of metro Phoenix, nearly 2,000 homes surround a small downtown. Spanish- and Craftsman-style houses line the quiet side streets, their front porches facing out to greet visitors. Approaching from the Interstate 10 freeway, there's a view of the golf course with the White Tank Mountains in the background. The main road passes a community swimming pool. Closer to the mountains is a grassy field where dog owners go for jogs. In the center of town, a homey Main Street holds a coffee shop, wine bar and a grocery store. When Tracy Simmons stepped into the Bashas' store on a weekday afternoon, she passed shoppers picking up supplies for the evening. She is director of marketing for DMB, the developer that built this community, Verrado. "It's great Bashas' has been able to stay open here," she said, scanning the gleaming store.

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