The city of Phoenix is considering rezoning land that would allow the Phoenician to build more condos near Camelback Mountain.
The current zoning for the Phoenician property is a hodgepodge going back to the 1970s. The redevelopment plan is to take the acreage equivalent of nine holes from the current 27-hole golf course and put up single family or town homes. That would significantly decrease open space.
John Pappas is a resident of Paradise Valley. He says there needs to be more public discussion on the development. He’s concerned that the Phoenician’s addition will affect public access to Camelback Mountain.
“We live in Arizona. Camelback Mountain is our recreational facility," Pappas said. "If the Phoenician wants to change the deal they made with the city when they developed it, I think the city should ask for something in return.”
Pappas thinks any new development should include easier access to trails for hikers.
The city has said it would like the Phoenician to maintain the open area.
EDITOR'S NOTE: This story has been revised to reflect that the issue has not yet come before the city council.
