The Local, a new, mixed-use development located at the intersection of University Drive and Ash Avenue in downtown Tempe, has officially broken ground. Developed by Denver-based Forum Real Estate Group, The Local will be a unique, luxury apartment residence anchored by Whole Foods Market 365.

The nine-story structure sits on an 80,938-square foot parcel in the heart of downtown Tempe. Occupying the ground floor will be a Whole Foods Market 365 with three levels of parking directly above: one level with reserved parking for Whole Foods Market 365 shoppers, and two additional levels of parking reserved for residents. The remaining five floors will house 286 residential apartments, averaging 739 square feet per unit.

Studio, one-, two- and three-bedroom floorplans will be available, all appointed with high-end finishes and sophisticated accents that blend vintage inspiration with modern design to offer Tempe residents something truly unique. The Local’s overall design blends exposed concrete and brick, distressed and rich wood tones, and living plant and art details to create a warm, authentic and welcoming vibe. 

The Local will feature such five-star amenities as:

  • Resort-style, variable depth pools including a bubbling jet water table and hot tub
  • Lushly landscaped pool courtyard with mister-equipped cabanas, covered grilling and dining areas, sunbathing decks, outdoor TV wall, and indoor/outdoor bar
  • Sound-proof karaoke/music/entertainment lounge with views and access to the outdoor courtyard
  • Expansive fitness studio equipped with the latest cardio, weight and circuit training equipment
  • Separate yoga/barre/Zen studio with outdoor terrace
  • Cantilevered, eighth floor game and clubroom space overlooking University Drive
  • Intimate ninth floor rooftop sky lounge with dual-sided fireplace, catering prep kitchen, entertainment/lounge space and outdoor drink rail to capture the breathtaking views

“We are so excited to bring this offering to Tempe,” said David Clock, Development Manager at Forum Real Estate Group. “This project is the perfect fit for such a vibrant city, and we’re honored to have a presence in this community. It’s our goal that The Local and the Whole Foods Market 365 will become a true neighborhood destination.”

Whole Foods Market 365 stores focus on an affordable and convenient shopping destination. The design, technology and carefully curated product selection at Whole Foods Market 365 stores provides a streamlined and modern experience for customers, while still adhering to Whole Foods Market’s industry-leading quality standards. Customers can look forward to unique in-store venues with the “Friends of 365” program and the free 365 Rewards program to save even more.

“We are thrilled to announce that our region’s first Whole Foods Market 365 in Arizona store will be located in Tempe,” said Patrick Bradley, president, Whole Foods Market Southern Pacific Region. “Our 365 stores deliver the same quality that our customers have come to expect, but in a convenient and fun new format that provides exceptional value.”

“Our residents have been asking for a major grocery store in downtown Tempe for more than a decade and Whole Foods Market 365 is a perfect fit for The Local,” said Tempe Mayor Mark Mitchell. “This development will build on the great urban living experience Tempe has to offer and brings together urban living and needed amenities in our downtown, just steps away from vibrant Mill Avenue restaurants and bars, some of our biggest employers and recreation at Tempe Town Lake.”

At a groundbreaking ceremony, stakeholders, including Tempe Mayor Mark Mitchell; Tempe City Council; and, representatives from Forum Real Estate Group, Whole Foods Market 365, and zoning attorneys for the project, Sender Associates, buried a time capsule that will be unearthed in 20 years containing a variety of local artifacts to commemorate the City’s rich history. Many items for the time capsule were provided by the Tempe History Museum. Decorative shovels designed by local artists from the Art Resource Center were used to bury the time capsule and will later be displayed as an art installation within The Local.

Sender Associates, a Tempe-based zoning law firm completed the entitlements for the project. The general contractor for the project is JE Dunn Construction. The architects are Humphreys & Partners Architects, and interior design was done by ESG Architects.

Scheduled occupancy for The Local is the first quarter of 2019. Join in the conversation on social media with #TheLocalTempe. For more information, visit www.thelocaltempe.com.