New developer engaged at northeast corner project in Carefree

The northeast corner of Carefree Highway and Cave Creek Road is a potential site for economic development within the Town of Carefree.

The Town has been actively working with the property owner, Empire Group of Companies and a developer to bring a  project to this location.

Following the decision by the previous development team to discontinue their plans, the Town announced at the April 7 Town Council meeting that a new developer, SimonCRE, is currently working with the property owner.

Represented by Western Retail Advisors, a marketing brochure outlining the vision for the property has been released and is available on its  website w-retail.com.

Western Retail Advisors noted that the project is expected to be anchored by a national grocer, currently at lease, and will serve as the retail destination in the Carefree/Cave Creek corridor.

Carefree Mayor John Crane noted, "We are excited to be working with SimonCRE. While there remains much work to be done, we are hopeful that our patience will be rewarded with a prestigious retail center that will make all of us proud.”

The Town of Carefree is actively collaborating with SimonCRE to advance plans for a retail development that aligns with the community’s character and long-term vision.

Additional updates will be shared as the project progresses.