The transformation of Litchfield Park’s raw desert into a walkable downtown corridor took a step forward as local officials and a long-standing resident family broke ground on Plaza del Parque.
The 8 a.m. ceremony marked the official start of construction on the project, formerly known during the planning phases as the Rudolfo Parcel.
Located at the corner of North Litchfield Road and West Village Parkway, the new three-story development represents the second major project to rise within Litchfield Square, the city’s ambitious 26-acre urban hub.
Owned and developed by Litchfield Park residents Mike and Nelly Rudolfo, the project is a personal milestone for the family.
"This is a big accomplishment for the generation before us and the generation after, and I hope to inspire the generations to come," said Mark Rudolfo, who delivered remarks on behalf of his father, Mike, before several generations of the family took up shovels. "I hope they continue the legacy."
When completed, Plaza del Parque will feature two levels of mixed-use retail and office spaces, capped by a third-level restaurant and an expansive 6,000-square-foot outdoor dining patio. The architectural design uses a zero-lot-line approach to place the building close to the street for an integrated, urban feel, balanced by a stepped-back third floor to reduce visual mass.
Mayor Thomas Schoaf celebrated the Rudolfos' dedication to a project that he said had been in development for more than three years.
"It speaks volumes… to have members of your community be so supportive of the lifestyle and unique nature that they will invest their money and legacy here."
The project’s architect and designer, Timothy Wood, said the building was engineered for the ages, aiming to blend shops, offices and community spaces in the classic Santa Monica architectural style surrounding Litchfield Park.
"This building won't just serve us today," Wood said. "It will be standing 300 years from now."
For city leadership, the concrete pouring will be a welcome sight. City Manager Matthew Williams said that just five years ago, the site was an overgrown desert lot used primarily as a hideout for police radar.
"This development realizes the city's long-term vision of mixed-use spaces," Williams said, "This development is a strategic investment in Litchfield Park’s future representing economic vitality, enhancing our lifestyle with long term sustainability.”
James Goldmeer Reporter | Goodyear & Litchfield Park
Meet James James Goldmeer joined Independent Newsmedia, Inc., USA, in July 2024, starting their career as a reporter in Goodyear and Litchfield Park.
Community: James grew up in the West Valley, calling Avondale home and going to school in Glendale and Peoria. Returning to the community after university, James plans to get involved in everything arts and culture, and civil rights.
Education: Northern Arizona University a bachelor's degree in Journalism, a certificate in Professional Communications, with a minor in English.
Random Fact: James spent half a year as an intern for the Arizona House of Representatives communication team, working with legislators to inform the public through press releases and social media.
Hobbies: James collects postcards and old books, reads memoirs and attends local jazz shows.
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