Tempe faces a housing crunch, but I see opportunity where others see a dilemma. I’m sharing a bold vision to address our housing needs while preserving our city’s character and fostering economic vitality. Here’s what I believe is a clear plan to tackle the density dilemma head-on, balancing innovation with practicality.
First, let’s address the state’s new middle housing mandate. Arizona’s recent legislation requires cities to allow multi-use residential development, like duplexes and triplexes, on single-family lots.
Tempe’s Community Development Department has proposed a Middle Housing Overlay District, focusing on a one-mile radius around the downtown business district, as confirmed by city zoning plans.
This aligns with the Tempe General Plan 2050, recently passed to guide our growth. I support this targeted approach. By testing middle housing in this district, we can evaluate its impact — will it deliver affordable infill development, or could it lead to out-of-character fourplexes disrupting neighborhoods?
I’m optimistic that undeveloped lots, like one near Palmer Park in my neighborhood, can become duplexes or triplexes that blend seamlessly. If successful, we can consider zoning changes to expand middle housing citywide, but only with proven results and community input.
Second, I propose a transformative solution for Tempe’s housing and economic future: courting a major semiconductor company to develop the vacant Arizona Coyotes arena site. Inspired by Axon’s project in Scottsdale, this development could include a corporate headquarters, high-quality housing, and vibrant food, drink and cultural spaces.
This would create well-paying jobs for ASU engineering graduates, address housing shortages and activate a neglected corner of Tempe currently used as a trash dump.
Additionally, I advocate rethinking downtown’s artificial height caps. With infrastructure like light rail, streetcars and Orbit lines already in place, taller buildings downtown make sense to maximize housing without disrupting neighborhoods. We should stick to the General Plan 2050 for residential areas, focusing density where it belongs.
Finally, how about a forward-thinking vision to make Tempe a dynamic, livable city. Imagine Mill Avenue with open-container policies on game days, buzzing with energy. Picture Danelle Plaza transformed into a mini-Austin or Nashville, with live music nightly at multiple venues.
These ideas, paired with strategic development like a semiconductor headquarters, would be difference-makers. I also see untapped potential in condos and townhomes with affordable ownership options that foster long-term community roots. Supporting state efforts to reduce condo development insurance requirements from eight to four years could unlock this market, encouraging developers to build in Tempe.
Tempe’s density dilemma is a chance to innovate. By thoughtfully implementing middle housing, pursuing bold economic projects and reimagining our cultural spaces, we can create a vibrant, affordable and thriving city. I’d love to make this vision a reality, and I invite Tempe residents to join me in shaping our future.
Editor’s note: Joe Forte is a veteran, small business owner and candidate for Tempe City Council.Please send your comments to AzOpinions@iniusa.org. We are committed to publishing a wide variety of reader opinions, as long as they meet our Civility Guidelines.
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