Walton submits redevelopment plans for Smoke Tree Resort

Application calls for 82-room boutique resort

“I have lived in Paradise Valley for 15 years. The area deserves to see this once grand property transformed into an upscale and welcoming resort and culinary experience that reflects the high standards of Paradise Valley, its residents, and its visitors. We heard the same thing from the hundreds of residents who attended our two major public events to seek input about what should be done at Smoke Tree.””

Matt Keister, executive vice president, Walton Global

Scottsdale-based real estate investment and land asset management company, Walton Global, has submitted an application with the Town of Paradise Valley to redevelop Smoke Tree Resort on Lincoln Road.

The development team was sensitive to the needs and concerns of the surrounding area and its residents, according to a press release, which is why it held two public events to gain input and feedback.

The result is a proposed 82-room boutique resort with two culinary concepts — an all-day market bistro and a dinner-only fine dining restaurant spearheaded by local chef Matt Carter, restaurateur and partner of The Mission, Zinc Bistro & Fat Ox.

The application was submitted Feb. 17 to the Town of Paradise Valley, the press release stated.

The Smoke Tree Resort was originally built in 1954. It enjoyed a storied heyday but as the decades passed and trends changed, the resort fell into disrepair and eventually into bankruptcy. It has been shuttered for several years and its restaurant has been vacant for more than 10 years. The property continued to deteriorate, creating a prominent eyesore facing Lincoln Drive.

Walton Global purchased the five-acre property in June 2022 with the intent of creating a modern boutique resort that respects and reflects Paradise Valley’s history.

In addition to boutique guest rooms and two new dining experiences, the proposal also calls for:

•  A centralized pool and amenity area surrounded by guestrooms.
•  Five guest casitas with private plunge pools.
•  Landscaping to create shaded pedestrian-focused spaces.
•  Underground parking.

“I have lived in Paradise Valley for 15 years. The area deserves to see this once grand property transformed into an upscale and welcoming resort and culinary experience that reflects the high standards of Paradise Valley, its residents, and its visitors. We heard the same thing from the hundreds of residents who attended our two major public events to seek input about what should be done at Smoke Tree,” said Walton Global Executive Vice President Matt Keister.

The application reportedly does not include elements that have challenged Smoke Tree and other hotel redevelopments in the past such as roof top bars, condominiums, for-sale units, and excessive height and density.

“It’s long past time for this neglected property in Paradise Valley to be revitalized and reimagined. I love these plans for a tasteful, beautiful boutique hotel inclusive of a new restaurant by a group we all know and respect,” said Clay Coady, a Paradise Valley resident and owner of the neighboring Applewood Pet Resort.

The redevelopment was designed by professionals including Allen-Philp, an architectural firm based in Scottsdale with a hotel portfolio that includes The Sanctuary, The Boulders, Fairmont Princess, and several other award-winning hotel properties.

“This is a win for all concerned. As the gateway to the town, we are excited to see this site revived with a modern boutique resort designed with input from neighbors and designed with residents as well as visitors in mind. Our goal is to establish this property as ‘Paradise Valley’s Living Room’ and bring new life to this special place,” said Walton Global CEO Bill Doherty.

We’d like to invite our readers to submit their civil comments, pro or con, on this issue. Email AZOpinions@iniusa.org.