In a bid to make Phoenix a top-tier destination for entertainment, the city is eyeing a major move towards revitalizing its downtown core. The Phoenix City Council is set to ponder a one-year contract with HR&A Advisors Inc., a national consulting firm with a track record of sprucing up entertainment districts across North America, as reported by ABC15. This contract, pitched at $529,000, is aimed at transforming downtown Phoenix into a hotspot brimming with attractions for both desert dwellers and out-of-towners.

The council's consideration of the contract is set for the March 20 meeting, with expectations of invigorating the area around the Phoenix Convention Center. HR&A's footprint extends to cities like Cincinnati, Detroit, Philadelphia, and Toronto, and is now set to bring its expertise to the Valley of the Sun. Engaging a firm with such experience, the city hopes to carve out a space characterized by a mix of restaurants, bars, stories-high attractions, and the flair of street performers, as stated by The Business Journal.

Aside from the downtown district charm offensive, HR&A Advisors has put its imprint on Arizona soil via flagship projects like Mesa City Center's design concept and the master plan for Margaret T. Hance Park in Phoenix. In the wider scope of its contract, which includes two additional one-year renewal options, HR&A will handle duties ranging from project management to feasibility reports and community involvement.

By midyear, Phoenicians can expect to see efforts materializing as community outreach and analyses get underway, leading to a draft plan by autumn. The finalized proposal is slated to be ready by the end of the year. The city also has its sights set on expanding downtown's central business district boundaries, a decision that lies in the hands of the City Council with a vote scheduled on April 17, as detailed by The Business Journal.

It's not just entertainment on the agenda, but the allure of a vibrant, pedestrian-friendly area. Phoenix looks to spur economic growth and, elevate its standing amidst competing metropolises by providing locals and visitors alike with an enhanced downtown atmosphere. The city issued a request for proposals back in September and, after a selection process that concluded in December, HR&A Advisors emerged as the front-runner among five contenders. The city's economic development and housing subcommittee gave the nod to the contract in a meeting held February 14, setting the stage for the upcoming City Council vote.