Glendale is undergoing yet another phase of expansion with new plans set to transform an expanse of old farmland into a bustling urban hub. Across from State Farm Stadium, near Loop 101, a 39-acre development is poised to thoroughly change the landscape. Aptly named Envision Encore, this project, according to a report by ABC15, is proposed to include a diversity of high-density multi-family housing, commercial space, and amenities such as hotels, childcare centers, music and dance schools, and recreation facilities.
The sentiment among Glendale residents is mixed, reflective of the development's potential to significantly reshape their community. Nory Mwangi's recent visit to the area captured an observation that buildings seem to be rapidly appearing. "I see buildings coming up and down every day, so it’s a lot of change,” she told ABC15. Jon Snover, a local resident, offered a different viewpoint, lamenting the new structures that increasingly obstruct mountain views. "A lot of new apartment complexes, you know, blocking the views of the mountains. It’s actually kind of disappointing to see," he said in a conversation with ABC15.
However, Crystal Gonzalez, a lifelong Glendale resident, is enthusiastic about seeing more family-oriented activities being developed in the vicinity. "A lot of big family stuff is like Chandler, Gilbert, all the way in the east side, and you got to drive far. So it’s kind of nice to see family stuff around here that’s not so far," she recounted to ABC15. On the topic of increased traffic that typically accompanies such developments, residents like Eddie Vazquez believe the existing freeways, particularly the 101, do an adequate job at managing traffic flow, with Vazquez telling ABC15 that, “101 is helping a lot, just to mediate the traffic. The 202 help tremendously.”
The Phoenix Business Journal provided additional detail, noting that the development's strategic position near the sports and entertainment district adds to its appeal. While the Glendale City Council has greenlit the rezoning necessary for Envision Encore, a search for a suitable developer remains ongoing. Parents like Mwangi are particularly receptive to the influx of opportunities, pointing to developments like the Cardinals stadium and new entertainment venues as positive contributions to the locale. "The Cardinals stadium is right here, there is also like jumping places right here, all brand-new. They’re still hiring people to do it. So I love it," Mwangi explained to ABC15. Snover, however, thinks the speed of development warrants caution, advocating for a more gradual approach: "I think just too much is going up too fast," he shared with the news outlet.
