South Phoenix residents have criticized Scottsdale-based Pivot Development over the redevelopment of South Plaza for ignoring transit-oriented development framework.
The citywide plans suggest that developments in and around South Plaza be smaller than 40,000 square feet. The expected tenant, Mexican grocer El Super, would exceed 44,000 square feet, according to early plans.
The citywide Phoenix transit-oriented development plan sets goals and frameworks specific to neighborhoods to develop pedestrian and transit-friendly environments. But if a developer is operating within its property rights, there is not a concrete way for the city to stop them from ignoring those policies. This has led to repeated calls from south Phoenix residents and activists to make policy that will hold developers accountable.