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Former Arizona Cardinal Meets with City Staff on Development Opportunity in Laveen
November 04 , 2006 by Kathleen GordenOn Nov. 2 at Phoenix City Hall, Emmitt Smith, former Arizona Cardinal’s running back, and finalist on ABC television’s “Dancing with the Stars,” met with members of the city of Phoenix Development Services Department to discuss plans for a commercial project on 35th and Southern Avenues in the Laveen area of Phoenix.
“We currently are building three other projects in the market,” says Pat Sauer, vice president and director of development, Cypress Equities. “This is a great market with big growth.”
The proposed retail center is Emmitt Smith’s first commercial development project as part of the joint-venture agreement with Cypress Equities.
“We want to bring something special to the Laveen area,” Smith said. As for why he chose Phoenix as the site of his first project, “I’ve always loved Phoenix."
Derek Horn, deputy director of the Commercial Services Division of Development Services is responsible for plan review and inspections for all components and phases of commercial development and construction. Horn led the meeting that included key members of his team.
“We are excited about the project,” Horn said. “This is a major project in a good location. We will do everything possible to help the project run smoothly.”
As for Smith’s night job on ABC’s “Dancing with the Stars,” it’s down to the final three and the former NFL champ says he is going for the gold.
“I practiced yesterday with Cheryl (Burke, his professional dance partner),” he said.
