Breakground Marks Start of Large-Scale Entertainment District near Tucson
Construction has begun on a massive sports and entertainment district on Tucson's south side, with the groundbreaking ceremony marking the start of the Mosaic Quarter project. The $425 million development, which will span 90 acres near Kino Parkway and Interstate 10, promises to bring exciting new amenities and venues to the area.
The first phase of the project, unveiled today by developer Mosaic Quarter Development and Knott Development, includes two anchor facilities: MQ Iceplex, a 175,000-square-foot arena featuring three ice rinks for activities such as hockey, figure skating, and kids' games; and MQ Field House, an indoor sports hub with interchangeable flooring systems for multiple sports uses.
The complex will also feature a gas-fed cogeneration facility tied to a solar farm, which will produce power and chilled water for the campus. "We are thrilled to embark on this exciting journey and bring Mosaic Quarter to life," said Frank Knott, CEO of Mosaic Quarter Development. "This project represents a significant investment in our community and will have a lasting impact on the region's economy and quality of life."
When completed, the complex is expected to boast three hotels, 10 restaurants with outdoor seating, lounge spaces, and a splashpad and playground within the MQ Pavilion. The shaded lawn will feature a stage for movies or performing arts productions, open to the public free of charge.
Mosaic Quarter's offices, Knott Development headquarters, and the Mosaic Foundation will also be located on the campus. In partnership with Pima Community College, Knott Development has donated a 5,000-square-foot space for the school to establish a student-operated restaurant.
The project was approved by the Pima County Board of Supervisors in the summer, which secured a 40-year lease worth $565,000 per year. The master ground lease term is projected to generate $2.3 billion in net cash flow over its lifespan.
Completion of the Iceplex, Field House and utility plant is expected by 2026, bringing Mosaic Quarter one step closer to becoming a world-class entertainment district.