Upton Sinclair once wrote a captivating American novel called The Jungle. Far more recently others have written about the municipal jungle known in Paradise Valley as Mountain Shadows.
It seemed to be to this community’s Los Arcos, a property always top of mind but without solution. But just as Scottsdale eventually lanced its boil, Paradise Valley may have more elegantly done so.
We have already written of the extraordinary challenge, followed by the extraordinary redevelopment approval engineered by the Town, property owner and neighbors, albeit the latter mostly kicking and screaming.
But now we learn this local jungle may have a neighborly new Lyon. As in the co-owner of the award-winning Sanctuary Resort, just across the street from Mountain Shadows, as well as the Valley Ho in the southern part of Scottsdale.
We could dwell on the interesting design and reputed operations of both properties. But in this case the most important ethic they offer is creating superb resorts within or adjacent to active neighborhoods. This is particularly encouraging for neighbors who have waited a very long time for good news.
The new developers are backed by the owner of the Cincinnati Reds. Judging from recent contracts handed out to the likes of All-Star first baseman Joey Votto, financial resource does not seem to be at issue.
So if the unanimous Paradise Valley Town Council vote earlier this year that’s allowed Mountain Shadows to clear all remaining hurdles wasn’t enough, maybe the roar of a Lyon to lead the project forward will get your attention.
With two superb hotel projects under its belt, let’s hope a hat trick is now in order.