PHOENIX SKY HARBOR AIRPORT CONSIDERS IMPACTS OF PROPOSED ENTERTAINMENT DISTRICT

The Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport is seeking additional information surrounding a proposed arena and commercial site project designed to support the Arizona Coyotes. The property up for development is less than two miles from a runway approach and the airport is concerned about safety issues that could arise as a result of the project construction. The airport is hoping to learn more from the Coyote’s project team to further analyze the potential impact of the development on airport operations.

The leading concern voiced by the airport is related to building heights and construction equipment that could impede operational safety in the surrounding airspace. The request for proposals from Tempe earlier this year for site redevelopment was issued in tandem with the requirement for projects to adhere to FAA regulations including complying with an allowable building height of around 100 feet in the designated area. Additionally, a potential residential site included in the project plan could conflict with non-compatible land-use restrictions enforced by the FAA to uphold noise requirements. The third safety concern highlights the risk of laser and drone usage commonly associated with activity within the vicinity of an entertainment district. While a decision is still pending, the Coyote’s do not expect to complete construction of initial phases until at least 2025 if they are awarded a project contract.