At their meeting on March 21, 2018, the Oro Valley Town Council decided to expand the Economic Expansion Zone (EEZ) to include more business and tech park areas like Innovation Park and Foothills Business Park. This change, which aligns with the voter-approved Your Voice, Our Future General Plan, will not affect residential zones but is set to boost economic growth, aiding in the town’s long-term financial health.
Oro Valley is nearing full development, with about 85% of land already built up. By widening the EEZ, the town is opening up more space for technology-related jobs, making the remaining areas more appealing to potential employers. Previously, only parts of these zones enjoyed the benefits of the EEZ, but now all tech park-zoned properties can compete equally.
This move reflects the community’s wishes. During the 2016 General Plan Update, locals emphasized the need for more job opportunities to shape a well-rounded community.
Oro Valley’s Planning and Zoning Administrator, Bayer Vella, highlighted the importance of attracting employers in today’s competitive market. “Top-tier tech companies are looking for the ability to build custom facilities quickly, so it’s crucial to maintain our design standards while meeting these demands,” he said.
Joe Snell, President and CEO of Sun Corridor, Inc., pointed out that the region’s commercial and industrial spaces are dwindling. He stressed the need for a streamlined development process, noting, “Complications can deter companies, making our region less competitive.”
Background
The EEZ, adopted in 2012, was designed to boost economic growth in Innovation Park by cutting down the time needed for public meetings and hearings. This was done while still upholding town design standards. Residents could voice their concerns through open house meetings for projects within the EEZ.
Since its inception, the EEZ has facilitated several developments, including Securaplane Technologies, Tucson Orthopedic Institute, the expansion of Ventana Medical Systems Inc. (part of the Roche Group), and All Seasons Senior Care.
Sources
Your Voice, Our Future General Plan
Innovation Park
Sun Corridor, Inc.