Demolition has begun at a former shopping center in Tempe as the city moves forward with a major redevelopment project that will bring hundreds of affordable housing units and a new grocery store to the area. The project, known as Dorsey Station, is expected to transform the site into a mixed-use community located along the Valley Metro light rail corridor.
City officials say the development is part of Tempe’s ongoing effort to increase affordable housing options while improving access to fresh food and public transportation.
Project
Dorsey Station will be built on several acres at 1320 E. Apache Blvd. and 1412 S. Dorsey Lane.
The development will replace the former Pollack Apache Center, which previously housed a Food City grocery store before it closed.
Demolition crews are currently clearing the site in preparation for construction.
Housing
The project will include approximately 400 apartments, with about 90% of the units designated as affordable housing.
According to the City of Tempe, apartments will be available to households earning between 30% and 80% of the area’s median income.
For households at the lower end of the eligibility range, annual income is approximately $27,000.
| Housing Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Total apartments | 400 |
| Affordable units | Approximately 90% |
| Income eligibility | 30% – 80% of area median income |
| Lowest qualifying income | About $27,000 annually |
Grocery
In addition to housing, the development will include a grocery store.
City leaders say restoring access to healthy food has been a priority since the previous grocery store closed, leaving nearby residents with fewer shopping options.
The location’s proximity to the light rail is expected to improve accessibility for residents who rely on public transportation.
Approval
The Tempe City Council unanimously approved the development overlay ordinance for the project last year.
The redevelopment represents one of the city’s largest affordable housing initiatives and is designed to create a mixed-use neighborhood that combines housing, retail, and transit access.
Investment
The City of Tempe purchased the property in late 2021 for approximately $10.7 million following the closure of Food City.
Under the current development agreement, the city will retain ownership of the land while partnering with a private developer to complete the project.
Need
Local organizations say affordable housing remains one of the community’s most pressing challenges.
Officials with the Tempe Community Action Agency note that many residents are living paycheck to paycheck and face financial instability due to rising housing costs.
Projects such as Dorsey Station are intended to provide additional housing opportunities for lower- and moderate-income households.
Timeline
Construction is expected to continue over several years.
| Project Timeline | Expected Date |
|---|---|
| Demolition begins | Underway |
| First residents expected | End of 2028 |
| Full project completion | 2029 or 2030 |
According to Tempe Mayor Corey Woods, residents are expected to begin moving into completed apartments by the end of 2028, while the full development is anticipated to be completed between 2029 and 2030.
FAQs
What is Dorsey Station?
It is a mixed-use development with affordable housing and a grocery store.
How many apartments will be built?
The project includes approximately 400 apartments.
How many units are affordable?
About 90% of the apartments will be affordable.
When will residents begin moving in?
The first move-ins are expected by the end of 2028.
Who owns the property?
The City of Tempe will retain ownership of the land.
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