After a contentious start in 2023, the Mack Innovation Park project in North Scottsdale is now advancing with little visible opposition. The industrial campus, spanning roughly 124 acres between Loop 101, Pima Road and Bell Road, has seen its first two warehouse‑sized buildings completed and a new wave of zoning approvals approved by the Planning Commission.
Background and recent approvals
When the Mack Real Estate Group (MREG) purchased the land from the Arizona State Land Department in March 2022, the site was largely untouched state land zoned for industrial park use. The original plan called for about 1.2 million square feet of industrial and office space across multiple buildings, a development the city deemed a needed addition to the regional market.
Local residents, particularly those in the affluent DC Ranch area, voiced concerns in 2023 about traffic, visual impact and the character of the neighborhood. Those objections were heard at a series of meetings, but the Scottsdale City Council voted unanimously to move the project forward.
Most recently, the Planning Commission unanimously approved a zoning district map amendment that adjusts landscape setback standards for internal streets on the larger portion of the site. The amendment does not alter any previously approved building designs or uses, and the city emphasized that no new structures are being added under this filing.
New flex‑office component
While the main industrial area remains largely unchanged, Mack unveiled plans for a smaller, roughly 29‑acre section in the southeast corner of the property. This portion, zoned as a Planned Regional Center, will host seven single‑story flex‑office buildings totaling about 210,000 square feet—approximately one‑sixth the size of the warehouse complex.
The flex‑office layout, shown at an open‑house meeting held at the Scottsdale Marriott at McDowell Mountains, places the new structures on either side of 91st Avenue near the Bell Road boundary. The city’s application notes that these buildings are intended to provide high‑quality office space without increasing heavy semi‑truck traffic.
Community response and ongoing dialogue
Attendance at the recent meeting was modest, reflecting a shift in community sentiment. Mack attorney Jason Morris said attendees seemed to understand that the development is not a “monster” and that the company is honoring the compromises required for city clearance.
DC Ranch spokesperson Chris Irish confirmed that the neighborhood remains opposed to the large warehouses but expressed hope for continued collaboration. Irish highlighted a specific request to redesign the strip of land along Pima Road to better complement nearby neighborhoods and to include amenities that serve residents.
“We remain hopeful that Mack will work collaboratively with us to create a gateway development that reflects community values,” Irish said.
Economic impact and future outlook
The Mack Innovation Park advertises its proximity to Scottsdale Airport and its location within a five‑mile radius of over 70,000 residences, including high‑end developments such as Silverleaf, Grayhawk and McDowell Mountain Ranch. The presence of Rivian Automotive, which plans to sell electric vehicles on the site, exemplifies the park’s goal of attracting high‑quality users.
Although Mack declined to name additional prospective tenants, the company’s messaging emphasizes job creation and a customized employment hub that avoids the nuisances often associated with traditional industrial parks.
Looking ahead, Mack plans to construct two more large buildings on the north side of the property by 2028, while the smaller flex‑office component is slated to begin construction soon.
What’s next for North Scottsdale?
City officials will continue to monitor the project’s compliance with zoning standards and community agreements. Residents are encouraged to stay engaged through future planning meetings and to voice any concerns about traffic, design or amenities.
Overall, the Mack Innovation Park appears to be transitioning from a source of local controversy to a developing asset that aligns with Scottsdale’s growth goals while respecting the values of nearby neighborhoods.
Original reporting: Scottsdale Progress — read the source article.
