Daily News 8-21-2026

Mesa is preparing about 150 acres controlled by the Arizona State Land Department for residential and commercial uses, part of a large, master-planned community. The Mesa Planning and Zoning Board unanimously recommended approval for a general plan amendment and rezoning of land at Hawes and Elliot roads to allow about 100 acres of single-family residential development and about 50 acres of mixed-use and commercial development. According to city documents, the land had previously…»

Economic activity showed signs of strengthening in July, pointing to continued growth in the months ahead, according to data from the Conference Board. The research group said its Leading Economic Index, a closely watched measure of future economic activity, rose 0.2% in July. The index’s six-month growth rate turned positive for the first time in four years. The index combines 10 forward-looking indicators, including unemployment claims, manufacturing orders, building…»

Another solar plant project with battery energy storage systems to help power future data centers is in the works outside of Phoenix. Salt Lake City, Utah-based Copia Power, which develops, builds and operates grid-connected power and data center infrastructure, is working to rezone about 3,100 acres near Tonopah in the far West Valley for its latest project, the Belmont Energy Center, according to planning documents filed with Maricopa County. Most of the project site – about 2,860…»

Arizona doesn’t need anyone to tell us we have incredible Mexican food. But when Arizona Mexican restaurants get a little love from The New York Times, it certainly doesn’t hurt. The New York Times recently unveiled its list of the 41 best Mexican restaurants in America, assembled after reporters, editors and photographers spent more than a year traveling the country in search of standout restaurants. Three Arizona favorites earned coveted spots — and they showcase just how diverse…»

The Denū Hotel & Spa, the first luxury hotel in downtown Phoenix with a full-service spa, is preparing to open in September and already has a notable book of group business. Set to debut on Sept. 16, the 236-room hotel is located at 1 E. Adams Street in downtown Phoenix in a newly constructed 17-story building. Pronounced “DEH-noo”, the word has roots in Old English and translates to “valley” as a nod to the region’s nickname, Valley of the Sun. While Denū has significantly…»