Grand plan pitched to Arizona county

KINGMAN, Ariz. -- A team of Phoenix-based architects and builders on Monday shared their vision of a unique use of the west end of the Grand Canyon with Mohave County supervisors.

They pitched a project that would involve construction and development of a hotel project into the side of the canyon, in much the way the Anasazi dwelled in towering cliffs centuries ago.

Architect Michel F. Sarda, president of the Art Renaissance Initiative, said such a project would extend and enhance the experience of tourists, who average less than an hour per visit at the Grand Canyon.

"More important maybe than the creation of a resort or a hotel or whatever name we put on this would be the fact that it could become a worldwide beacon or center of interest for new technologies," Sarda said.

He said the development would have a space stationlike quality in that water and energy would have to be created on site or difficultly delivered.

"The idea, considering the problems we are facing in terms of energy, in terms of sustainability, in terms of water management, are so acute that this project could become really an experiment that could bring experts and new technologies from not only around the country, but possibly from around the world," Sarda said.

Jeffrey Denzak, a design partner with Swaback Partners, said those involved in the development plan to draw heavily from the terrain-blending design philosophies of world-renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright. "We're interested in working on a special case project that's based on a vision," Denzak said.

Denzak noted Swaback has the Arizona Biltmore resort and a number of other major projects to its credit. Chanen Construction Co., Inc. is also part of the team. Senior Project Manager John Stelfox told county officials that the firm was involved in building most of the significant high-rise structures in the greater Phoenix area.

Sarda said the project would provide jobs, stimulate the economy and serve as a tourist draw in a county that is already a gateway to the Grand Canyon.

"This would be an outstanding addition to our county," said supervisor Buster Johnson. He said the science and sustainability aspects of the project would bolster the solar and wind power endeavors being pursued in the county.

Supervisors directed county manager Ron Walker and staff to meet with the project team and honor Sarda's request to support their effort to initiate a feasibility study. Sarda also asked for county assistance in finding a site that would accommodate the proposed development.