The Mosaic Quarter complex in Tucson, Arizona, is set to become a game-changer for the region with its $425 million privately funded sporting and entertainment project. This ambitious development is designed to significantly enhance the local infrastructure, expand entertainment options, and boost economic prospects. Slated for completion by August 2026, the project is spearheaded by major contractors, including Granite Construction, and overseen by the general contractor Hensel Phelps. The ongoing construction is poised to create a sustainable and dynamic destination that will attract both local residents and tourists.
First Phase Focus: The Iceplex and Fieldhouse
The initial phase of the Mosaic Quarter centers on the construction of a 175,000-square-foot iceplex, which includes three rinks and an arena capable of seating up to 3,000 spectators. In addition to the iceplex, the project features a 131,000-square-foot fieldhouse, a central utility plant, and solar power installations, laying the groundwork for a sustainable and energy-efficient complex. Granite Construction, operating under a $27 million contract, is maintaining a steady pace toward the 2026 completion deadline, ensuring that all elements are appropriately integrated.
Since breaking ground in November 2024, Granite Construction teams have been diligently working on-site with a daily workforce of 25 craft and underground workers. Additionally, during paving operations, an extra 12 crew members join the effort. A primary focus of the initial phase of construction is the development of an extensive underground sewer system, which includes a 30-foot-deep sewer and the installation of 96-inch polymer concrete manholes. According to Zach Thompson, Granite’s area manager, ensuring the safety of the underground crews is a significant concern given the complexity of the tasks involved.
Essential Materials and Advanced Equipment
To facilitate the construction process, Granite Construction is heavily reliant on raw materials primarily sourced from its local Swan Plant. These materials include 32,000 tons of aggregate base, 20,000 tons of asphalt for establishing roads and parking facilities, and 14,000 tons of sand for utility bedding, shading, and backfilling. The advanced infrastructure also incorporates stormwater pretreatment units, various piping systems, and large steel-reinforced HDPE cisterns, ensuring that the project meets high standards of durability and sustainability.
A range of specialized heavy machinery is deployed on-site to support the construction efforts. This equipment includes water trucks, excavators, loaders, scrapers, and multiple Caterpillar models like the Cat 374 excavator. Additionally, specialized dozers and graders are employed to handle various tasks, from earthmoving to paving. The use of sophisticated machinery underscores the scale and complexity of the project, as well as the commitment to ensuring efficient and timely completion of Phase I.
Collaborative Efforts and Strategic Location
The successful realization of the Mosaic Quarter project is significantly bolstered by the collaborative efforts involving Pima County, which has granted a 40-year lease for the 90-acre development site to Knott Development, a key partner in the initiative. The project’s strategic location adjacent to the existing Kino Sports Complex, which already boasts multiple athletic fields and pickleball courts, sets the stage for the area to evolve into a premier destination for sports and recreation.
Knott Development’s vision for the future of the Mosaic Quarter is both expansive and ambitious. Planned future phases entail the development of a sportsplex multisport facility, an entertainment pavilion, an event plaza, and splashpads. Moreover, the area is expected to feature three hotels, up to 10 restaurants, and a large-scale parking structure, all designed to accommodate the growing influx of visitors and contribute to a vibrant, community-centric environment.
Community and Economic Impact
The Mosaic Quarter complex in Tucson, Arizona, is poised to be a transformative project for the region. With a staggering investment of $425 million in private funds, this sporting and entertainment development aims to significantly improve local infrastructure, expand leisure options, and invigorate the economy. Scheduled for completion by August 2026, the grand endeavor is driven by prominent contractors, notably Granite Construction. Overseeing the entire project is the general contractor Hensel Phelps. As construction progresses, the Mosaic Quarter is expected to become a sustainable, lively destination that will draw both local residents and tourists alike. Beyond providing an enhanced venue for sports and entertainment, the complex will serve as a catalyst for economic growth, creating jobs and fostering business opportunities. The development embodies a vision of a vibrant community hub that will enrich the cultural and social fabric of Tucson, drawing visitors and injecting vitality into the heart of the city.
