Posts Tagged ‘Tony Arranaga’

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Mass Transit Service Cuts in Downtown Phoenix

Monday, July 26th, 2010

Starting this week, there will be numerous changes to public transportation schedules in Phoenix. Besides changes to the bus schedule, light rail will run at 12 minute intervals from 7:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. on weekdays and 20 minute intervals at all other times (source). The service cuts are the result of  an ongoing decline of sales tax revenue, as well as the state legislature using lottery funds earmarked for public transportation in order to balance the budget.

dashIn addition to the bus and light rail changes, the Downtown Area Shuttle Bus (DASH) will also see a significant decrease in service. Terry Madeksza, Director of Operations for the Downtown Phoenix Partnership, explains what’s happening with the service and what are some other transportation options in our urban core.

DASH service is actually provided by the City of Phoenix and operated by the Public Transit Department as a business circulator connecting workers to businesses during the day. Madeksza says for the last few years, the Partnership contributed only a small amount towards the operation of DASH – about $22,500 per year out of an annual operating budget of over $850,000.

DASH had two loops: The Downtown Loop and the Government Loop. The Downtown Loop, which had a north/south orientation, has been eliminated. The Government Loop  that connects Central Station and the State Capitol, continues to run as it always has, as a business circulator with the same route and schedule.

“Since the route no longer serves the broader Downtown core, the Partnership decided to discontinue our contribution, and instead apply it towards the free evening trolley service currently in operation and provided by the Downtown Phoenix Partnership,” said Madeksza.

Even with DASH cuts there are still plenty of other transportation options to help you get around Downtown Phoenix.

“Light Rail is, of course, an affordable, convenient and environmentally friendly way to get around Central Phoenix,” says Madeksza. “There are plenty of Park and Ride lots located along the route, and wonderful, unique businesses and restaurants for riders to experience.”

trolleyDowntown Phoenix is also very walkable. Visitors to the Downtown core will find more than 100 restaurants and bars to try, plenty of public art displays to see and architectural landmarks to visit.

Medeksza points out that If you would rather ride in style, there are other options like pedicabs and a FREE evening trolley funded by the Partnership.  You can catch the trolley on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays. The trolley stops at most sports venues, theaters, restaurants and bars.  For more information on light rail, pedicabs or the free trolley, contact the Downtown Phoenix Ambassadors at 602-495-1500 or www.downtownphoenix.com.

For a supplement to the Valley Metro Transit Book, click here.

Editor’s Note: Marie Chapple, Public Information Officer for the Phoenix Public Transit Department, was a source for this blog post.

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Surviving Summer in Downtown Phoenix

Sunday, June 20th, 2010

Summer is here in Downtown Phoenix!

After an extended spring, we’re finally seeing triple digit temps on a regular basis. While staying indoors during extreme heat is always a good idea, there are ways to protect yourself when venturing out on your bike, bus or light rail during the day.

Wear appropriate warm weather clothing like light colored, loose-fitting cotton shirts and pants. Consider using sunblock for the parts of your body that aren’t covered with clothing. The style of shoe you wear is also important. Tennis shoes are always a good choice for hoofin’ it in the urban core, however you should avoid wearing shoes that will expose your feet to the harsh urban elements (i.e. sandals and flip flops). You might also want to think about wearing a ball cap or other type of hat to shade your face as much as possible.

9_3_Heat_SafetyBring some water along for the ride. Staying hydrated is always important, but it’s especially crucial when you’re commuting by bike, bus or light rail since your body is always active and on the go! If you forget to bring a water bottle, be sure to take advantage of the water fountains on light rail platforms. TIP: let the water run for a couple seconds before taking a sip!

Plan ahead to minimize your exposure to the sun by using Google Transit. No one wants to wait for a bus or train in 115F weather! If you map out your trip indoors, then you won’t have to so long for the bus or train when heading out for your commute. This is especially important on the weekends when the train intervals are 15 minutes. If you do get caught waiting, be sure to take advantage of the design features of the platform shelters to shield you from the sun.
Riding a bike will keep you cool as opposed to walking to your destination. Although it might seem like you’re exerting more energy on a bike, you can actually save energy by coasting or cruising. Plus, you get the added bonus of having a breeze on your face!

Carry an umbrella if you want shade on the spot. Take a tip from our Downtown Phoenix Ambassadors - have you seen how cool they look? You’ll often find them using an umbrella as they walk around assisting visitors (and residents!) navigate our urban core. Our Ambassadors know best!

Don’t let the sun keep you shacked up inside all day! Go out and explore the city, just be sure to follow these simple steps to stay cool during your trip to downtown Phoenix!

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Where to Workout in Downtown Phoenix

Thursday, May 27th, 2010

ymcaOur urban core is bustling with activity these days. Not only does Downtown Phoenix have some great restaurants and entertainment options, but the city also has a growing number of amenities for people who live and work in the heart of the city. Especially when it comes to having options for working out near the light rail. Whether you live Downtown, midtown or uptown…working out is just a quick train ride away!

AmenZone Primal Fitness and Training is located in the warehouse district at 106 E Buchanan (just south of US Airways Center near 2nd Street). According to friend and fellow blogger Seth, think of AmenZone as less gym and more boot camp. “I’ve never worked out so damn hard in my life but you will not find any weights, benches, treadmills, mirrors or walls of TVs.” During the workout, Seth says the class is moving constantly for about an hour with the exception of a few much needed water breaks. Taking the light rail? Deboard at one of the 3rd Street stations.

Core CrossFit is located just south of Roosevelt on 7th Street (825 N 7th Street) and trains members in a group setting. According to the website, Core CrossFit is committed to providing a complete strength and conditioning program. The training consists of constantly varied, high intensity, functional movements using equipment found in gyms but with a boot camp twist. Use the Roosevelt station when taking the light rail.

Gold’s Gym Elite is located on the second floor of the brand spanking new CityScape project, which is right smack in the heart of the city (southeast corner of Central and Washington). I just joined this Gold’s and it’s probably one of the nicest gyms I’ve seen. The facility has all the latest equipment (even treadmills that blow cool air on you while you exercise!), a towel and laundry service for those who need to go to work after working out, and of course, a fantastic view of Downtown Phoenix! Spinning and yoga classes are also included in your dues. Light rail riders can use either Central and Washington (westbound) or the 1st Avenue and Jefferson (eastbound) stations.

Just Breathe is your one-stop training facility if you like a combination of pilates, spinning and yoga classes as part of your workout regimen. After your workout, let your body recover with a deep tissue, sports or Swedish massage. Just Breathe also offers a special Arizona resident rate for first-time guests. The facility is located at 832 N 2nd Street, just south of the Roosevelt station.

Lincoln Family YMCA is directly across the street from Civic Space Park in Downtown Phoenix. One of the original gyms in our urban core, the facility is popular with Downtown and midtown residents. People who workout here love the indoor heated pool, rooftop track and racquetball courts. The Y is located directly across the street from Central station. Find out more information about the Lincoln Family YMCA here.

These days, making sure I stay fit is high on my priority list, especially after I gained 13 pounds riding a bike around Phoenix! Who knew you could get fat riding a bike?! How that happened, I’m not sure. (Well, ok, I know. I’m blaming every single coffee bar for selling delicious baked goods! Arggh!) Read the advice I got from a doctor in my blog post Does This Bike Make Me Look Fat.

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Coolest Summer Camps Along Light Rail

Tuesday, May 18th, 2010

Since the official start of summer is right around the corner, many parents who live and work in Downtown Phoenix might want to consider day camps for their kids. There are several activities–from very wet to very wild–taking place in our urban core along the light rail.

Science_CampIs your teen interested in being a doctor or doing scientific research in a lab? The Arizona Science Center is offering a week-long summer course where kids can learn what it’s like to work with doctors and researchers at the Biotechnology Medical Institute of Barrows Neurological Institute. The first session starts July 12 and tuition is $200 for Science Center members. More information can be found here. Barrows is located on the St. Joseph’s campus, just a short walk from the Thomas and Central light rail station.

The Children’s Museum is teaming up with the Phoenix Theatre (McDowell light rail station) to offer workshops for kids ages 4-18. A storybook or fairy tale workshop is available for the younger kids, while the older kids have options like musical theater and dance workshops. The first session starts June 1st through June 25 and the second session runs July 6-30. The workshops range in price from $300 to $600 per four week session, or a weekly tuition is also available. For more information on the classes and location click here.

The Chase Field Camp Experience (July 7-9) is probably the ultimate urban summer camp. As the name suggests, the three-day workshop is held at Chase Field and involves an on-field clinic in addition to batting practice in big league batting cages. Arizona Diamondbacks personalities will also be on hand during parts of the camp and tuition includes two tickets to a game. More information on the $350 camp for kids ages 6-12 can be found here. Chase Field is located at the 3rd Street and Jefferson light rail station.

Probably one of the most important life lessons you can teach your kid is how to swim! The Lincoln Family Downtown YMCA offers summer camp swim lessons for kids ages 5-12 starting June 7 and ending July 29. Tuition starts at $10 per three-day session. Hint: to help fill the day, parents may also want to pair the swim lessons with one of a variety of YMCA activities also held at the facility. The Y is located directly across the street from Central Station. Information on this and all the summer camps at the YMCA can be found here.

If your kid is an animal lover, then they will love Camp Zoo at Phoenix Zoo (Priest light rail station). The summer camp is geared for kids entering kindergarten through 8th grade. Sessions for older kids include activities like Discovering What It’s Like To Be an Animal Presenter where kids will put on a show for parents! Younger kids get to do activities like getting to know the zoo animals and other behind the scenes experiences. Camp fees start at $153 for half day sessions. After camp care is also available. Information on Camp Zoo can be found here. Keep in mind, there is a bus transfer at the light rail station in order to get to the zoo.

Valley Youth Theatre (Central Station) offers acting workshops for kids during the summer months. VYT provides two types of fun-filled educational camps: one in theatre basics ($300) and the other involving musical theatre ($630). The theatre’s summer camp is a four-week long program that includes a final day performance. The theatre also offers before and after care for an additional fee. Information on the classes, which start on June 7, can be found here.

Information on how to ride to summer camp can be found on my blog which is here.

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Health Care Comes to Downtown Phoenix

Thursday, May 6th, 2010

Downtown Phoenix residents and workers will be happy to know that health care is right around the corner. Cigna Medical Group will soon open their first CMG CareToday clinic in our urban core at the northwest corner of Central and Adams. The facility is just a short walk from the Central and Washington light rail station. The office should be open to the public next week pending an inspections check.

ribbon-cuttingRRMayor Phil Gordon, City of Phoenix District 8 Representative Michael Johnson, Cigna executives, and other Downtown notables attended an on-site ribbon cutting ceremony Thursday morning [See photo, left].

Until now, people who live Downtown know the area is underserved by physician offices and no-appointment health clinics. The closest clinic to the center of the city is located inside the Walgreen’s at Central and Osborn (approximately three miles). CMG CareToday, according to a release, provides no-appointment “fast” medical care to those with or without insurance.

“We received feedback that, if you work Downtown, there aren’t a lot of options for no appointment care other than the Downtown emergency rooms,” said Henri Cournand, vice president of business development for Cigna Medical Group. The Downtown location is the ninth Cigna CareToday to open in the Valley and the company plans to open more.

“With the significant concentration of employers, coupled with large Downtown hotels, we believe that the CMG CareToday location at Central & Adams is a good alternative for quick and convenient care,” says Cournand.

CareToday is a quick and convenient option, ideal for allergies, asthma, bladder infections, minor burns, colds, ear infections, flu, immunizations, back pain, pregnancy testing, strep throat and other easily diagnosed and treated ailments.

Most visits are $59 plus lab work (approximately $10) but first visits are $29.

Common prescriptions are kept on site so patients can leave with everything they need to start feeling better.

Additional information on CareToday services can be found here.

Get more new business information by texting “DEV” to 25866

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Spotlight Shines on Downtown Warehouse District

Thursday, April 29th, 2010

Friend and fellow blogger Yuri Artibise is organizing his second Jane’s Walk this weekend in Downtown Phoenix. The nationwide (free) event, named after urbanist Jane Jacobs, is meant to draw attention to walkable neighborhoods within your city. This year, Artibise is focusing on the warehouse district in our urban core. According to the Jane’s Walk Phoenix website, Artibise points out that our warehouse district has been neglected. Buildings have either been razed or boarded up. In most cities, warehouse districts are epicenters of the arts and culture scene, in addition to being a great place for young entrepreneurs to see their business grow. That’s not the case here in Phoenix, and Artibise quotes Jane Jacobs as to why our city people should change their mindset when it comes to adaptive reuse of buildings in this part of town.

Cities need old buildings so badly it is probably impossible for vigorous streets and districts to grow without them…. for really new ideas of any kind—no matter how ultimately profitable or otherwise successful some of them might prove to be—there is no leeway for such chancy trial, error and experimentation in the high-overhead economy of new construction. Old ideas can sometimes use new buildings. New ideas must use old buildings. – Jane Jacobs, “The Death and Life of American Cities”

You can learn more about the Downtown Phoenix warehouse district by joining Yuri and dozens of others this Saturday from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. The walk will start at AmenZone, located at 106 E. Buchanan, which is just a couple of blocks south of the 3rd Street and Jefferson light rail station. Information on the event can be found here and instructions on how to ride the light rail can be found on my website here.

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Get your Groove on at Civic Space Jam

Thursday, April 15th, 2010

An eclectic mix of people and music can be found every third Sunday at Civic Space Park (deboard light rail at Central Station). The event is called Civic Space Jam – a free dance party in the heart of our urban core. The late afternooon/early evening event is a great way to bring the weekend in for a nice soft landing with some cool tunes and fun people. One of the event organizers, Anthony Hart (aka DJ Hartbreaks) is a friend. I’ve been wanting to do a profile on his event ever since it started late last year, but we could never coordinate schedules. Before too much time passed, I figured I would corner Hart for an interview by text message, which just so happens to be my first ever text message interview (I’m not sure if this is a sign of advanced technology or an indication of where my career is headed). Here is our text conversation in its entirety. The text conversation took place April 13th around 10:15 p.m. I was at home on my sofa and in my footie pajamas while DJ Hartbreaks was at Downtown hot spot Lost Leaf.

civic space park_resizedTony Arranaga: Are you working?

Anthony Hart: Nope. Lost Leaf. Why?

TA: Wanted to ask you about Civic Space Jam for a blog post. Anything different happening this weekend compared to previous jams?

AH: It’s gonna be warmer!

TA: Any suggestions on what people should bring?

AH: Squirtguns! Water balloons! Popsicles! Ice cream! Cold Water! We’ll have free ice tea.

TA: Awesome. You know I’m using all this for a post so only answer what you want in print/text. :) Are you happy with the turnout at previous Civic Space Jams?

AH: Absolutely! If you’ve been coming each month since November, it keeps growing and getting bigger/more packed and popular every time.

AH: Everyone needs to spread the word and tell their friends, whether they live/hangout Downtown or not — but ESPECIALLY if you do. We started this from the ground up, little to no flyering (flyers/advertising), totally do it yourself/grassroots and the turnout/support has been amazing.

TA: and it’s FREE!  Is Civic Space Jam family friendly or should people leave their kids at home?

AH: Dude. It’s an all ages event, outdoors in a beautiful park (Civic Space Park) that has a ton of potential. Seeing kids drance, draw (with chalk on the sidewalk) what they want/contribute to a mural, has been awesome. Phoenix needs more fresh, community oriented events like this to bring people together. Hopefully things like CSJ are still going and continue to grow as these kids do. We’re one of the largest cities in the US and need to show it culturally.

TA: I agree. I think there’s alot to do here in Downtown. Phoenix is such a cool city – people should get out and explore!

AH: Alot of the people that come to CSJ I see at bars and downtown, parties, or are DJs/musicians themselves in addition to being parents. For once they can make a family day/night of it and not have to worry about a sitter.

TA: Sounds good. Thanks Anthony!

Civic Space Jam takes place the third Sunday of every month at Civic Space Park, which is just north of Central station (Central and Van Buren). The event takes place from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. and is free to the public. Dress code: casual/day at the park. If you’re interested in finding out more information about Civic Space Jam, check out the Facebook fan page. Click here to read details about the park and the public art display called Her Secret is Patience. Information on how to ride the light rail can be found on my Web site here.

 

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Brunch Spots Near the METRO Light Rail

Thursday, April 1st, 2010

The great weather we’re experiencing in Downtown Phoenix is perfect for sitting at a local cafe and enjoying a mimosa or bloody mary (or both!) with family or friends. Easter Sunday is almost here and many restaurants near the light rail are offering up some delicious off-menu items as well as the usual crowd pleasers for you to enjoy. See anything you just can’t resist?

The District at the Sheraton (Central station) is going all out for Easter Brunch. The restaurant will have a bloody mary bar, unlimited mimosas, breakfast bar, raw bar (sushi, tuna, oysters, shrimp cocktail), a Dr. Pepper glazed ham and bbq chicken for $29 ($12.50 for kids). Talk about grazing! The brunch runs from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. (restaurant website)

food_brunch_mainFez (Osborn station) is a foodie fave in CenPho! Thomas the manager says on Easter Sunday, the restaurant will feature lump crab and ricotta egg white omelets topped with cherry tomatoes ($12). Another off-menu item: pork chops Milanese with creamy smashed potatoes and grilled asparagus ($18). The restaurant also has $3 mimosas and bloody marys. Riding your bike?  The racks are located in the back parking lot. (restaurant website)

Hula’s Modern Tiki (Camelback station) is on my list of new favorite places to dine. The restaurant recently started serving a weekend brunch, just in time for Easter Sunday. The staff tells me their eggs benedict dishes are to die for. Don’t like ham? Try the dish with Spam, Portuguese sausage or seared Ahi tuna. Oh, and the mimosas are bottomless until 2:30pm.  Bike racks are in the back. (restaurant website)

Local Breeze (Central station) is the perfect place for patio dining! The owner tells me the Fire Island eggs  are a hit, however my favorite is the Banana Foster french toast. The restaurant scores bonus points for giving customers a 10 percent discount off their order when they ride their bikes to the restaurant. WIN!

Steve’s Greenhouse Grill is located in the heart of Downtown near the Washington and 3rd Street station or the 1st Avenue and Jefferson station. The restaurant features a buffet for $12.95 ($8.95 for kids) which includes a beverage. You can also order off the regular menu as well. (restaurant website)

Taking your bike to brunch this weekend? Valley METRO just kicked off a bike awareness campaign and is encouraging people to extend your clean air commute by using a bike in connection with the bus or light rail. Learn about the bike safety education efforts here and see what events are scheduled during the month of April here.

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Turning Phoenix Green

Tuesday, March 16th, 2010

Many cities have different ways of celebrating St. Patrick’s Day.  Boston has one of the largest parades, Chicago puts vegetable dye in the Chicago River and Savannah puts green dye in city fountains.  While Phoenix may not have an official celebration, we can certainly do our part to turn our city green, if not in color then in practice by using mass transit and alternative transportation.

People always ask me how I get around town while living carfree.  Here’s a list of the different modes of transportation I use in Downtown Phoenix.

METRO light rail - The 20 mile starter line plays a huge role in getting me around Central Phoenix, Tempe and Mesa. You can either buy a month pass for $55 dollars, or buy a day pass for $3.50 depending on how often you plan on using the service. Information on how to ride can be found here.

Bike - My vintage Schwinn cruiser helps me get around Downtown and beyond. Besides using a bike for short trips in the urban core, it also comes in handy when you need to go north or south of the light rail line to either grab a bite to eat or go shopping. Unfortunately, Downtown does not have bike rentals…yet….

Zipcar – The car sharing service is available at ASU’s downtown campus. There are also Zipcar locations in Tempe and the West Valley.  Enterprise, which is located inside the Hyatt Hotel, also has hourly rates. However I’ve found that Zipcar is more competitively priced.  Information on the service and membership can be found here.

pedicabsPedicab - This mode of transportation is great when you have multiple places to visit in a night.  There are no set rates for the drivers, so tip generously!  How do you hail a pedicab?  A phone number and more information can be found here.

Taxi Discount Cab is my taxi of choice with their green fleet, however you have several options in the Downtown district.

Valley METRO looking to travel beyond Downtown?  Valley Metro bus service allows you to get to many places in the Valley.  Click here for more information.

Trolley and DASH both travel in the downtown area and operate mainly on weekeend nights.  These services are especially popular on First Friday’s, the monthly art walk in Downtown.  More information can be found here.

Of course, walking is always a great option. You may even see me every now and then on my longboard.

Using these modes of transportation are not only good for clearing the air and reducing congestion, but they also help a person get better acquainted with the city. Enjoy the ride!


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Make Rail Stations Part of Your Art Detour

Thursday, March 4th, 2010

One of the longest-running, self-guided art tours in the nation is about to get underway right here in Downtown Phoenix. The 22nd Annual Art Detour begins this Saturday and no doubt the trains will be packed for this and other events taking place along light rail. Organizers estimate that close to 15,000 people will walk through artist studios, enjoy local restaurants and stores, and see everything the urban heart of the Valley has to offer.  Information on the event can be found here.

artdetourWhile the focus of Art Detour involves exploring the artist studios and galleries, you may also want to pay attention to the public art displays at each of the light rail stations. METRO budgeted $6.3 million for the features you see incorporated in the station platforms, each one unique to the neighborhood where the station is situated.  According to the METRO Web site:

“Each station boasts its own unique character with artwork that strives to add substance, style and even a touch of whimsy to the transit experience.  As a whole, the METRO art program is a major example of how art can transform the landscape and enhance the public dialogue.”

I love how the station art gives the transit rider some historical perspective on the area and provides a story about the community as a whole.  In one case there’s a sad twist that took place during the design and construction phase of the project.  Below are some interesting facts about the station art in Central Phoenix:

200px-METRO_Light_Rail_Uptown_Phoenix_Station_Sculpture- The missing pieces of art at the McDowell station are due to a sudden death during construction.

- The terrazzos on the 1st Avenue/Jefferson platform celebrate iconic figures in Arizona justice, like Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O’Connor.

- The bronze boxes at the Encanto/Central station rotate and display narrative glyphs next to a modern version of a Mayan sculpture.

- The 24-foot circular design of desert stones [left] at the Camelback station is one of the largest public art displays along the 20-mile starter line.

- The Brancusi-inspired beacons at the 3rd Street/Washington station change color, and use sunlight to display color during the day.

You can read about the sudden death of the McDowell station artist here,and learn about the other station artwork here, and how to ride the METRO light rail here. What are some of your favorite works of art along the light rail?

 

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