The Phoenix Park Neighborhood project is 1.9 buildings into its development and things are changing up a bit. The developers are seeking a one-year extension on the deadline for the project’s first phase, and Michael Lander of the Lander Group – somewhat of a Jesus figure our downtown development, check out the beard – wants to play a smaller role. From the L-T ...

• Developers Geoff Moeding and Michael Lander want to delay the city-imposed deadlines for completing buildings in phase 1 of the project as part of a proposal under which Moeding and developers Wisconsin Street Associates would buy yet-to-be-developed building sites from Lander and presumably build the remainder of the project.
• Lander would not be directly involved with future North Barstow development but would retain ownership with Moeding of the Midelfort Pharmacy and Home Medical building and the nearly completed apartment and retail building just east of Phoenix Park, Moeding said.
• As part of the agreement, Lander also would retain architectural oversight of the entire project, scheduled to be built in two phases over a number of years. Lander also would oversee the development agreement, Moeding said.

According to the article, Moeding cites the bad economy for the construction delay. No surprise there. I can’t imagine this is the opportune time to be throwing up innovative new business and living space. (Please note, I am not an experienced urban developer.) That said, Moeding is still planning on constructing a third building this year. And Lander stepping back a little from the project probably has everything to do with ALL of his projects in the current economic climate, and not the vitality of the Phoenix Park project specifically. (Please note, I am not an experienced urban economist.)

The City Council will probably review the extension request in May.