[Source: Katie Nelson, Arizona Republic] -- Stucco siding fell like cardboard with each swipe of an excavation truck's clawed arm. Chunks of building, shelving and retaining wall clattered to the ground, relegating the old Gentle Strength Co-op buildings to memories for organic food fans. The aging structures at the intersection of University Drive and Ash Avenue were demolished to make way for a 21-story condo complex and a corporate health-food store. The demolition last month was the first visible sign to the community that the Mosaic project is under way."It's kind of sad to see it go," said Chris Corwin, who was working at the new Gentle Strength Co-op location at Mill and Southern avenues during the demolition. "But it's a dual thing. Everyone is trying to focus on our new future here." Developers also are scheduled to rip out at least three smaller buildings near University Drive and Forest Avenue in the coming weeks. The work will clear land for a massive mixed-use building with three towers, called University Square. One of the Arches buildings will be torn down, as will the building that housed the Trophy Den, said Tony Wall, one of the project's developers. The entire block could be cleared as early as February, Wall said.
[Note: To read the full article, click here. Photo source: Leanne Matzenger.]
