Introduction

The City of Glendale (City) invites proposals from qualified land use and development consultants (Consultant) to undertake a comprehensive rewrite of the Glendale General Plan (Plan). This updated Plan will serve as a strategic framework for guiding future decisions on land use, development, transportation, infrastructure, neighborhood improvement, and other key elements of the built environment. The Plan will emphasize strategies for infill development, adaptive reuse, and redevelopment while meeting the requirements of Arizona Revised Statutes (A.R.S.) § 9-461. 

Community Profile 

The City of Glendale, founded in 1892, spans approximately 60 square miles in the Phoenix metropolitan area, situated nine miles northwest of downtown Phoenix. Located in the West Valley, Glendale is characterized by its flat desert landscape and proximity to surrounding mountain ranges. As the sixth-largest city in Arizona and the fifth-largest in the Phoenix metropolitan area, Glendale has an estimated population of 253,855 (2023).

The city’s boundaries include several unincorporated “islands” between 75th Avenue and El Mirage Road, along with large incorporated areas to the west connected by city-managed roadways. Glendale’s largely landlocked geography presents unique growth challenges, necessitating a heightened focus on infill development, adaptive reuse, and redevelopment strategies to complement traditional growth approaches. 

Objectives

The Glendale General Plan aims to establish a foundational framework for citywide plans, policies, and development initiatives. This framework ensures that all city activities align with the overarching vision of the Plan, which integrates new development while addressing infill, adaptive reuse, and redevelopment opportunities within established areas. The Plan is designed to enhance the built environment, foster sustainable growth, optimize land use, and address community needs while considering environmental sustainability.

The primary objectives of the Plan include:

• Identifying Development Opportunities: Pinpoint and prioritize opportunities for infill, adaptive reuse, and redevelopment to revitalize existing areas while accommodating growth. 
• Promoting Sustainable Development: Develop strategies that support responsible, sustainable development practices that balance economic, environmental, and social considerations. 
• Fostering Public Engagement: Actively involve residents, businesses, and other key stakeholders in an inclusive planning process to ensure the Plan reflects community values and priorities. 
• Establishing Development Guidelines: Create clear and actionable guidelines for zoning, infrastructure, and public services to support cohesive and well-planned growth. 
• Incorporating Targeted Policies: Integrate specific policies and recommendations that emphasize infill development, adaptive reuse of existing structures, and strategic redevelopment efforts. 

This Plan will serve as a long-term roadmap for Glendale’s growth and development, ensuring a vibrant, sustainable, and inclusive future for the community.