Sprouts coming to midtown Phoenix

Construction has started on an upscale apartment complex going on up on the former site of the iconic Bashas’ in midtown Phoenix, and a new Sprouts Farmers Market is slated to be part of the project.

Osborn Residences will include 190 apartments on the southwest corner of Osborn Road and Seventh Avenue. Next to the rentals, construction of Osborn Marketplace is nearly done. A Starbucks drive-thru has already opened on the corner.

The development replaces what was Bashas’ longest-operating grocery store in the state. The store with its big neon sign opened in 1956 and closed last year.

High Street Residential and Metlife Investment are building the five-story apartments that are expected to open to renters this August.

“Midtown and Downtown submarkets are home to Phoenix’s most diverse population,” said Paul Tuchin, senior vice president with High Street Phoenix. “As a result, the project is designed and amenitized with the goal of appealing to a wide range of potential renters.”

A coffee bar, lounge, buffet kitchen, gaming area, pool, fire pits, yoga lawn and dog spa are part of the apartment complex’s amenities.

He said the amenities include a “notable grocer” and other shops besides the Starbucks.

Zachary Pace, senior vice president of Phoenix Commercial Advisors, confirmed Sprouts has signed a lease to anchor the shopping center.

He said the grocery is scheduled to open this summer.