Before shoppers can fill their bags at an upcoming retail center in Buckeye, Arizona, drones will first need to map the future marketplace’s sprawling construction site.
Phoenix-based general contractor Haydon officially broke ground in late November on the $275 million Verrado marketplace in the Grand Canyon State, according to a news release shared with Construction Dive.
To build the 500,000-square-foot development, Haydon plans to integrate advanced construction technology to streamline operations and enhance project oversight. These innovations include tools for precise design coordination and real-time progress tracking, said Heather Marin, director of operations at Haydon.
“We will be using BIM services for topography in addition to clash detection,” said Marin. “We will also be using drone technology for aerial photography and progression of the site over the course of the project.”
In addition to the construction tech, Marin added early planning efforts allowed Haydon to identify key challenges, including supply chain issues for materials with significant procurement timelines and the need to coordinate deliverables for multiple tenants.
“Being involved early in the project has allowed us to partner with the client and have a clear understanding of what materials will be long lead so that we could place material orders early while working through the balance of the design,” said Marin. “Understanding the complexity of the project early allowed us to ensure we were able to find the right trade partners that could complete the project on time with the appropriate amount of manpower while providing a competitive bid within the market.”
The preplanning process also helped Haydon anticipate key deliverables for the tenants, such as Target and movie theater chain Harkins. The center features a 75,000-square-foot venue with a luxury theater, restaurant, sports-viewing area, arcade, bowling alley and private event spaces. Once completed, the property will have over 50 retailers and restaurants, according to Vestar.
The retail construction sector has experienced mixed momentum recently, with spending on commercial projects like retail centers down nearly 10% over the past year, according to U.S. Census Bureau data. However, optimism is growing as federal rate cuts and increased developer confidence signal a potential rebound in activity.
The Verrado marketplace, designed to serve as a hub for Buckeye’s growing community, will include spaces for socializing, such as a central lawn and a performance stage for concerts, community events and gatherings. Haydon plans to integrate sustainable construction practices on the project, such as energy-efficient materials, solar power, water harvesting systems, LED lighting and electric vehicle charging stations.
“Communication is key,” said Marin. “Working hand in hand with our client and trade partners on deliverables and any challenges that may arise, and constantly communicating our milestone completion dates, will be critical.”
Haydon expects to complete the project by late 2026.