By
Blake Smith
Arizona Daily Wildcat
New restaurant, expanded women's clothing store part of renovation
Nearly six months after Urban Outfitters opened its doors in the latest phase of University Boulevard revitalization, construction will get underway again next week.
By February, students can expect to see a new restaurant and clothing store.
The Chipolte Mexican Grill, an upscale and healthy Mexican eatery started in Denver, plans to offer students and Tucson community members an alternative to egg rolls and fajita wraps.
"And best of all, the menu will be affordable," said Tom Warne, consultant for the Marshall Foundation, which runs Main Gate Square.
Some students said they are anxious to have the new restaurant open.
"I love Mexican food," said Kristi Snyder, an undeclared sophomore.
The clothing store Divaz is expected to join the restaurant in the new addition. Once the move is complete, Divaz will offer expanded clothing selection and more shoes.
"Next week, construction begins, and the shell should be completed by December," Warne said.
He said he expects the tenants to move in by February.
Demolition is nearly complete on the existing building, which was once home to a U.S. Postal Service office, a cafe and a dry cleaner.
Warne said he is not sure when the rest of the complex will be demolished or which businesses will occupy the building.
Rachel Bus, Latin American studies senior, said she would like to see another bar, while Snyder said she hopes another bagel sandwich shop will return to University Boulevard.
"I loved that place," Snyder added.
Students will not see demolition to the rest of the complex anytime soon, Warne said.
A five-story building that will be built in the parking lot behind the center could be complete before any more shops are added.
By this time next year, Warne said Tyndall Avenue near University Boulevard could have major improvements.
New sidewalks, benches, bike paths and narrower roads could improve the campus road, he said.
"I think it is good that they are trying to put new stuff in," Bus said. "It would be great if we could get something like Mill Avenue."
