TUCSON-Although the estimated cost of the sprawling Rio Nuevo project has doubled to more than $750 million, it won't cost taxpayers much more than the original cost, says a city official.

PHOENIX-Voters on Tuesday will decide more than a dozen city council and mayoral races. In addition, Phoenix voters will vote on a $754-million bond issue earmarked for infrastructure improvements and clean up of the Salt River.

PHOENIX-With rents on the rise and genuine interest in residential living in Downtown Phoenix for the first time in recent history, a local real estate investment firm has purchased an apartment complex.

PHOENIX-Declining demand for semi-conductor chips has forced Intel to reduce its worldwide staff by 10%, but a multi-billion dollar fabrication plant now under construction in Chandler will be completed by year-end.

PHOENIX-The first regional mall in northern Arizona is ahead of schedule for its leasing and will open in less than a year just outside Prescott.

PHOENIX-A credit counseling company is joining dozens of other companies that have relocated to the popular area along the I-17 Corridor near the Loop 101 interchange. The company has purchased land to build an office campus.

PHOENIX-A 20-story office tower under construction in downtown Phoenix has attracted another prime tenant.

PHOENIX-Venerable computer maker Apple Computer is looking at leasing space in at least two Valley malls, where it will open some of its first company-owned retail stores.