PHOENIX-M&I Bank inks a new pact for 45,609 sf of class A-minus space that will keep its regional headquarters in One East Camelback until 2016. The bank will occupy the entire 10th and 11th floors, along with first-floor bank branch space.

CLEAR LAKE, TX-Office market fundamentals are improving, driven by expanding and relocating companies rather than space-oriented tenants. During the first quarter 2005, 192,115 sf of space is absorbed, helping occupancy and raising rents.

SCOTTSDALE, AZ-Opus West Corp. and RED Group LLC move forward with their development of McDowell Village, a 223-unit residential complex in the new McDowell Village Senior Center campus. The project is expected to be completed early next year.

HOUSTON-Jim Pierce, former chief operating officer of locally based Academy Sports & Outdoors, takes on a new role at NewQuest Properties. He will be responsible for new development including landacquisition and site selection.

TAMPA, FL-The chain's CFO Robert S. Merritt will leave his post in May after 15 years with the company.

PARADISE VALLEY, AZ-With construction just weeks away, Crown Realty & Development Corp. lines up noted hotelier Horst Schulze to manage the Montelucia Resort, Spa & Residences. The agreement ends a two-year search for an overseer.

HOUSTON-The Stamford, CT-based pension fund adviser, up against 24 other prospective investors, wins the race for the MacGregor, a $29.9-million listing at the epicenter of the Medical Center.

SUGAR LAND, TX-A joint venture between WC Perry Land Development LP and Cherokee Investments Partners come to terms with Imperial Sugar Co. to buy a closed 160-acre refinery. The deal includes a $5-million environmental insurance policy.