"The District," as its known by Phoenix-based Vestar DevelopmentCo., will deliver a retail lineup sure to appeal to a demographicwith strong clout. "The District is definitely designed with the'Gen Y' consumer in mind," says David Larcher, Vestar executivevice president. "We spent a lot of time talking with young peoplein this age group before designing 'The District' and reallylistened to them regarding what they want in a lifestyle andentertainment center."

Based on Census 2000 results, Gen Y represents more than 600,000young people in Maricopa County alone. The Gen Y group includesyouth between 10 and 24 years old and generally the offspring ofBaby Boomers. "What we've created is really the best possible mixfor parents and kids alike," says Larcher. "We're developing anexciting, high-energy, interactive shopping, dining andentertainment experience that's going to engage the senses in a waythat's never been done before."

The central attraction of 'The District' is an 18-screen,4,000-seat, state-of-the-art AMC Desert Ridge 18 Theater. Alsogrouped in the area will be stores such as Juxtapose, TowerRecords, Eye Candy, Barnes & Noble, Anchor Blue, Limited Too,Pacific Sunwear, Joe Boxer, Levi's Original Store, Athletic Zone,Claire's Accessories, Sunglass Hut and Hot Topic.