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The City of Glendale’s Director of Economic Development has announced that he will retire later this year after 23 years in a role shaping a number of successful projects in the West Valley community.

Brian Friedman works with brokers, developers, corporations, local, state, and international leaders to create luxury auto dealerships, flagship casinos, numerous experiential retail attractions, and thousands of hotel rooms, including Arizona. It has played a key leadership role in bringing projects to the city. Largest resort under construction, multiple global companies, and a fast-growing manufacturing hub along Loop 303.

Other significant developments during his leadership tenure include State Farm Stadium, Desert Diamond Arena and Westgate Entertainment District. All of this started the transformation of Glendale, which today boasts one of the largest sports and entertainment districts in the country.

His entire career spans over 30 years, including serving as Director of Planning for Santa Cruz County and the City of Tucson’s Department of Transportation Engineering.

Glendale Mayor Jerry P. Wyers said in a statement: “He has deep knowledge and the ability to earn the trust of all types of people. I am proud to have worked with him and wish him the best in his retirement.”

With the support of the city council and mayor, Friedman spurred billions of dollars in capital investment in his last few years alone, establishing Glendale as a major employment center and entertainment mecca.

“Through our long-standing partnership between the City of Glendale and the Greater Phoenix Economic Council, we have worked on numerous projects including Red Bull, Marc Anthony Brewing, Alaska Federal Credit Union, Coca-Cola and Williams-Sonoma,” said Greater Phoenix. said Chris Camacho of The Economic Council CEO said, “Brian and the Glendale team have achieved a record permitting pace at the American Furniture Warehouse and other major projects promoting the ‘Welcome to Glendale’ brand that Glendale maintains. has been set. ”

Friedman announced plans to retire in August.

“It has been a real pleasure working with Brian Friedman over the years. Brian played a key role in the development of the West Valley entertainment district, Westgate. “His work will continue to have a positive impact on Glendale and the region.”

An Arizona native, Friedman earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business and Community Development and a Master of Science degree in Planning and Urban Design from the University of Arizona. Special emphasis is placed on transport engineering.

Kevin Phelps, Glendale City Manager, said, “Brian’s business acumen and list of achievements are remarkable. I have had the pleasure of working with him as a direct report to me for the past seven years. “Brian is a highly capable and likeable person who has developed strong relationships with the business community, city officials and the public in a way that inspires trust and confidence. , will be seen for years to come.”