There’s a lot of buzz goin’ on downtown and the Rio Nuevo Board is behind a good handful of it. For instance, in a recent meeting, the Board — unanimous on every agenda item — approved projects like a new highrise hotel and residential complex, a new bar and restaurant on Congress, and a few other concepts.

Corbett Lane’s food, beer & games

First, there’s something rather exciting in the works inside the historic building on the corner of Sixth Avenue and Seventh Street. Developer Scott Stiteler and his team at Phase One are planning to renovate the Corbett Building, naming it Corbett Lane.

It’ll shape up to be an “old school” burger joint, a beer garden, five pickleball courts, and 188 parking spots. Simply reading the words “188 parking spots” is enough to make anyone jolly, right?

More than likely, you’re familiar with the empty building, which is near EXO Roast Co., Tap & Bottle, and other wonderful local businesses in the area. Additionally, the team behind the constuction has a goal to beautify the corner by installing better lighting, planters, and more.

TABU — a Latin fusion restaurant

Oh, but there’s more happening just through the underpass and farther south.

There’s a new downtown restaurant called TABU by developers Zeus Sainz, Jesus Mario Ramirez, and Paul Mendoza is moving in at 128 E. Congress. This is the space found butted up against the former Chicago Store location and near the whiskey bar Batch.

“They have developed a menu unique to downtown and are wanting to invest in the people of Tucson,” Rio Nuevo released in a statement about the Latin fusion venue.

Reilly Craft Pizza & Drink’s rooftop dining area

Finally, the Rio Nuevo Board ended the meeting by authorizing an additional chunk of change toward the construction of a rooftop bar at Reilly Craft Pizza & Drink.

The project was announced and approved almost a year ago but hit a snag due to rising construction costs. Although, construction should be getting a move on very soon up on the rooftop.

For more information about the Rio Nuevo Board’s upcoming projects and any updates on completion dates, visit rionuevo.org.