PRE-LEASING UNDERWAY FOR INNOVATIVE "GREEN" SHOPPING CENTER PROJECT IN LA QUINTA

Public Record, The, Jun 24, 2008

Longtime developers noted for their environmentally responsible construction, Talbert Development, is now pre-leasing for their "green" shopping center, The Shoppes of La Quinta. The commercial project will be a LEED certified shopping center located on Washington Street at Avenue 48.

The Shoppes of La Quinta will combine the best of new millennium architecture and energy efficient design. The father and son team of Dick and Jeff Talbert, owners of Talbert Development, say the center will offer the community a functional yet inviting destination for business and entertainment.

"We're determined to create a shopping center beyond expectation filled with vibrant businesses and unique merchants," says Dick Talbert, President, Talbert Development, Inc. "To ensure that end result, we're dedicated to building one of the most efficient, innovative and forward thinking retail complexes anywhere in the country."

The state-of-the-art retail development will be built on four acres off Washington Street at Avenue 48. The upscale center will feature 50,000 square feet of restaurants, boutiques and other lifestyle shops. Landscaping design will feature outdoor benches, fountains, trees, green areas, outdoor music, and an elegantly paved parking lot.

Along with the contractor, WL Butler, and the architect, Perkowitz and Ruth, the developers are designing the shopping center utilizing the latest eco-friendly commercial construction components. The center plans will be submitted for pre-certification with the U.S. Green Building Council as a Gold Level LEED project. This will be the second green retail center brought to the Coachella Valley by Talbert Development. They are also currently developing an environmentally responsible shopping center in Rancho Mirage called The Shoppes of Rancho Mirage, which was unanimously approved by the City Council last week.

Some of the anticipated LEED certification features for the project include 20-40% energy savings over existing building standards, cool roof technology, ultra- high efficiency A/C units, low E2 double-pane windows, highly insulated walls, drip irrigation, and on-site electric refueling stations for golf carts and cars.

Pre-leasing is underway for this unparalleled location with high visibility, easy access and a growing population base. Restaurant and retail space is available from 1500 sq. ft. to 20,000 sq. ft. The project timeline anticipates a fall groundbreaking with occupancy in early 2009.

For more information call 341-8080 or visit www.ShoppesofLaQuinta.com.