David Matheson of Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide Inc., headquartered in White Plains, NY, tells GlobeSt.com that the new resort, operated by Westin, will be located adjacent to the firm's current resort and spa at 6902 E Greenway Parkway. "Construction will start in the first quarter next year," Matheson said, adding the luxury timeshare facility is scheduled to open in early 2004.

The new resort complex, the first in the area to be operated by Westin, will feature two-bedroom villas, swimming pools and tennis courts, set against a spectacular mountain backdrop near some of the finest golf courses in Arizona. In addition to the resort amenities, Matheson said guests will also have access to the facilities at the Kierland Resort & Spa, which offers massage treatments, luxury restaurants, health club, specialty boutiques and 60,000 sf of indoor meeting rooms and function space.

Adjacent to the villas will be the Kierland Golf Club with three nine-hole golf courses and a pro shop along with outdoor courtyards with mesquite-fired fireplaces. A 38-acre specialty retail development featuring shops and restaurants also will be within walking distance of the facility.