[Source: Lynn Ducey, Phoenix Business Journal]

The first sign in downtown Phoenix’s new Legends Entertainment District went up quietly this past weekend.

A rendering of digital signs planned for the Legends Entertainment District in downtown Phoenix. Provided by Phoenix Suns.

Judd Norris, the district’s general manager, said the sign was a test-run as part of the district’s efforts that will ramp up before Major League Baseball’s All-Star Game takes place at Chase Field on July 12.

The sign advertises Chevrolet and is a small static billboard on the western side of the Jefferson Street parking garage near the stadium.

The goal of the installation was to make sure all the correct processes are in place, as larger, electric LED billboards are set to be installed over the coming weeks, Norris said.

The Legends Entertainment District is aimed at illuminating and energizing the Jefferson Street corridor surrounding both Chase Field, home of the Arizona Diamondbacks, and U.S. Airways Center, home of the Phoenix Suns.

“You will really see this whole area come to life,” said Rick Welts, president and COO of the Phoenix Suns.

In addition, APS has announced its participation in the Legends Entertainment District, and will be among firms advertising on the multi-story, LED billboards and giant-sized kiosks.

“Our company is a very big part of downtown. We really view this as a way to communicate with our customers and educate our customers,” said Don Brandt, CEO of APS.

While the outreach effort is still being developed, Brandt said APS’ presence in the district will include information about energy efficiency and renewable energy options available to customers.

In addition to APS, Fox Sports Arizona is among those who will advertise in the district. The network carries both Diamondbacks and Suns games.

Brandt, Welts and Norris were among a host of city leaders and executives to attend the Downtown Phoenix Partnership Board of Directors meeting Monday. Derrick Hall, president and CEO of the Arizona Diamondbacks, was also among leaders to attend the meeting.