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Vice Mayor Greg Stanton's
North Central News Column
March 2004
As Phoenix moves forward into the new economy, it is important to look back at our history to help plan for the future. As a member of the City Council Housing, Neighborhood Economic Revitalization and Historic Preservation Subcommittee, I know how important it is to preserve local historic landmarks. There are many community treasures worth fighting for and we couldn't do it without the dedication of my colleagues Mayor Phil Gordon, who has been a long-time champion of the cause, and Councilman Doug Lingner, who chairs the subcommittee. Of course, preserving and enhancing our city's landmarks wouldn't be possible without the important work of the Historic Preservation Office.
The Historic Preservation Office identifies and designates those properties and districts eligible for listing on the Phoenix Historic Property Register. The office also administers the Historic Preservation Bond fund that supports a number of financial assistance programs for historic properties, and offers rehabilitation training and educational activities to heighten public awareness and appreciation for the community's historic resources.
The Murphy Bridle Path in North Central Phoenix is one such gem worth fighting for. And to protect this treasure, I have been working hard to designate the North Central Avenue Streetscape, which includes the Murphy Bridle Path, as a local historic landmark.
The Murphy Bridle Path has a long and proud history and has been a favorite place for neighbors to enjoy since 1895. The 2.5-mile trail has seen Phoenix evolve from a small western town into the modern community that we all call home. The path runs along Central Avenue between Bethany Home Road north to the Arizona Canal and is a place of peace and reflection in the heart of our city.
The streetscape includes the entire 100-foot right-of-way of North Central Avenue from Bethany Home Road to the Arizona Canal as well as the street, trees lining the street on both sides, the canal that runs lateral on the west side and the bridle path.
The Historic Preservation Office already has begun the historic designation process for the North Central Avenue Streetscape. After much community input, it is expected to go before the City Council for a vote in July.
I had solicited neighbors' input for stories and memories about the bridle path and am appreciative of the dozens of letters I received that will help with the designation effort. I will keep you apprised of the progress.
The Murphy Bridle path also is one of the 10 finalists for the next Point of Pride site. The deadline is March 12 to vote for your favorite Point of Pride. Choose one from among the 10 finalists recently selected from more than 70 sites nominated by the public in fall 2003. A Point of Pride is a landmark or attraction unique to, and located within, the city of Phoenix that evokes a sense of pride among area residents. Visit
www.pride.azcentral.com to vote for your favorite or send a postcard to City of Phoenix PIO (MC), 200 W. Washington St. , 12th floor, Phoenix , AZ 85003 .
Historic preservation is so vital to our city and I look forward to what Phoenix 's history preserves for our future.
If you have comments or concerns about this topic or any others, please feel free to call my office at 602-262-7491, send an e-mail to greg.stanton@phoenix.gov or visit my Web site at
www.phoenix.gov/DISTRICT6
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