Phoenix’s Historic Districts Face Zoning Changes
Phoenix’s cherished historic neighborhoods are at a crossroads, grappling with a new state housing law set to dramatically alter their landscape. This controversial mandate allows multi-family housing in areas currently zoned exclusively for single-family homes, sparking a heated debate between preservation and affordability. Residents fear losing the unique character of their century-old communities, while proponents argue the changes are crucial for addressing the city’s housing affordability crisis.
Understanding the New State Housing Law
A new state law requires Phoenix to update its zoning ordinances, specifically targeting areas within one mile of downtown. Under this mandate, duplexes, triplexes, and fourplexes would be permitted in zones currently designated solely for single-family residences. If the city fails to implement new zoning ordinances by January 1, the state’s middle housing law will automatically take effect, and Phoenix risks losing local control over future development and design.
Historic Neighborhoods at Risk
Several of Phoenix’s iconic historic districts, including Willo, Encanto Palmcroft, La Hacienda, and Los Olivos, are directly impacted by these proposed changes. Many homes in these areas are a century old and hold national historic designations, celebrated annually through popular home tours. Bradley Brauer, president of the Willo Neighborhood Association, voiced a significant concern: the potential loss of their historic designation entirely. Residents fear that existing homes will be “gobbled up” and “bulldozed to the ground,” leading to a “decimated” historic landscape.
Preservation vs. Affordability: The Core Debate
The new law highlights a fundamental tension between preserving Phoenix’s architectural heritage and creating more accessible housing.
- Advocates for Preservation: Residents, particularly in historic districts, emphasize maintaining the unique character, historical integrity, and community feel of their neighborhoods. They express skepticism that existing design rules will adequately protect their areas from drastic changes.
- Supporters of Affordability: Proponents argue that the law is a necessary step to combat the rising cost of homeownership, which has priced out younger generations. Senator Analise Ortiz, a co-sponsor of the state legislation, shared her own struggle to find affordable housing, highlighting the need for “missing middle housing” options.
Can Development and Character Coexist?
Some developers believe it is possible to increase housing density without sacrificing neighborhood charm. Rebecca Hidalgo, a realtor behind the “Bower Willo” development, points to her project as an example. Her development incorporates a higher number of units (28 instead of 10 houses) while redesigning heritage homes to match the district’s architectural feel, aiming to integrate with the community.
Phoenix’s Dilemma: Local Control on the Line
City officials, including Planning and Zoning Deputy Director Tricia Gomes, stress that Phoenix is responding to a state mandate, not pursuing local policy changes. This situation has caused frustration among city leaders, with Councilmember Betty Guardado expressing concerns about the state’s encroachment on local governance.
| Current Zoning in Historic Districts | Potential Zoning Under New Law |
|---|---|
| Exclusively single-family homes. | Allows duplexes, triplexes, and fourplexes within one mile of downtown. |
| Local design rules apply, preserving historical character. | Risk of losing local control over design and placement if the city doesn’t comply. |
What’s Next for Phoenix?
The Phoenix City Council has delayed its vote on the zoning proposal until November 19. If the city does not update its ordinances by January 1, the state’s law will automatically take effect, potentially stripping Phoenix of its ability to locally regulate where and how multi-family structures are built. The Mayor is expected to weigh in on this critical issue during the upcoming vote.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the new state housing law?
A new Arizona state law mandates that cities allow for multi-family housing (duplexes, triplexes, fourplexes) in areas previously zoned only for single-family homes, particularly within one mile of downtown areas. - Which Phoenix neighborhoods are most affected?
Historic districts like Willo, Encanto Palmcroft, La Hacienda, and Los Olivos, which are known for their century-old, nationally designated historic homes, are facing the most significant potential changes. - Why are residents concerned about this law?
Residents fear that allowing multi-family housing could lead to the demolition of historic homes, loss of their neighborhoods’ unique character and historic designations, and a change in community aesthetic. - What is the argument for supporting this new law?
Supporters believe the law is essential for creating more affordable housing options, making homeownership accessible to younger generations who have been priced out of the current market. - When is the Phoenix City Council expected to vote on this proposal?
The Phoenix City Council has delayed its vote until November 19. If they don’t act by January 1, the state law will take effect automatically, potentially limiting local control.
This decision carries significant weight for Phoenix’s future, balancing the need for affordable housing with the desire to preserve its rich historical fabric. Residents are encouraged to stay informed and engage with their local representatives as this crucial vote approaches.
Phoenix historic zones allow multi family housing
