Another year in the books, another year in achievements for Phoenix Community Alliance going into its 40^th anniversary! Join us for a tour through the organization in 2022 – as told by our social media throughout the year.

Formed in 1983, Phoenix Community Alliance is a business advocacy organization focused on connectivity and collaboration between businesses, urbanists, non-profits and government agencies to collectively build a thriving Phoenix.

As 2023 fast approaches, PCA encourages its Members and followers to stay engaged with the organization, and watch social media, as important milestones for both the organization and the city emerge.

Hurray for Multi-Modal!

It was a highly successful year for PCA’s Multi-Modal Committee.

“Published on PCA’s social media, September 8: #BREAKING The Vision Zero Road Safety Action Plan is now approved! Yesterday, City Council voted 9-0 to allocate $10 million annually to reduce traffic fatalities on our city streets by adopting the initiative. Additionally, the vote allows the city to receive federal grant money to administer the plan.” (Photo by Taylor Costello)

In January, the City of Phoenix adopted Vision Zero, a comprehensive road safety action plan built around the philosophy that traffic-related deaths and serious injuries are preventable. The plan includes long-term modifications to improve public roads and make them safer for all users—pedestrians, bicyclists, public transportation riders and motorists.

PCA leadership, at the request of the Multi-Modal Committee, consistently advocated for Vision Zero’s full implementation and funding.

In September, Phoenix City Council and Mayor Kate Gallego voted 9-0 to allocate $10 million annually to reduce traffic fatalities on our city streets.

Published on PCA’s social media, March 29: At a recent meeting, Phoenix City Council voted to extend the e-scooter program another year into March 2023. The meeting bore productive fruit, including Class 1 and 2 e-bikes, which travel up to 20 mph, being allowed to be used for travel. (Graphic by Taylor Costello)

PCA supported the expansion of the geo-fence boundaries of the micro-mobility pilot program. This fall, two operators were designated to participate in the program and PCA voiced support for the inclusion of a third to ensure adequate coverage. Look for more scooters, e-bikes and pedal bikes in 2023.

PCA Plays Pivotal Role in G.O. Bond Advocacy

The last time the public voted on a General Obligation (G.O.) Bond was 16 years ago. Back in 2006, light rail was approved but not built. The ASU downtown campus was not yet rooted. CityScape was still Patriots Square Park.

Suffice it to say our city has evolved quite a bit.

PCA used the full weight of our organization to advocate for projects, based on recommendations from our Committees in August. GO Bond projects PCA advocated for included historic preservation, Hance Park revitalization, arts and culture funding and a proposed ASU Health Technology Center.

Published on PCA’s social media, August 4: #ICYMI: In June, the city moved forward with a proposed Bond program of $500 million. GO Bond programs help to fund City’s critical infrastructure and rehabilitation needs and other proposed projects. (Graphic by Taylor Costello)

Phoenix Community Alliance on Instagram: “#ICYMI: @cityofphoenixaz’s General Obligation (GO) Bond Program, starting August 8 @ 10AM! In June, the city moved forward with a proposed…”

City Council approved the recommendations at a December 13^th session and voters decide during a special election in November 2023 whether or not to adopt the program.

Expect to see PCA lending our collective voice for these important investments in greater Downtown Phoenix!

Telling Our Stories

With the arrival of a new Content Specialist last fall, PCA placed increased emphasis on telling stories of its daily advocacy, Members and Committees, as well as uncovering a nearly four decade old history.

In November, PCA published the first entry of City-Shapers, a blog series on past and present thought leaders within the organization. The inaugural blog focused on current Board Chair Diane Haller, with a follow up article that focuses on her immediate predecessor, and current Social & Housing Advancement (SHA) Committee Chair, Mo Stein, soon in the works.

The inaugural PCA City-Shapers blog, a focus on current Board Chair Diane Haller, published on the Downtown Phoenix Inc. platform, on November 10, 2022. (Graphic & Photos by Taylor Costello)

In November, PCA debuted “City-Shapers,” a blog series featuring profiles of past and present thought leaders within the organization. Current board chair Diane Haller and Social and Housing Advancement Committee chair Mo Stein were first to be featured, with past board chair Marty Shultz, former vice chair Kurt Schneider and longtime board member Kendra Lee upcoming.

Expect profiles on Past Board Chair Marty Shultz, Former Vice Chair Kurt Schneider and Board member Kendra Lee in the New Year!

Welcome Patrick McDaniel!

In mid-March, Phoenix Community Alliance welcomed Patrick McDaniel to the team.

As PCA’s Senior Membership Services & Development Manager, Patrick strengthens the organization’s overall connectivity with its existing Members, cultivates new Memberships, and works with the Membership Development Committee on creating programming.

Published on PCA’s social media, April 7: Meet our newest member to the PCA Team, Patrick McDaniel! (Graphic & Photo by Taylor Costello)

Old Fashioned Shoe Leather Advocacy

A lot of advocacy within PCA involved walking over to City Hall, about a five minute walk from the Phoenix Community Alliance offices. During any particular year, staff takes an hour to journey to council chambers to advocate upon positions, which may originate as a request from any of our Committees, Executive Officer or Committee Chair.

In 2022, PCA staff spoke on behalf for 42 individual requests, including the General Obligation (G.O.) Bond subcommittees. This does not include letters of support or opposition for legislation we’ve submitted.

Lastly, PCA championed the acquisition and conversion of former hotels by the city for transformation into permanent supportive housing, and transferring some city-owned parcels to a Community Land Trust, so they may remain indefinitely affordable. A historic goal of the organization, this past year may mark a turning point in addressing local housing shortages.

Published on PCA’s social media, November 4: “Lots of positive developments are afoot in greater downtown and beyond! Check out these takeaways from the Social, Housing and Advancement (SHA) Committee in October.” (Graphic by Taylor Costello)