Phoenix Community Alliance Announces Next Phase of Hance Park Revitalization with $1.5 Million Campaign to Reimagine Central Ave. Access
Every great city has a great park, and in Phoenix, a movement is underway to continue the transformation of Margaret T. Hance Park into a vital urban destination and hub of civic, cultural and economic life. As this landmark project accelerates, Arizona Public Service (APS) is pledging $250,000 to support the addition of the “Hance Park Gateway Staircases,” which will create a grand entryway and inviting welcome to the park from Central Avenue.
The Margaret T. Hance Park Revitalization Project is a public-private partnership led by the Hance Park Partner Coalition, consisting of the Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department, Phoenix Community Alliance and Hance Park Conservancy.
On Tuesday, March 10, leadership from the Hance Park Partner Coalition will convene with the Valley’s leading builders, developers and business leaders to formally acknowledge APS as a lead donor and unveil the next steps of the renovation effort, including a $3 million commitment from the City of Phoenix’s 2023 General Obligation Bond Program.
In addition to sharing how visionary partners, strategic investments and a collaborative spirit are accelerating this landmark project forward, attendees will participate in a walking tour of the park and get an intimate look at the next big park milestone.
The Hance Park Gateway project reimagines four key stairway entrances into the park to improve safety, accessibility and overall connectivity. Redesigned staircases and sloped pathways will enhance circulation and visibility, while updated landscaping with shade trees and drought-tolerant plantings will create a more cohesive and functional park entry experience. Together, these improvements will strengthen the connection between the surrounding areas and one of Downtown Phoenix’s signature public spaces.
Creating a Great Urban Park
Hance Park, which spans 32 acres over the I-10 tunnel, is located steps from Burton Barr Library, the Japanese Friendship Garden and a growing arts district. Led by the City of Phoenix, with Phoenix Community Alliance spearheading the private fundraising, this $100M project is now in its ninth year.
Phoenix Community Alliance has already secured $4 million in private support for Hance Park improvements, including $2 million for the Fiesta Bowl Play project, which opened in 2020, and $2 million for the Republic Services Garden, which debuted in 2023.
“Creating safe, welcoming connections into Hance Park is essential to realizing the park’s full potential as Downtown Phoenix’s signature public space,” said Tim Sprague, Principal, Habitat Metro and Co-Chair of the Phoenix Community Alliance Hance Park Fundraising Committee. “Our vision is to continue the effort, turning Hance Park into Downtown’s gathering place that creates community, lifts residential value and strengthens the entire urban core.”
The fully re-envisioned park will serve as an engine for the residential, retail, hospitality, education and office markets that comprise Downtown Phoenix.
As a hub of recreation and activity, the park is a destination that transcends differences to unite individuals, families and groups with diverse backgrounds and interests.
“Hance Park is an important part of District 7 and a space that brings our community together,” said Phoenix City Councilmember Anna Hernandez. “The staircase improvements will strengthen access to the park and help ensure that this space continues to grow as a safe and welcoming destination for our neighborhoods and the broader Downtown community.”
Rallying Community Supporters
Ultimately, the public-private multi-phase revitalization initiative is poised to transform Hance Park into a gathering place that anchors where people live, work, learn, recreate and spend time Downtown. It’s a collaborative effort that relies on civic support but also business leaders who share a commitment to creating a thriving hub of activity where culture, business and people come together.
“Generous partners have been instrumental in bringing projects like the Fiesta Bowl Play and Republic Services Garden to fruition within the park, but there’s still more to accomplish,” said Devney Majerle, President and CEO, Downtown Phoenix Inc. “Downtown Phoenix Inc. remains committed to working alongside our partners to support a vibrant and healthy Downtown. Investments like the Hance Park Gateway improvements help create welcoming spaces that enhance the overall experience of being Downtown.”
The support from APS is providing an essential foundation that others can build upon. Ultimately, the project is expected to require a $3 million match to the City’s funding for completion.
“APS is proud to be a supporter of the Hance Park Gateway project and the continued revitalization of Margaret T. Hance Park,” said Stacy Derstine, Vice President of External Affairs for APS. “Investments like this strengthen Downtown Phoenix and help create vibrant public spaces that benefit the entire community. We’re excited to help move this important project forward.”
Looking Ahead
Over the coming weeks and months, the committee will continue seeking private commitments to extend funds pledged by APS and the City of Phoenix. Once funding is fully secured, the project will open for bids through a formal request for proposals process.
Businesses interested in learning more about adding their support or participating in the bid are welcome to attend the breakfast on March 10. Reserved seating is available by contacting Dominic Papa, Senior Director, Phoenix Community Alliance, at 480-267-7408 or dpapa@dtphx.org.