In a significant step forward, a plan to demolish the current Phoenix Police Department headquarters has received the backing of the city’s Planning and Zoning Commission as the first step in the eventual building of a mixed-use project.
Located at the intersection of Seventh Avenue and Washington Street, the four-story building, which was completed in 1975, has long been characterized as out of date for current law enforcement needs and subject to a number of structural issues.
Last year it was announced that the Police Department would move its main administrative offices to 100 W. Washington Street, in a structure that formerly housed a Wells Fargo location. The city purchased that 27-story building four years ago for $46.5 million.
Once the old police department structure is demolished, the City of Phoenix, which owns the site, would like to see the development of a mixed-use project that would include residential and retail space, as well as an outside plaza.
A rezoning request for the site, allowing for greater residential unit density and construction of a 20-story building, must still be reviewed and approved by the Phoenix City Council.
According to published reports, work could begin on the project sometime in 2027 if the council’s approval is secured.
February 13, 2025
By Garry Boulard
Old Postcard of Phoenix
