McDowell Road Revitalization Project

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​​Community Engagement

The Phoenix Street Transportation Department will host an in-person public meeting to provide an update about the McDowell Road Revitalization Project:

Monday, May 20, 2024; 6 p.m.
North High School Cafeteria, 1101 E. Thomas Rd. 

About the Project

The Phoenix Street Transportation Department is in the study phase of a project to revitalize the McDowell Road corridor between 7th Street and State Route 51 (Piestewa Freeway). The focus of this study is to identify and confirm community-supported safety and aesthetic improvements to achieve four main goals:

  • Creating a safer and more inviting area for people walking or riding bicycles to locations along the corridor 
  • Improving navigation in and around the retail areas
  • Enhancing access to transit
  • Fostering a sense of place and identity

This project is intended to promote pedestrian safety by working with the surrounding community to discuss and identify potential corridor improvements that emphasize safety, comfort and connectivity for all users. This project aligns with the city's Vision Zero Road Safety Action Plan and overall vision to prioritize safety and transportation access. 

The study phase is funded by the Maricopa Association of Governments (MAG). 

Virtual Public Meeting: September 20, 2022


Virtual Public Meeting: October 3, 2023

A live virtual public meeting was hosted via Webex on October 3, 2023 at 6 p.m., to provide a project update to the community. ​​​A video recording of the meeting is viewable above and on YouTube​.​​

A community survey was available in English and Spanish from October 3 through November 30, 2023.​ Thank you to the many community members who participated and provided input about this project.

Project Option Diagrams

Concept Option 1
Concept Option 2Concept Option 3


Corridor Opportunities and Features
  • Frequent bus service
  • Established McDowell Miracle Mile brand
  • Diverse, unique local businesses
  • Wayfinding
  • Public art / murals
  • Micromobility / bikeshare / scootershare
  • Large amount of development underway
  • Ties to historic neighborhoods
  • Medical employment
  • Historic structures
  • Shade trees / existing sidewalks
  • Bicycle and transit connections from adjacent streets

​​Roll Plot - Overhead View of Corridor

The map linked below shows the corridor and general overview of where the City of Phoenix right-of-way exists. This is subject to surveying, but will give residents a general idea of how the city could work within the existing right-of-way space. 

McDowell Road Corridor from 7th St to SR 51 Roll Plot

Project Contacts

Public Information: Albert Granillo at 623-825-3444 or agranillo@barnhartco.com​

​Project Manager: Brandy Ruark​ at 602-495-2068 or brandy.ruark@phoenix.gov​


Map of Project Area

Map of Project Area Extending from 7th St to SR 51


Existing Conditions

​Note: Images intentionally blurred to obscure license plates, stickers or identifying information.Photo collage showing existing conditions on roadExisting conditions walking paths and storefronts