The downtown El Presidio Historic neighborhood includes mansions (now mostly converted to office space) and charming residences in the area between the Santa Cruz River channel and Church Street, Alameda and 6th Streets. Over the past few years, a large portion has been restored to an almost authentic feel with the removal of overhead utility lines and streetscaping. Only one oddly-shaped little piece of city-owned land remains, at the corner of Paseo Redondo and Main Street, to finish the job.
In 2007, the Arizona Historical Advisory Commission designated the neighborhood’s “Centennial Park” project as an official Arizona Centennial Legacy Project. Gerald Talen, the retired banker who originated the idea, was granted $55,000 through the State Legislature to implement what he characterizes as “the last piece of neighborhood enhancement.” His pocket park will transform what is now a rubble-filled 130 foot by 30 foot parcel into “a pedestrian oasis featuring a curved walkway, benches, landscaping and panels to interpret Tucson’s history.”
Recognition of the State of Arizona’s Centennial on February 14, 2012 lags, and at the State level of government, only a few organizations exist. No funds have been allocated or plans to celebrate been solidified. The non-profit Arizona Centennial 2012 Foundation seems inactive.
In order to help make Tucson’s Centennial Park a reality, a fund has been set up at US Bank so people can purchase a 4 inch by 8 inch brick (16 characters, three lines of text) for $200. Volunteers are welcome – history buffs especially. In addition to the neighborhood association, other supporters include Mayor Robert Walkup, City Parks and Recreation, The Arizona State Museum, the Arizona Historical Society, the Tucson Museum of Art and the Sonoran Institute. Centennial Memorial Forms are available from Centennialpk@yahoo.com.
In 2007, the Arizona Historical Advisory Commission designated the neighborhood’s “Centennial Park” project as an official Arizona Centennial Legacy Project. Gerald Talen, the retired banker who originated the idea, was granted $55,000 through the State Legislature to implement what he characterizes as “the last piece of neighborhood enhancement.” His pocket park will transform what is now a rubble-filled 130 foot by 30 foot parcel into “a pedestrian oasis featuring a curved walkway, benches, landscaping and panels to interpret Tucson’s history.”
Recognition of the State of Arizona’s Centennial on February 14, 2012 lags, and at the State level of government, only a few organizations exist. No funds have been allocated or plans to celebrate been solidified. The non-profit Arizona Centennial 2012 Foundation seems inactive.
In order to help make Tucson’s Centennial Park a reality, a fund has been set up at US Bank so people can purchase a 4 inch by 8 inch brick (16 characters, three lines of text) for $200. Volunteers are welcome – history buffs especially. In addition to the neighborhood association, other supporters include Mayor Robert Walkup, City Parks and Recreation, The Arizona State Museum, the Arizona Historical Society, the Tucson Museum of Art and the Sonoran Institute. Centennial Memorial Forms are available from Centennialpk@yahoo.com.
