Item Coversheet
CITY OF PEORIA, ARIZONA
COUNCIL COMMUNICATION
 
Agenda Item: 1. 


Date Prepared:  9/22/2025 Council Meeting Date: 10/7/2025

PRESENTER:
Marylou Stephens 
TO:Mike Faust, City Manager 
THROUGH:
Kevin Burke, Deputy City Manager 
FROM:  Marylou Stephens, Arts, Culture & Library Services Director 
SUBJECT:
Downtown Update – Historic Schoolhouse Arts and Culture Center and Water Tower Entryway Monument 

Purpose:

The Arts, Culture, and Library Services Department will present an update on two Downtown projects: The historic schoolhouse will be reimagined and renovated as a new arts and culture center, and a new entryway monument will add to the revitalization of Downtown.

Summary:

The presentation will give an overview of two projects in the Downtown Core: The Historic Schoolhouse Arts and Culture Center renovation and the Water Tower Entryway Monument.

 

The two-room schoolhouse, known as Central School, was designed in Mission Revival style and was completed in 1906. The schoolhouse is listed on the National Register of Historical Places and represents an important piece of Peoria history. The Peoria Historic Schoolhouse served as a place of education and enrichment for generations. That tradition will continue and be re-imagined for the 21st century as the Peoria Arts and Culture Center.

 

The Water Tower Entryway Monument will be positioned at the northeast corner of Osuna Park where it will be visible from Peoria and Grand Avenues. This landmark entryway monument will be an homage to Peoria’s history and welcome residents and visitors to Downtown with a digital display that showcases the beauty of Peoria and the energy of Downtown as a destination for enjoyment for residents and visitors.

 

ATTACHMENTS:
Description
The Schoolhouse Overview
Contact Name and Number:  
Marylou Stephens (623)773-7968