City updates downtown zoning and sign regulations to enhance walkability in Old Town

In the heart of Peoria, Arizona, city officials gathered under the bright lights of the city hall to discuss significant updates aimed at revitalizing the downtown area. The meeting, held on April 30, 2025, focused on enhancing the character and walkability of Old Town, a district that aims to blend residential living with small-scale commercial activity.

City planners presented a detailed overview of the zoning regulations that have been crafted to support this vision. The Old Town mixed-use core, marked in dark red on city maps, is designed to foster a vibrant commercial environment, while the surrounding areas, highlighted in orange, will primarily focus on residential development with allowances for smaller commercial ventures. This strategic zoning aims to create a neighborhood that feels distinct from the busier thoroughfares like Bell Road, promoting a more intimate and community-oriented atmosphere.

Since the establishment of downtown design guidelines in 1998, the city has made continuous efforts to update these regulations, with the latest revisions occurring in February 2022. These guidelines are crucial for maintaining the architectural integrity and heritage of the area, ensuring that new developments respect the character of Old Town while enhancing public spaces that encourage pedestrian activity.

As part of the meeting, officials discussed proposed amendments to the sign code, recognizing that downtown Peoria's unique character requires tailored regulations. The current citywide sign code will be adjusted to better suit the downtown environment, allowing for more creative and visually appealing signage that can enhance the streetscape. This includes increasing the allowable size for projecting signs from 12 to 36 square feet on main streets, a move aimed at fostering a more engaging urban landscape.

Additionally, the city plans to permit neon signage along key thoroughfares, provided that these signs are equipped with automatic dimming technology to ensure they do not disrupt the residential ambiance nearby. The proposed changes also include specific guidelines for canopy signage, encouraging business owners to utilize awnings and canopies as a means of both shade and advertising.

These updates reflect Peoria's commitment to creating a downtown that is not only functional but also inviting and reflective of the community's identity. As the city moves forward with these initiatives, residents can look forward to a revitalized Old Town that balances residential comfort with vibrant commercial activity, ultimately enhancing the quality of life for all who live and work in the area.