Tempe has updated the city’s Historic Preservation Plan, which identifies goals and policies for historic preservation in Tempe.

Historic Preservation Plan

City staff conducted outreach throughout 2021 and 2022 to residents, City staff, and other stakeholders, as well as Tribal governments, to seek input and comments. The information gathered was integral to formulating and revising the update to the Historic Preservation Plan.

On May 11, 2022, the Tempe Historic Preservation Commission approved forwarding the updated plan to City Council for approval. City Council unanimously adopted the plan at its June 23, 2022, meeting.

The goals and priorities provided in the plan will contribute to community planning while protecting and celebrating Tempe’s heritage.

In November 1995, the Tempe City Council unanimously adopted the Tempe Historic Preservation Ordinance, which includes the previous Historic Preservation Plan. Aside from minor revisions adopted on June 15, 2000, the two-page plan drafted remained the City’s guiding document in its efforts to apply the historic preservation ordinance, until the adoption of the new preservation plan in June 2022. The City's original preservation plan is available in an appendix of the updated plan.

Tempe enjoys a rich multi-cultural heritage evident through its historic buildings, neighborhoods and landmarks. Less visible, but equally important, are the archaeological resources of Tempe's past. Protection and enhancement of Tempe's heritage is critical to preserving the unique identity of our community. The blending of the past with the present enriches our city and those who live here or visit us.