August 27, 2025

Phoenix Plans Extension of Taylor Mall for Pedestrian Access

News Summary

The City of Phoenix is set to extend Taylor Mall on its Downtown campus, creating a pedestrian-only right-of-way on Taylor Street. This extension aims to enhance safety and accessibility for pedestrians while reducing vehicle traffic. Key improvements will include new landscaping and shaded areas, fostering a more enjoyable environment for students and visitors. Feedback is being gathered from the community as the project moves toward final approval from the City Council. The initiative aligns with goals of sustainability and enhancing public spaces in Downtown Phoenix.

Phoenix Plans Extension of Taylor Mall for Enhanced Pedestrian Access on Downtown Campus

The City of Phoenix is on track to extend Taylor Mall on its Downtown campus, converting sections of Taylor Street into a pedestrian-only right-of-way with restricted vehicle access. This initiative aims to create a safer, more enjoyable environment for pedestrians frequenting the area, as confirmed by a spokesperson from the University.

The extension will affect Taylor Street between First and Second streets, as well as between Second and Third streets. Currently, the pedestrian mall runs from Central Avenue to First Street, serving vital institutions such as the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication and the University Center. The proposed changes will aim to reduce vehicle traffic, increase walkability, and improve the overall experience for students and visitors.

The planned improvements include new hardscaping, landscaping, shaded areas, and enhanced accessibility options for all users of the space. By extending the pedestrian mall corridor, students and visitors will benefit from increased access to essential facilities, including student housing, shops, restaurants, and the Sun Devil Campus Store, along with attractive public spaces.

Concerns regarding pedestrian safety have been highlighted, specifically about vehicles turning right onto First Street from Taylor Street, which has raised alarms about potential dangers for pedestrians. Addressing these safety issues is part of the focus of the proposed Taylor Mall extension.

The Downtown Core Community neighborhood association is currently gathering feedback through public meetings to gather community input on the project. On June 12, 2025, the Phoenix Planning and Development Department conditionally approved an abandonment application for Taylor Street. It is important to note that the abandonment process is separate from the building permit process, which has yet to commence.

The final plans for the project will require approval from the Phoenix City Council. This includes the removal of existing city infrastructure and the installation of new pedestrian crossings. The City of Phoenix and Arizona State University (ASU) have a timeframe of 2 to 3 years to meet the required stipulations before they can obtain final approval for the extension.

As part of the initial steps in this process, the section of Taylor Street between First and Second streets has been temporarily closed to vehicle traffic. Once the project achieves final approval, bollards will be installed to permanently restrict vehicle access within designated pedestrian areas. However, portions of Taylor Street will still be maintained for utility and emergency access, along with access to the Health South parking garage.

An emphasis on sustainability, community engagement, and fostering inclusive public spaces has been made by ASU as they promote this development. The extension of Taylor Mall is not just seen as a construction project but also as an essential step toward enhancing the quality of life for those who work, study, and live within the Downtown Phoenix area.

Moving forward, the City of Phoenix and ASU will continue to engage with the community and stakeholders while developing the project to better serve the diverse needs of the residents and visitors to Downtown Phoenix.

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Author: STAFF HERE PHOENIX WRITER

PHOENIX STAFF WRITER The PHOENIX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPhoenix.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Phoenix, Maricopa County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Waste Management Phoenix Open, Cactus League Spring Training, and Arizona State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce and Visit Phoenix, plus leading businesses in technology and healthcare that power the local economy such as Intel and Banner Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERETucson.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Arizona's dynamic landscape.

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