Phoenix’s Roosevelt Row named one nation’s top neighborhoods

PHOENIX — The American Planning Association has named Phoenix’s Roosevelt Row area as one of the best neighborhoods in the nation.

The neighborhood was chosen based on planning features, such as its excellence in community engagement, economic benefits and quality of character.

“There’s an amazing group of people down here that have rolled up their sleeves and made this happen,” Cindy Dach, a member of the Roosevelt Row Community Development Corporation Board, said. “It’s very exciting.”

The district is a hot spot in downtown Phoenix for award-winning restaurants, galleries, boutiques and live music.

Roosevelt Row is also nationally known for its art and culture events, such as First Fridays, a monthly celebration complete with vendors, artists and dining. Many festivals occur throughout the year in the neighborhood, such as the Seventh Annual Pie Social happening in November.

“The community and neighborhood was built by the people that live and work here,” Dach said. “It’s a very ground-up, hands-on type of district.”

Fifteen places annually receive the honor of being named one of APA’s Great Places in America, which includes neighborhoods, public spaces and streets. Only four neighborhoods were chosen this year. Aside from Roosevelt Row, neighborhoods in Kansas City; Plano, Texas; and Miami were also recognized.