Imagine
those Creekers, staff and elected officials
of the 80s and 90s. They had visions and they
had courage; the 1994 council took it upon themselves
to down‑zone properties in the north section
to five‑acre parcels. They also down‑zoned
areas of the town core to allow for decreased
density. Today we reap those benefits as their
collaborated results not only preserved Cave
Creek’s rural character, but the wildlife corridors
and habitat. We owe them for helping to keep
Cave Creek, Cave Creek.
Although
a bunch of preservation has taken place since
2000 for open space, more recent multi‑family
(new zoning MR‑8 and new resort condos)
and loft apartments(new zoning) and five casitas
for bed and breakfast creating mini‑motels
and commercial development around the town core
threaten to diminish quality of life. Streetscaping
the town core will prove to be one of the best
planning decisions made by Ian Cordwell. Having
a better pedestrian environment will be most
important to keep the town core viable and economically
sound. Folks parking and walking will also keep
the air cleaner and the core enjoyable.
As
Cave Creek Road becomes a major highway through
town, and it will with the soon‑to‑be
Lowe’s (and maybe Wal‑Mart), customers
coming from points north, northeast like Desert
Mountain, Tonto Hills, etc.; staging areas for
parking, so folks can take to their feet, will
be of great benefit. I know some businesses
have suffered while implementing the streetscape,
but look at the results.
As
a real estate broker, count “ka‑ching”
for skyrocketing property values for those businesses
with this wonderful landscaping–all compliments
of the town. Pure profit!
Many
Creekers are saying, “We have lost the battle;
Cave Creek as we know it is gone.” We must
continue to fight. If our planners can do a
great job balancing growth while maintaining
the community atmosphere, we will still have
unrivaled quality of life and hometown community–yet
close to big city amenities. Keeping the big
city amenities and fancy large buildings out
will be the challenge. Council needs to act
on the promises made in 2005 regarding defining
general commercial uses and limiting building
sizes in the town core.
Will
this streetscaping serve as the great incentive
that is needed to preserve the town’s qualities?
Even with all the bumps and grinds, and mistakes
made, I think it does. How can you look at it
and not be inspired? I rejoice every time I
pass it. This streetscape is simple, rustic
and non‑fancy. All keys to success in
Cave Creek.
Anna
Marsolo
Cave
Creek
