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Garfield Substation Project
aps
About the Project
APS is upgrading and expanding the Garfield Substation at the southwest corner of Roosevelt Street and 2nd Street. This project will increase electrical capacity and reliability to support the continued growth and vitality of Downtown Phoenix.
In collaboration with the City of Phoenix and the downtown community, APS has worked to design a site that enhances reliability, safety and security while contributing to the pedestrian-friendly character of the Roosevelt Row Arts District. The updated substation will blend modern infrastructure with thoughtful urban design, reflecting the creativity and energy of the surrounding neighborhood.
Timeline:
2022
- A community focus group was formed, including residents and local business owners selected by the Evans Churchill Neighborhood Association and Roosevelt Row Community Development Corporation (CDC).
- Initial design concepts were developed with input from the focus group.
2023
- A public open house was held to share early design ideas.
- A preference survey gathered feedback from local businesses and property owners.
2024
- The design was refined based on community and stakeholder feedback.
- The City of Phoenix approved the project’s pre-application.
2025
- Spring: APS hosted a public open house showcasing the updated design, followed by a Design Review Committee hearing.
- Fall: City of Phoenix staff approved the preliminary site plan.
- Winter: Final City approvals, Historic Preservation review for building demolition, and preparation for construction.
2026
- Removal of existing buildings and substation.
- Road-adjacent and exterior substation wall construction.
2027
- Construction of the new building, substation and surrounding improvements.
- Installation of public art and shade structures.
Community Updates
Community Letter - August 2026
Contact Us
For questions or additional information regarding the project, please contact the Design and Entitlements Consultant to APS Trevor Barger at trevor@espirituloci.com or (480) 570-5790. Please reference work order #WE013696.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is this project important?
Downtown has grown rapidly over the last two decades and in order to support the growth of the area, the electrical infrastructure needs to be upgraded and expanded.
How did APS identify this project?
We regularly monitor and evaluate the system and infrastructure to ensure we can provide reliable service now and into the future. This project was identified because the existing substation was aging and the need for additional power has increased.
Will there be a power outage?
No, we do not anticipate outages. If there is a need for an outage, affected customers will be notified in advance. The notification will include the date and duration of the planned outage.
Will there be any digging or excavation?
There will be some work in the surrounding streets and alley to upgrade the existing electrical infrastructure, enhance sidewalks and widen the alley. Adjacent residents and business owners will be notified of construction.
Was the old building removed?
As of May 2026, the building previously on the site was removed. The new building will include gallery, meeting and retail space for community activations.
What happened to the murals on the walls of the substation?
The wall previously surrounding the substation was demolished and will be rebuilt around the new, expanded substation. The original muralists will be invited to reprise their murals as part of a larger public art installation.
Who was in the Focus Group for the Substation Design?
- Carla Logan – Owner of Carly’s Bistro and the building north of the site
- Eunique Yazzie – Local artist, business owner and representative for the Evans Churchill neighborhood
- Isaac Caruso – Local artist with the most existing murals on the Garfield Substation walls
- Kell Duncan – Owner of The Churchill (adjacent to the site) and board member of Roosevelt Row Community Development Corporation
