After nearly a decade of searching for a new use for an old firehouse, Phoenix leaders think they’ve found the right partner.
Poolhouse Group, a local company behind Gadzooks and the Green Woodpecker restaurants, is expected to open a full-service eatery in the former firehouse at downtown’s Hance Park.
Councilman Carlos Galindo-Elvira, who represents the area, said, “It's going to be a beautiful opportunity for the Hance Park community to engage, to utilize, and it's a great reuse of an existing building to keep its historic status, but also to bring it into modernity.”
If the council approves, Phoenix will provide $2.4 million to modernize the 73- year-old building's roof, plumbing and electrical systems.
Poolhouse will cover costs to build the actual restaurant and pay Phoenix $128,580 in rent per year, with a 3% increase annually. The deal calls for the restaurant to provide indoor and outdoor seating and be open for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
