The building believed to have housed Phoenix’s first drive-thru bank is scheduled for a major makeover.
Built in 1947, the former First National Bank is home to Ace Uniforms. The building at 15th Street and McDowell Road is part of a mid-century commercial strip called Miracle Mile. In 2022, Miracle Mile was listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
If the City Council approves, Phoenix’s community and economic development department will give Ace Uniforms $100,000 to help repair and restore the roof, stucco exterior and historic windows. In exchange, Ace will contribute $50,000 and maintain the building’s historic status for 30 years.
In its application for funding, Ace said it plans to bring the building “back to the original luster and hopefully use it as the "billboard" to the miracle mile. It is anticipated that the project will take 12 to 18 months to complete.”
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