NW Valley Times

The 27th Avenue corridor in Phoenix, once plagued by crime and neglect, is undergoing a transformation thanks to the efforts of Grand Canyon University (GCU) and the neighborhood coalition known as 27Collab. The initiative was celebrated at the "Renewal on 27th Ave." event held near GCU's complex.

"This is a big day," remarked GCU President Brian Mueller during the event. He highlighted that neighborhood crime has decreased by 34% over five years, with violent crime down by 20% in two years. The 27Collab consists of 80 community groups working alongside the Phoenix Police Department to improve safety and foster opportunities for beautification and business.

Marvin Scott, co-chair of Berkley Square Neighbors, emphasized the area's transformation: "This area suffered from neglect for so many years, but this is the season of transformation, and the momentum is going forward."

A significant development in this effort is GCU’s new Public Safety Dispatch and Real Time Operations Center on 27th Avenue. This facility will serve both city police officers and enhance safety measures for GCU students and residents.

Phoenix Vice Mayor Ann O’Brien compared the collective efforts to a “boulder” causing a ripple effect in a lake: "Our children... deserve a safe community, and that's what this building and this partnership with Phoenix Police Department will provide us."

Dana Drew Shaw from GCU credited President Mueller for spearheading these changes. Andrea Northup played a key role in anchoring community efforts leading to the formation of 27Collab last April.

Interim Police Chief Michael Sullivan praised GCU’s dedication: "It is unparalleled what GCU has done... you're part of the change that is happening."

Alhambra Traditional Principal Andrew Feight supported these initiatives: "Today needs to give us a chance to highlight the truth that our community provides safe and high-quality educational opportunities for children."

GCU freshman Luis Gastelum shared his personal experience benefiting from university resources like tutoring programs. His story reflects broader improvements impacting local youth.

President Mueller expressed optimism about ongoing developments: “This is not the ninth inning... We're just getting started here.” With significant investments planned for further beautification projects along 27th Avenue, he envisions it becoming one of America’s most vibrant areas.

Mueller also emphasized inclusivity: “When we (GCU leadership) came here 16 years ago... Today it's [70 languages], and they're coming from all over the world.”

The celebration underlined how concerted efforts are revitalizing an area long associated with challenges into one offering promise for future generations.