We are proud to invite you to enjoy our pedestrian amenities, which have won numerous awards, as you shop and dine in the Melrose District.

The canopies provide shade during the day and light at night. The art panels provide an opportunity to take in the talents of our local artist and the landscaping and colored concrete all contribute to the identity of the Melrose District.

The Seventh Avenue Merchants Association (SAMA) is an all-volunteer association of business owners and a textbook example of how limited CDBG resources can be leveraged to the fullest for successful business corridor revitalization. This award is presented to SAMA based on its extensive use of partnerships and in appreciation of the many long hours that each member has contributed over the years.

SAMA was formed in 1997 to combat deterioration of the 7th Avenue Corridor caused by the decline of inner city core neighborhoods, competition from suburban shopping centers, street widening projects, and aging infrastructure. Through extensive visioning and planning supported in part by CDBG and the Local Initiatives Support Corporation, SAMA developed an identity and strategic plan to guide the revitalization of the area far into the future. This, along with hard work and extensive use of partnerships, resulted in award winning improvements including lighted art panels, pedestrian friendly streetscaping and amenities, safety and cleanliness, and decorative art banners along the strip. Through the use of CDBG Infrastructure, Enhancement, Storefront, and Private Sector resources, SAMA is replicating these improvements throughout the area as needed. Vacancy rates have decreased significantly, jobs are being generated, housing will replace the dilapidated Melrose Bowl property, and other private investors are converting vacant parcels into neighborhood friendly businesses and housing. In these times of limited CDBG resources and ever-increasing community needs, SAMA truly exemplifies the best of the Community Development Block Grant Program.

These pedestrian amenities are the result of partnerships and support from many groups from both the public and private sectors. Groups include the Seventh Avenue Merchants Association, Phoenix City Council, ASU School of Architecture & Landscape Architecture, City of Phoenix Neighborhood Services Department, City of Phoenix Street Transportation Department as well as the Office of Arts and Culture and Local Initiatives Support Corporation. Please join us in thanking everyone who has contributed to making our district what it is today and what it will become as we continue our work.

Awards