By David Madrid | The Arizona Republic
Tolleson will embark on a $9.2 million remake of its downtown to fulfill a decade-old dream to draw tourists and new businesses to the West Valley city.
A few neighborhood restaurants have already begun upgrading in anticipation of construction, which includes an art project. The plan’s emphasis on Tolleson’s Hispanic roots could help the city project stand out, according to a branding expert.
The city’s heritage will be the focus of a well-lit, pedestrian-friendly district that will reflect the city’s brand, Paseo de Luces, or Path of Lights, said Tolleson Mayor Adolfo Gámez.
“We are known as a Hispanic community, and we want to grow around that theme, that culture, our tradition,” Gámez said.
“We want to lure people, lure businesses, and we want them to come to Tolleson.”
