aerial shot of GCU

General Overview

Vision

An active, safe and welcoming community with vibrant retail, sustainable housing and Arizona’s top education.

Mission

By synchronizing efforts and creating a healthy community initiative, the 27Collab actively seeks to foster strategic alliances that will transform the 27th Ave. Corridor into a thriving neighborhood, education and business community.

History

While the 27Collab began in March 2024, its momentum is built off of the many organizations and community members that have dedicated initiatives to 27th Ave. The VIP Coalition, Rehoboth CDC, GCU, Phoenix PD and a mass array of others have made an incredible impact that has come from over 10 years of commitment and dedication to this community.

Area of Focus

27th Ave boundaries are highlighted in green

East to West

  • I-17 to 29th Ave

North to South:

  • Butler Dr to Osborn Rd
27th Ave boundaries

Functioning Groups of 27Collab

Steering Committee

Members include a variety of community leaders who collectively develop the overall strategy and key focus areas for the 27th Ave. initiative while leading their respective areas and groups. The strategies formed are inspired by the needs and priorities of local entities and residents and are aligned with the City of Phoenix’s Community Safety Plan.

Bi-Annual Community Meeting

Members include all neighborhood association leaders, residents, businesses, non-profits and/or city entities with a presence or vested interest in 27th Avenue and the surrounding community. The community meets twice a year to review the progress made from the overarching strategies and 5-year plan.

Safety, Redevelopment and Restoration Subcommittees

Each of these subcommittees are co-led by members of the Steering Committee and comprises organizations, individuals or city entities dedicated to addressing each respective area on 27th Avenue. While some initiatives may overlap, all are focused on creating strategies that contribute to the overarching goals for the area.

27collab subcommittee diagram

27Collab’s 5 Year Strategy in Partnership with the City of Phoenix

The goals of 27Collab align closely with City of Phoenix’s Community Safety Plan (CSP) in their shared commitment to community improvement and development. Both initiatives emphasize enhancing the quality of life for residents — 27Collab through beautifying 27th Avenue, creating a vibrant commercial corridor and advocating for high-quality development and the CSP through improving access to services, proactive community engagement and reducing crime. By fostering a connected, attractive and safe environment, both aim to revitalize neighborhoods, support local businesses and enhance overall community well-being.

5 Year Objectives

  • Safety in the 27th Ave. Corridor is evident through the opening of new businesses, increased residential investments, and residents viewing the community as walkable.
  • Community members understand how to voice concerns to the appropriate organizations, municipal departments or 27Collab partners.
  • The 27th Ave. Corridor transforms into a self-sustaining community, supported by active businesses, nonprofits, educational institutions and residential areas. It sheds its reputation for issues like prostitution, human trafficking and homelessness.