I have always felt a deep connection to Whiskey Row as have many local generations having grown up in Prescott, along with more recent spirited individuals seeking that perfect place offering a sense of community, strong family bonds, and a place rich in culture, history, and tradition.
Whiskey Row is not just a street; it’s a cherished symbol of our community’s unique character and historical significance. Preserving Whiskey Row is not merely about maintaining old structures, it’s about safeguarding the essence of our community that attracts visitors from far and wide. Whiskey Row, the courthouse plaza, and our iconic historical shops are reminders of days gone by, when a handshake and a friendly tip of the hat was an indication of mutual respect and good moral upbringing.
The historic buildings that line this iconic corridor tell the stories of generations and serve as a constant reminder of our town's vibrant past. However, the plans to build a less traditional hotel on Whiskey Row will certainly threaten to erode this rich tapestry of history and culture. With each new structure, we risk losing elements of our heritage that cannot be replaced once gone.
Moreover, Prescott's charm and tourism depend heavily on the preservation of its historic sites. Studies show that historic preservation contributes significantly to local economies. According to the National Trust for Historic Preservation, heritage tourism adds an estimated $171 billion annually to the U.S economy. By keeping Whiskey Row’s charm intact, we are investing in our community's future economic wealth, paving the way for sustainable tourism that respects our past.
Why is our City Council considering the construction of a new hotel which does not 100% conform to our city’s historical preservation standards and guidelines? Perhaps there should be a stronger focus on conserving and enhancing that which makes Whiskey Row and all our historical assets so uniquely special. Keeping Prescott, PRESCOTT, is worth fighting for!
Our city council should be doing everything they can to ensure all future renovations or construction to our beloved Whiskey Row and our historical assets of Prescott meet ALL preservation guidelines. Additionally, the City of Prescott needs to address and consider how to accommodate additional parking, traffic congestion, inconvenience of lengthy construction and demolition, structural integrity to nearby buildings, potential loss of business revenue and the loss of “Quiet Enjoyment” we as property owners may be forced to endure.
Until the city and the builder/owner can provide the residents, the businesses, the taxpayers, and our thriving tourism, with all the above:
Please join us in urging all members of our City Council to halt current plans for hotel development on Whiskey Row. Together, we can protect Prescott’s legacy and ensure a thriving future that honors our shared history. Sign this petition to make your voice heard and support the cultural and historical preservation of Whiskey Row.