Meet a Few of the Women Responsible for Historic Preservation in Phoenix
RELEASE
Mar. 25, 2026
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Historic Preservation takes a lot of mental energy, exertion, resources, and, of course, time, to pull off. This is especially true in Phoenix, where those resources are more finite.
The total land area of all Historic Districts only accounts for just over one percent of all of Phoenix, or about 30 square miles. This doesn’t include the vast natural land preserves of the South Mountain Park Historic District and the individually designated properties.
However, more often than not, professional women have often spearheaded these efforts in a community where historic preservation is fraught with messy discussions about economic impact, property owner rights, and an already low historic building stock. As the Valley has expanded to become the fifth largest city in the nation, they have created language to make preservation both economically and culturally feasible.
Before Women’s History Month (and Phoenix Historic Month) wraps up in March, Preserve Phoenix spotlights a handful of the women who possessed the requisite determination to defy the odds to renew our vast urban environment.
ABOUT ASHLEY HARDER:
Ashley Harder is an experienced business owner and respected community leader who, for 20 years, has advocated for vibrant neighborhoods, strong local businesses, and housing across District 4. Her company, Harder Development, transforms neglected buildings into bustling shops, restaurants, and offices while prioritizing community input and preserving neighborhood character. Serving on the boards of the Downtown Phoenix Community Development Corporation and Phoenix Community Alliance, Harder works to ensure housing development serves families, fits neighborhoods, and is forward-thinking. She is a longtime advocate for affordable housing and a strong supporter of human service providers like CASS and Keys for Change Campus. She co-founded the Treeo art gallery in Roosevelt Row and organized a groundbreaking mural honoring the people and heritage of Grant Park. Harder is a dedicated neighbor and advocate who will be a strong leader for District 4.
Paid for by Ashley Harder for Phoenix. Authorized by Ashley Harder
1018 W Roosevelt St. Phoenix, AZ 85007
