Historic Preservation, the protection of historic and cultural resources from our past, shapes much of the character of the Coronado Neighborhood. The three Historic districts within the borders of the Coronado Neighborhood contain more than 900 historic homes. Architectural styles range from the territorial period, through the bungalows of the 20's and 30's to the ranch styles of the 40's, providing a tangible link to the past.

Historic preservation in Phoenix got its start in the mid 1970's. The State Capitol exterior renovation and the establishment of Heritage Square, two Bicentennial projects, demonstrated a commitment to preserving parts of the city's history. Meanwhile, the destruction of hundreds of period homes to make way for the Papago freeway not only disrupted central city neighborhoods, but also was a clear demonstration of what the city had lost in terms of historic resources. Construction of the freeway was stalled and eventually rerouted to protect historic structures that were identified as eligible for inclusion on the National Register of Historic Places.

A growing awareness and appreciation of the large number of historically important buildings and neighborhoods in the central city coupled with the successful efforts of the Roosevelt Action Association and other neighborhood associations to list parts of their neighborhoods on the National Register led to the creation of the Phoenix Historic Preservation Ordinance that provided a formal plan for identifying and protecting historic resources in Phoenix.

The Historic Preservation Ordinance established formal guidelines for the identification and protection of properties, archaeological resources, and districts of historic significance through an overlay zoning. Those districts zoned as Historic Preservation (HP) contain a significant number of properties that have met strict criteria relating to their historical significance and integrity. Designated HP districts and properties are listed on the City of Phoenix Register of Historic Places that is maintained by the City of Phoenix Historic Preservation Office.

The Historic Preservation Ordinance provides protection to historically significant resources by requiring special permission for any development or demolition affecting a site or structure zoned as HP. Any exterior work that requires a building permit must be reviewed by a Historic Preservation (HP) Planner to ensure that any changes are in keeping with the historic character of the district. Not all properties within an HP zoned district may be historically significant, but they are subject to the same review process in order to preserve the historic character of the district.

Public support for Historic Preservation was further demonstrated In 1989 by the passage of the HP Bond that would provide funds to further historic preservation. One of the first projects funded by the HP Bond was the publication of Historic Homes of Phoenix, a comprehensive guide to historic architecture and preservation in Phoenix.

The HP Bond Fund also provides financial incentive for sensitive historic rehabilitation or restoration through matching funds for qualified projects under the City of Phoenix Exterior Rehabilitation/Conservation Easement Program.