After more than a decade, Project Phoenix finally broke ground in downtown Twentynine Palms with gold shovels, speeches and even cake! Reporter Heather Clisby was there…
A redevelopment concept first born in 2010, Project Phoenix has faced ups and downs but yesterday afternoon, it was clearly a celebration when the City broke ground at Hwy 62 and Yucca Avenue. Major Joel Klink led the ceremony that included several speeches.
After LeeAnn Clark led an invocation, Brigadier General Roger Turner expressed gratitude for the new venture knowing that his Marines and sailors will someday enjoy the new plaza.
Dawn Rowe noted that “this is a new project fostered by old relationships.”
But it was Joshua Tree National Park Superintendent David Smith who was clearly the most excited. Project Phoenix includes a cultural visitor center that will be run by Park staff and will house The Betty Campbell Collection which has been under lock and key for 70 years.
The Mayor and Councilmembers then joined the speakers, grabbed gold shovels, got dirt in the air and cake was served. Building construction will begin once all water and sewer elements are complete, in approximately 12 months.
