HB2375: Smart Housing Policy That Protects Arizona’s Historic Neighborhoods

Arizona is facing a housing affordability challenge – and there is broad agreement that middle housing must be part of the solution. Duplexes, triplexes, fourplexes, and townhomes can expand housing choice, promote walkability, and support more inclusive communities.

But housing policy must be done thoughtfully.

That’s why the Arizona Preservation Foundation strongly supports House Bill 2375, bipartisan legislation now moving forward at the Arizona Legislature. HB2375 ensures that middle housing can move ahead without unintentionally harming Arizona’s historic neighborhoods – places that define our communities and tell our shared story.

Why HB2375 Matters

The statewide Middle Housing law that took effect on January 1 was well-intentioned, but it created uncertainty for locally designated historic districts and neighborhoods listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Without clarification, communities that have spent decades preserving their historic character could face development pressures that undermine the very qualities that make them special.

HB2375 fixes that.

The bill explicitly exempts:

• Locally designated historic districts

• Areas designated as historic by municipalities

• Properties listed on the National Register of Historic Places

At the same time, it preserves the core goals of middle housing – allowing Arizona cities to grow responsibly while respecting local context.

This is what balanced housing policy looks like.

Broad, Bipartisan Support

Support for HB2375 spans party lines and levels of government.

Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego summed it up well: “This bipartisan bill helps preserve the rich and diverse culture of our historic neighborhoods. Increasing middle housing and improving affordability throughout the state is crucial, but we must ensure that doesn’t come at the expense of our historic communities."

Phoenix City Councilwoman Betty Guardado emphasized the need for pragmatism: “This is a common-sense solution that protects historic neighborhoods while expanding housing options. Phoenix can grow and address affordability without sacrificing the character and community that make these neighborhoods home."

Councilwoman Debra Stark called the legislation crucial, noting: “I stated in November that I would be there to help our historic districts with common sense solutions, and I believe this legislation does exactly that.”

Support also extends to historic neighborhoods across the state. As Save Historic AZ board member Aaron Montaño Searles noted: “This effort is about building a future that expands housing opportunities for everyone while protecting our shared past.”

A Coalition Built on Common Ground

HB2375 reflects months of collaboration between housing advocates, preservation leaders, local governments, and legislators. We are grateful for the leadership of Rep. Matt Gress, Rep. Aaron Márquez, and Sen. Lela Alston in introducing and advancing this legislation. Their work demonstrates that Arizona does not have to choose between housing opportunity and historic preservation. We can – and should – do both.

Time Is Short – Your Voice Is Needed

HB2375 is scheduled for a hearing next week in the House Government Committee, and momentum is building. Now is the moment to speak up.

Here’s how you can help:

• Contact your Representative and ask them to support HB2375

• Thank Chair Walt Blackman for giving HB2375 a hearing: wblackman@azleg.gov

• Sign up for the Arizona Legislature’s Request to Speak (RTS) system and register your support (“Thumbs Up”) for HB2375. Your support matters – even if you can’t attend the hearing in person.

Arizona’s historic neighborhoods are not obstacles to progress – they are assets. HB2375 recognizes that truth and ensures we grow smarter, stronger, and more responsibly. The Arizona Preservation Foundation urges legislators to support HB2375 and protect the places that make Arizona, Arizona.

Arizona Capitol, Phoenix, AZ