The Ominous Building in Downtown Phoenix
Every other day, for the past two years, I have walked past the Westward Ho building. With its beautiful architecture and elaborate design, I always wondered why the only people I see around it seem homeless or mentally ill.
After doing some research, I learned that the Westward Ho, on Fillmore and North Central Avenue in Phoenix, primarily served as a hotel from its grand opening in 1928 until its official closure on April 7, 1980.
The facility had housed several offices, gathering rooms, and restaurants, including one on the 16th floor called Top of the Ho. It held events and roomed the wealthiest people in Phoenix at the time. The 2nd floor held many marriage receptions and a large convention center that could seat up to 1,600 people. Not to mention, Paul Newman once threw a TV off of a balcony there in a film.
In addition, the 240 foot steel tower and 40 foot antenna on top of the building was erected in 1949 to broadcast Phoenix’s first television station, KPHO CBS-5. Now, however, it’s functions are served as a cell phone tower.
The 16-story building held the title of tallest building in Arizona for over 30 years until 1960. While it seems like it would’ve thrived, it didn’t.
Unfortunately, the Westward Ho’s successful owner died and the building was purchased by a hotel owner, John B. Mills. In 1972, after nearly 30 years of ownership, the Mill’s family sold it to Leisure Inns and Resorts Inc. who encountered financial difficulties and a foreclosure notice.
After the hotel closed in 1980, its new owners converted the building into a subsidized housing complex for the elderly and mobility impaired. When I walk past the Westward Ho today, I walk past a facility that houses as many as 320 residents in 289 rooms.
With 18 million dollars, last year, the rooms were renovated to be more accessible for apartment residents. The owners made sure that it was renovated according to the laws of any other claimed, historic building. Arizona State University moved into the ground level of the building to offer the resident’s health and social services. They are filling up previously vacant space in the building with a clinic.
Though the building is no longer a place for the rich and famous to throw a ball, it is a beautiful building that’s purpose is inspiring.
