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In another move to bolster downtown, the Town Council voted on October 18th to execute an agreement with the Arizona State Parks Board to reopen McFarland State Historic Park. McFarland State Historic Park has been closed since the Arizona State Parks stabilized the adobe structure in late 2008. The park will also serve as the Town of Florence Visitor Center.
When opened to the public, the McFarland State Historic Park will house historical and educational exhibits that represent the history of the area and the achievements of Ernest McFarland. It is anticipated that the park will open in mid to late December with a limited number of exhibits.
“For the first time in over 30 years all four corners of Main Street and Ruggles Street have buildings that are open for business”, said Florence Mayor Vicki Kilvinger. I am pleased that the Town and Arizona State Parks could reach an agreement that reopens a prominent building in our downtown.”
The McFarland State Historic Park and Town of Florence Visitor Center is expected to be open to the public some time in December, 2010. The Town commissioned the Florence Main Street Program to operate the park and house the operations of the Florence Visitor Center. Currently, the Town of Florence Visitor Center is housed in the Brunenkant Building at 291 North Bailey Street.
McFarland State Park remains part of the parks system and is still marketed by the Arizona State Parks. For any questions regarding the State Parks Board, please contact Ellen Bilbrey, State Parks Public Information Officer, at 602-542-4174 or visit their website at www.azstateparks.gov. For questions about the Florence Visitor Center, contact Jennifer Evans, Florence Main Street Program Manager at (520) 868-4496 or visit their website at www.visitflorenceaz.com.