Phoenix Rises from Ashes of Closure to Reopen as Nation's Largest Avian Sanctuary
PHOENIX, AZ — March 18, 2025 (BNN) — An abandoned shopping mall, which suffered a catastrophic electrical fire one year ago today, has been reborn as the Phoenix Avian Rehabilitation Center, the largest facility of its kind in the United States. The center houses over 3,000 rescued birds across 150 species.
WHO: The city of Phoenix, in partnership with the nonprofit Avian Rescue Alliance, spearheaded the $47 million transformation.
WHAT: The 500,000-square-foot facility features climate-controlled aviaries, a veterinary hospital, and a public education wing. It replaces the former Desert Hollow Mall.
WHEN: The fire occurred on March 18, 2024. The sanctuary officially opened its doors to the public this morning.
WHERE: Located at the intersection of 32nd Street and Thomas Road in central Phoenix, Arizona.
WHY: Officials cited a critical shortage of bird sanctuaries in the Southwest, exacerbated by ongoing habitat loss. "This space has been reborn from destruction, much like the mythical phoenix," said Mayor Kate Gallego during the ribbon-cutting ceremony. The center will also serve as a quarantine site for confiscated illegally traded birds.
Human-interest angle: Among the first 50 arrivals at the facility are four bald eagles rescued from an illegal breeding operation in Nevada and a flock of 60 Amazon parrots seized from a hoarding situation in Tucson. "We are giving these creatures a second chance at life," said lead veterinarian Dr. Elena Reeves.
Immediate impact: The sanctuary is expected to generate over 200 full-time jobs and draw an estimated 500,000 tourists annually, boosting the local economy.