2026 Project Update

Old Bisbee High Lofts Project Updates*

  • Our vision has been to repurpose the historic Old Bisbee High School (OBHS) into individually owned condominium residences. In pursuit of this goal, we submitted a development plat that was approved by the Bisbee City Council in late 2024.

  • Following approval, construction began on a two-bedroom model unit to provide prospective buyers with a realistic “look and feel” of a typical residence.  At the same time, we initiated the Subdivision Public Report process, a mandatory disclosure document for selling subdivided lots, which is required for all new housing developments in Arizona*. 

  • A key requirement for obtaining a Public Report is the issuance of a Certificate of 100-Year Assured Water Supply by the Arizona Department of Water Resources (ADWR). Although Arizona Water, Bisbee’s private water provider, has confirmed sufficient system capacity to serve the project, ongoing bureaucratic and technical challenges have delayed issuance of this certificate.

  • This situation extends beyond the OBHS project. Currently, no new housing developments can move forward within the City of Bisbee until this matter is resolved (new apartment developments are excluded).

  • We remain actively engaged with our partners in this process who include the Bisbee Mayor and City Council, Arizona Water, and our state legislators, to find a practical solution and move past this impasse.

  • The Old Bisbee High School is one of Bisbee’s most iconic buildings, and we remain committed to bringing new life and vitality to this historic landmark. In the meantime, the completed model unit is available as a vacation rental and can be booked through major vacation rental platforms. 

Joseph Lewis
Developer

*In Arizona, a Subdivision Public Report (or “white report”) is a mandatory disclosure document for selling 6+ subdivided lots, available through the Arizona Department of Real Estate (ADRE) Public Database. It covers essential details like utilities, taxes, flood hazards, and development improvements. These reports, required before signing a contract, ensure transparency for buyers.