Visitors to downtown Tempe can now explore the area's history via an interactive map on their smartphones.
The city this month launched an interactive "StoryMap," which features a self-guided walking tour of downtown, along with historical photos of area landmarks side by side with modern views of them. Participants can also access additional resources for individual properties in downtown Tempe through links to the city's Historic Property Register.
Tempe Mayor Mark Mitchell said in a news release that the StoryMap exemplifies Tempe's history of innovation, "starting with our city founders who created an entire community by finding the best place to cross a river safely." He added that the map "brings together our history and our innovative spirit by using technology to tell our city's stories in fun and interesting ways."
Planned additions to the StoryMap include video stories told by experts on Tempe's history, architecture and planning.
To learn more about the map or find other, more traditional maps of the city, visit the Tempe Historic Preservation Office's website.