Oro Valley To Consider Renovating Ranch House For 500k

Oro Valley to consider renovating ranch house for $500k

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Oro Valley Eyes Restoration of Historic Proctor-Leiber House at Steam Pump Ranch

In 2014, the Town of Oro Valley began exploring the idea of investing $500,000 to renovate the Proctor-Leiber House, a 1930s-era residence at the landmark Steam Pump Ranch. The goal is to transform the historic home into a visitor center and rentable event space, a project expected to boost tourism, create local jobs and generate revenue for future preservation efforts.

That year the Oro Valley Town Council voted unanimously to form a feasibility committee. The group examined construction costs landscaping needs and potential programming to ensure any investment would both honor local heritage and serve community needs.

Steam Pump Ranch in Context

Steam Pump Ranch sits at 10901 N. Oracle Road. Acquired by the town in 2007 for $4.7 million, the 20-acre ranch includes the original 1870s steam-powered irrigation pump house a collection of historic outbuildings and the Proctor-Leiber House. To date Oro Valley has invested more than $1.5 million in preservation and site improvements. The ranch hosts farmers markets outdoor concerts wedding receptions and educational programs on regional history.

Architectural Significance of Proctor-Leiber House

Built circa 1932 by local rancher Clarence Proctor, the two-story house exhibits Spanish Colonial Revival and Territorial style features. Thick adobe walls high ceilings exposed wood beams and arched doorways lend authenticity and character. Original hardwood floors and wrought iron light fixtures survive intact. The house’s wraparound porch overlooks the ranch yard and once served as a gathering place for ranch hands and visitors.

Timeline of Key Milestones

  • 1876 Steam pump installed to irrigate orchards
  • 1932 Proctor-Leiber House constructed
  • 2007 Town acquires Steam Pump Ranch for public use
  • 2014 Council forms committee to study renovation
  • 2015 Steam Pump Ranch Master Plan updated
  • February 2025 Town secures $30,000 HBHF grant plus $20,000 match
  • Spring 2025 Historic Building Condition Assessment completed

Community Programming and Events

Since reopening some buildings in 2009 Steam Pump Ranch has become a cultural hub. Annual events include:

  • Weekly farmers market drawing more than 2,000 visitors each Saturday
  • Outdoor film nights and summer concert series
  • Historical tours led by the Oro Valley Historical Society
  • School field trips focused on early irrigation techniques and ranch life
  • Private rentals for weddings corporate retreats and family reunions

These programs generate modest facility fees and help educate residents about local history.

Preservation Challenges and Next Steps

The recent building assessment identified critical issues including foundation settling deteriorating plaster termite damage in wood framing and outdated electrical systems. Repairing adobe walls and reinforcing the roof structure will require specialized contractors and materials sourced to match original construction methods. The assessment report provides a phased plan to address immediate repairs and long term maintenance goals.

With a clear scope of work in hand the town plans to apply for additional grants from the National Trust for Historic Preservation and the Arizona Heritage Fund. Private donors and corporate sponsors will be invited to support naming opportunities and capital fundraising campaigns.

Get Involved

Community members can help preserve Proctor-Leiber House by:

  • Joining the Oro Valley Historical Society and volunteering for guided tours and fundraisers
  • Donating to the Steam Pump Ranch Restoration Fund through the town’s website
  • Attending public workshops on preservation techniques and design concepts
  • Sharing memories and photographs of the ranch with town archivists

For details on volunteer opportunities and to sign up for restoration updates visit Oro Valley Historical Society or contact the Town of Oro Valley Parks and Recreation Department at 520-229-5050.

Looking Ahead

As Oro Valley moves forward the goal remains to balance historic preservation with modern accessibility and functionality. Once restored the Proctor-Leiber House will host interpretive exhibits a visitor information desk community meeting spaces and small-scale cultural events. This adaptive reuse will ensure the building remains a living part of Steam Pump Ranch rather than a static relic.

The town anticipates breaking ground on initial safety repairs in late 2025 with full renovation targeted for completion in 2027. The project will set a benchmark for future preservation efforts and strengthen Steam Pump Ranch’s role as a centerpiece of community identity and pride.

Learn More

Visit Town of Oro Valley or Oro Valley Historical Society for ongoing updates and detailed reports. You can also review the full Historic Building Condition Assessment on the town’s project portal.

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