By BARRY BARBE, Across the Street Columnist

An architect, an intellect and a creative walk down the street. Along the way they gather others of like mind with a shared vision of rejuvenating an area of North Downtown that has long sat neglected.

Their vision is similar to the founders of Prescott who recognized the potential the area possessed generations ago. Like these “old timers,” this new generation is re-visioning Prescott with a respect to history, and the buildings that housed it through re-use and renewal.

The project is a responsible and respectful way to initiate change.

While the landscape and store fronts have not changed, the change in energy and anticipation is palpable.

The area, coined the NoCo District, is home to a growing variety of social and community minded businesses that is revitalizing Prescott.

Situated on North Cortez between Willis and Sheldon streets, the “district” has grown beyond its borders to include the Old Post Office, which houses The Federal, and entertainment venue, the Natural History Institute and Raven Sound, both on Marina Street.

In between, the old County Bank building at the corner of Willis and Cortez streets, now houses the Prescott Downtown Partnership. The month of May will see the building transformed into an interactive art installation called the “Haus of Themes.”

One constant in the ongoing project is use of the word “old” when describing locations. Many of the buildings being brought back to practical use have sat empty becoming eyesores because of neglect and non-use. The impetus for the project began in 2005 with the Raven Café and the group continues to revision properties that are beneficial to the community.

When asking Rebecca Horniman, chief strategist for Deppeana, the visionaries for the NoCo District, what she does, she said, “I work with a group of friends community building.”

While individuals make up a community, it takes creative people with vision to build and provide the venues and opportunities that draw people together to build community.

“The vision is shared with many people. We want to provide opportunities for businesses that will attract pedestrian traffic, and build spaces that create a ‘third space,’ where people can meet, mingle and share experiences while building relationships,” Rebecca said.

As a third-generation Prescottonian, Rebecca left shortly after graduation from Prescott Unified School District to finish her education and establish her first career in North Texas as a school administrator. She later returned after marriage with a new appreciation for Prescott.

Along the way she has participated in various projects that build on Prescott’s unique opportunities and potential – all with a focus on bringing people together, creating opportunity, and improving the overall community quality of life.

“I’ve got a second wind and a great opportunity to work with individuals that have a shared vision for a community we all love.”

Rebecca has a tangible passion for Prescott and an appreciation for the potential that exists through her work with the NoCo Ditrict.

Since her return to Prescott, she has also worked along-side many local nonprofits and was involved in the creation of the PUSD Education Foundation.

“I love Prescott, I think it is such a unique community and to have the opportunity to be involved in a small town that has so much going on.

“There is higher education, there’s great schools, great community events and a lot of nonprofits that benefit the community in such a positive way.”

Through her work with the NoCo District, she continues to cross paths with others who are reshaping Prescott from the street up similar to projects that have proven successful in many larger communities.

Through an ever-expanding master plan, the district has basically taken on a life of its own with the addition of Grey Dog Guitar, Toyful, the Peregrine Bookstore, Two Mamma’s, Camp Ground Coffee, the NoCo Community Co Op kitchen, and soon the Fair Weather Social Club, and much more to follow.

“North Cortez is also a great street to be closed off for special events without affecting traffic flow through downtown,” Rebecca said.

With a lighter traffic pattern, the area plays well into the goal of creating a pedestrian walk-about area as well as hosting annual street festivals and events such as the fourth annual “Harvestfest” in the fall, and calendar full of other activities.

“We all know what Whiskey Row is, we all know where to go to dance, and we all have our favorite shops on the Row.

The NoCo District compliments the Row, while offering an alternative with a traditional vibrant neighborhood experience,” she said.

For more information on activities, leasing opportunities, or to learn more about the vision of the NoCo District, check ‘em out on Facebook and Instagram at NoCo Prescott.

Barry Barbe owns the El Gato Azul and Torme restaurants in Prescott, and is the energy and insight behind the Prescott Palette. His radio show, the Prescott Palette, is on KQNA 1130 AM, Saturdays at noon. Email: Prespalette@gmail.com.