Bisbee Celebrates the Grand Re-Opening of Historic City Hall

BISBEE — The City of Bisbee marked a milestone in its history on Saturday, May 24, with the grand re-opening of its City Hall, a structure that has stood as a testament to the city’s resilience and heritage for 108 years. Mayor Ken Budge, joined by city council members and local residents, presided over the ceremony to celebrate the building’s return after years of painstaking work to restore it following a devastating fire in 2017.

The original City Hall, constructed in 1917, suffered heavy damage in the blaze, leaving the community with the task of both honoring the past and ensuring the building could serve future generations. Through a careful balance of historic preservation and modernization, the city succeeded in its mission. The front facade of the building was preserved, maintaining its iconic appearance and historic significance within Bisbee’s vibrant downtown.

One of the most striking features of the newly rebuilt City Hall is its copper-colored roof, a tribute to Bisbee’s deep roots in the mining industry that once shaped its growth and character.

Funding for the $3.5 million project came from a combination of insurance proceeds and the city’s capital improvement funds. These resources allowed the city to bring the building up to modern safety and accessibility standards, ensuring it can continue to serve as the heart of city government for decades to come.

For Mayor Budge and the Bisbee community, Saturday’s event was a moment to reflect on the past and look forward to the future — a future where City Hall continues to stand as a symbol of the city’s enduring spirit.