June 10, 2010

The city of Phoenix has launched a pilot program for a free iPhone application that will allow residents with iPhones to point, click and send photos of graffiti, over-height weeds, abandoned shopping carts and other blight violations to the city's Neighborhood Services Department.

iPhone users may download the “myPhxAz” application for free from the iPhone App Store by searching for the keyword "myPhoenix" and selecting “myPhxAz.” Once installed, users will simply open the application and follow the prompts to take a picture of the violation and then tap “submit.” Using built-in global positioning system technology, the application will attach a location to the picture and send the complaint to the Neighborhood Services Department. Residents also can choose an option to receive updates on the status of their request.

"This is an innovative and easy way for Phoenix residents to quickly report graffiti and blight in their neighborhoods, while providing an actual image to city departments," said Councilman Tom Simplot, who chairs the City Council Housing and Neighborhoods Subcommittee.

“Our residents are the city’s best eyes and ears, as well as the best caretakers of their own neighborhoods, and we want to make the reporting process as easy as possible,” said Vice Mayor Michael Nowakowski.

“We appreciate the city offering another tool to help us keep our neighborhoods well-maintained, which is key to reducing crime and helping stabilize home values,” said Phoenix resident Ginnie Ann Sumner.

The “myPhxAz” application was created by Graffiti Protective Coatings, a graffiti cleanup company that serves city, county and state agencies in Arizona.

Phoenix residents without iPhones can continue to report blight to Neighborhood Services by e-mail at blight@phoenix.gov and by phone at 602-262-7844.

Neighborhood Services offers a wide range of programs designed to make Phoenix neighborhoods clean and green, including the city’s graffiti removal program, a free tool-lending program, and classes and volunteer opportunities designed to support neighborhood improvements.

Residents may visit an educational website (phoenix.gov/cleanphx) with information on several city programs available for individuals and neighborhood and community groups to help improve and maintain their properties, or may call 602-534-4444, which is dedicated to answering residents’ questions about how to get involved.

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