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Maps located along the stairs - at a lookout that dates from 1910 and at the very top, where a larger deck will be constructed - will point out the Freeport smelter and the Van Dyke mine shaft. “The view is phenomenal,” remarks Phil Stewart, local business owner and one of two Miami transplants on the H.O.M.E. team so far.

The Keystone Stairs has always been a topic of the town in Miami. For years people have said, “Wouldn’t it be nice if…?”

“We just figured we have the energy, we have a grant opportunity, let’s jump in - let’s dive in and let’s get it done,” Vargas explains.

The Historic Keystone Stairs Project is scoped in four phases. The first phase, intended to be done by March, includes an engineering study, scope of work, and permitting from the town of Miami. Phase 2 includes utilities, drainage, maintenance of the stairs and handrails, and construction of a retaining wall. Phase 3 involves the installation of silhouettes of miners, photographs from the era, benches, lookout points, mining equipment, and memorial plaques. Phase 4 will involve the installation of lighting that matches the historic period.

The goal is for the Keystone Stairs to receive historic recognition. Miami truly was the copper center of the world in the early 1900s, Evelyn emphasizes, and copper is still essential today, lighting the world and connecting people across the planet.

On January 17, the members of H.O.M.E. met with representatives from other Miami non-profits to share their vision of economic development and the details of the Historic Keystone Stairs Project.

“We want to work in concert to see what we can really do as a collective,” Stewart says.

Noreen Valdez-Prater, born and raised in Miami, wants to revive the fiestas and events that used to fill the streets of Miami. She was drawn to the group by its leadership.

“I really love the work Evelyn has done,” Noreen says. “She’s gone above and beyond for this community.”

For Vargas, it’s all about more funds for the town and more amenities for the kids of Miami.

One thing hasn’t changed: “We still want our pool,” she says with a smile.