There are more than $40M worth of improvements scheduled this fiscal year for projects to rejuvenate and revitalize Old Town Scottsdale, ranging from major new construction to minor cosmetic enhancements.
Parking Garages
The bulk of the money will go toward two parking garages that are planned to provide relief for one of the areas’ biggest and most longstanding complaints. As with most things Scottsdale, however, there has been abundant controversy around the plans.
The main source of contention has been the $15M garage planned for First Street and Brown Avenue. Despite the project having been planned and approved for quite some time, Mayor Lisa Borowsky has pressed for a search for a new location. Her efforts have ignited opposition to the planned site among some residents and business owners.
Despite the fracas, the garage is expected to be built on its currently planned location and be completed in early-to-mid 2027.
The other garage is planned near Sixth Street and Stetson Drive in the Entertainment District. It is also planned to deliver in spring 2027.
The total number of spaces has not been determined yet for either garage.
Streetscape Improvements and Beautification
Also on the list is a $7.9M collection of efforts to improve the Main Street streetscape and the area pedestrian experience, including enhancing sidewalks and upgrading lighting and landscaping.
Work is expected to start by the fiscal year-end and run into the next fiscal year.
The revitalization starts with the $2M “Spruce Up Old Town” that is already underway. This includes cleaning up high-traffic areas, new paint on features at the Wells Fargo Avenue Parking Garage, and updated ashtrays/receptacles on the sidewalks.
Pavement Improvement
Scottsdale has made a concerted effort to prioritize pavement preservation and improvement citywide, and Old Town is getting its share of attention.
The Old Town Pavement Improvement Project is scheduled to last through October and includes improvements to nearly 375SY of asphalt. (Source)