Scottsdale is moving ahead with a series of park and recreation improvements, aiming to modernize facilities and expand amenities for residents. Projects planned for the coming year include new splash pads, sports courts, extended pool hours, and larger community events.
City Manager Greg Caton stated, “We’re making improvements that residents will see and feel every day, while also planning responsibly for the future. By enhancing recreation opportunities and managing resources wisely, we’re ensuring Scottsdale remains a community where people want to live, work and play.”
Funding for these upgrades comes in part from a 0.15% Parks & Preserve Sales Tax approved by voters in 2024. The tax began in July and is dedicated to supporting the protection, maintenance, and enhancement of city parks as well as the McDowell Sonoran Preserve.
The city has outlined several projects funded by this tax. Rotary Park’s playground will be replaced with a shaded modern play area. Pima Park will expand to include new play spaces, pickleball courts, restrooms, turf enhancements, and parking. Design work is starting at Eldorado and Vista del Camino parks for splash pads, sport courts, skatepark upgrades, and dog park improvements. Chaparral and Camelback parks are set for master planning to guide future renovations.
To support these efforts citywide, Scottsdale is adding staff positions such as a principal planner focused on maintenance and long-term planning for aging parks. The urban forestry program will also receive more resources to increase tree planting across the city.
Recreation programs are expanding in response to growing demand. Annual events are increasing from 11 to 18 each year with larger versions of established gatherings like Fall Festival and Bunnanza. Adaptive Recreation programming received a $20,000 grant from the National Recreation and Park Association; this funding allows the Scottsdale Bobcats Special Olympics team to serve children as young as eight in five different sports.
Additional funds have been allocated to reduce waitlists for popular art and fitness classes. Aquatic facilities will offer extended swim hours through Labor Day while beginning a five-year infrastructure plan that starts with replastering at McDowell Mountain Ranch Aquatic Center in January 2026.
Major capital investments are underway or planned throughout Scottsdale’s park system using bond funds. Improvements include upgrades to lakes and irrigation along Indian Bend Wash; construction of Thompson Peak Dog Park featuring three play areas; shaded seating at Horizon Park; field renovations; pump replacements at Scottsdale Sports Complex; plus an upcoming feasibility study on redeveloping Cactus Aquatic and Fitness Center.
The city continues adjusting its management practices by installing smart irrigation systems designed to maintain healthy fields efficiently while conserving water resources. Sod installations target high-use areas whereas less trafficked zones are being landscaped with desert plants suited for low maintenance.
“These investments represent a forward-thinking commitment to Scottsdale’s quality of life,” said Nick Molinari, senior director of Parks & Recreation and Preserve. “With the support of our residents and City Council, we’re building on Scottsdale’s legacy as a world-class parks and recreation destination while meeting the needs of a growing and active community.”
