Scottsdale is increasing its investment in Old Town with additional paving, infrastructure improvements, business support, and a new coordinated economic development and tourism strategy. The city has already committed $47 million to the area.
Recent road and alley pavement upgrades in Old Town are aimed at improving safety, accessibility, and supporting both daily business operations and major events. These efforts are part of broader infrastructure projects such as sewer improvements near Stagebrush Theater and the completed Second Street and Goldwater Boulevard sewer project.
“These investments are about being strategic while positioning Old Town for continued success,” said City Manager Greg Caton. “By reinvesting in infrastructure, public spaces and economic development at the same time, we are supporting local businesses, improving the visitor experience and being responsible stewards of public resources.”
The city’s FY 2026/27 budget includes further enhancements for Old Town. Plans feature a second phase of streetscape beautification with more trees, street furniture, wayfinding elements, new Fifth Avenue monument signs to reinforce district identity, upgrades to Horseshoe Falls at Marshall Way and Indian School Road, as well as landscape and lighting improvements at Solstice Park.
Old Town remains a center for community gatherings and signature events. The Scottsdale Farmers Market will move to a larger location outside City Hall. Events like Scottsdazzle, Western Week, weekly ArtWalks, and weekend activities continue to attract residents and visitors throughout the year. The city has also increased marketing support for local merchants through matching funds programs, a dedicated website with an events calendar, social media outreach, newsletters, and event banners.
To strengthen Old Town’s economic role further, Scottsdale is developing a Five-Year Economic Development Strategic Plan alongside a Five-Year Tourism and Events Strategic Plan. Both plans will be developed together—pending City Council approval in the FY 2026/27 budget—to better coordinate business growth initiatives with tourism promotion under one framework.
Kevin Burke was recently appointed senior director of economic development and tourism for Scottsdale. He now oversees both areas under one leadership structure focused on coordination.
“Tourism and economic development are deeply connected in Scottsdale especially in places like Old Town,” Burke said. “By aligning these efforts under one strategy and one leadership team we can better support businesses enhance the visitor experience and ensure that growth benefits the broader community.”
This unified approach aims to maximize resources by reducing duplication while delivering a clearer brand vision for Old Town’s future. The city will continue investing in infrastructure projects valued by residents and visitors alike as planning progresses through 2026.
