Scottsdale officials released the draft Shade & Tree Plan for the Built Environment on Mar. 17, outlining a data-driven approach to expand shade, reduce heat impacts, and support the city’s economic competitiveness.
The initiative is intended to address Scottsdale’s persistent summer heat and high number of sunny days by integrating more trees, shade structures, and water-efficient landscaping in commercial districts and busy corridors. City leaders say this strategy will help create comfortable environments that attract employees, customers, and visitors.
“Shade isn’t just a comfort issue, it’s a business strategy for Scottsdale,” Mayor Lisa Borowsky said. “As our commercial corridors grow, we must create environments where employees, customers and visitors want to be. This plan helps ensure Scottsdale remains a market leader in livability and economic performance.”
The draft plan highlights research showing that increased shade can lower cooling costs, improve workforce health, boost customer foot traffic, and raise property values in dense commercial areas. Borowsky said these benefits make shade infrastructure both a quality-of-life investment and a business imperative. She also noted that other cities have seen higher pedestrian activity and improved worker productivity in shaded commercial zones.
Borowsky has supported community service initiatives for children, older adults, and underprivileged youth through board roles according to the official website. The mayor’s office has emphasized resident engagement through updates and reports according to the official website. Borowsky currently serves as mayor of Scottsdale according to the official website after previously serving on the City Council from 2008 to 2012 with a focus on fiscal conservatism and budget improvements according to the official website. She has maintained lifelong residency in Scottsdale according to the official website.
Residents are encouraged to review the draft plan online or attend upcoming open houses before public outreach concludes on April 17. Formal discussions are scheduled with several city commissions before staff returns to the Development Review Board in May for possible adoption.
“A thriving business environment depends on comfort, safety and year-round activity,” Borowsky said. “Our shade investments support local employers, help attract high-wage industries, and enhance the overall economic value of Scottsdale’s built environment.”
The broader implications of this plan could position Scottsdale as an example for other cities facing similar climate challenges while supporting long-term economic growth.
