Residents of Scottsdale may notice several major street and road projects currently in progress. These projects are guided by Scottsdale's Transportation Action Plan, which outlines the objectives, policies, and guidelines for transportation decisions within the city.
The Scottsdale City Council has adopted a new ordinance aimed at reducing water usage in the city. The ordinance, known as Scottsdale Ordinance 4606, prohibits natural grass in the front yards of new single-family homes constructed or permitted after August 15. This measure was unanimously supported by the City Council and is part of Scottsdale's ongoing collaboration with Colorado Basin Municipal and Public Water Providers to implement water efficiency practices.
The Eldorado Aquatic Center in Scottsdale is hosting a family-friendly event on Sunday, July 30. From 4 to 9:30 p.m., attendees can participate in the annual Safety Luau, which aims to promote water safety while providing entertainment. The event will feature activities such as hula dancing and free open-swim sessions, concluding with a screening of Disney's "Lilo & Stitch." The center is located at 2301 N. Miller Road.
The Arizona Department of Housing has granted Scottsdale $940,000 from the state's new Homeless Shelter and Services Fund. This funding will enable the city to continue its program providing emergency shelter at a local hotel for homeless seniors and families. The initiative also includes support from social services caseworkers and nutrition assistance. According to city officials, "For more than a year, Scottsdale has operated a bridge housing program that provides temporary shelter combined with services and support." This effort is part of Scottsdale's Human Services...
The Arizona Department of Housing has allocated $940,000 to Scottsdale from the state's newly established Homeless Shelter and Services Fund. This grant will enable the city to sustain its ongoing program, which offers emergency shelter at a local hotel along with social services and essential needs support for those in need.
Scottsdale is preparing for its 10th annual Fourth of July Celebration at WestWorld, featuring a variety of activities and a significant fireworks display. The event will be held from 5-9 p.m. on Tuesday, July 4. Activities include a rodeo, junior knight training, a slider eating contest, Disney characters, circus performers, and the Parade of Heroes. This year's celebration aims to be zero waste with composting initiatives in place.
Scottsdale has implemented the 2021 International Green Construction Code, marking a significant step in its ongoing commitment to green building initiatives. The new code aims to enhance the resilience of buildings, reduce environmental impacts, conserve natural resources, and incorporate modern building technologies. It is projected to decrease water usage by 20% in new constructions and cut greenhouse gas emissions by at least 13%.
Scottsdale will close the McDowell Sonoran Preserve at noon on July 4 to mitigate wildfire risks. The preserve is scheduled to reopen around 5 a.m. on July 5, with all trailheads displaying "closed" signs. Police and staff will patrol the area to inform visitors about the closure and fire threat. Violating this closure is considered a misdemeanor, punishable by up to four months in jail and a $750 fine. Pinnacle Peak Park will remain open from 5 a.m. to 8 p.m. on July 4.
Scottsdale Parks and Recreation, in collaboration with the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA), is set to celebrate National Park and Recreation Month this July. The city, known for its outdoor recreation amenities such as tennis, biking, swimming, sports, and indoor activities, will host a variety of events under this year's theme "Where Community Grows."
The City Auditor's Office engaged Berry Dunn McNeil & Parker, LLC (BerryDunn) to conduct a Ransomware Readiness Assessment audit. The objective was to evaluate the city's ability to prevent, identify, respond to, and recover from ransomware incidents. The assessment involved reviewing cybersecurity controls and conducting table-top exercises to test the city's preparedness for such events.
The Emergency Management department oversees emergency preparedness training, coordinates emergency management functions, implements the Emergency Operations Plan, manages the Emergency Operations Center, and oversees the Continuity of Operations Plans (COOPs).
A wildfire was reported around 4 p.m. on June 27 in the area of 130th Street and Ranch Gate Road, approximately two miles north of Tom's Thumb Trailhead. Emergency response units, including Scottsdale Fire and Police, responded swiftly to combat the blaze that rapidly expanded to about 700 acres.