Scottsdale continues to build on its $47 million committed investment in Old Town with additional paving, infrastructure upgrades, business support and a new, coordinated economic development and tourism strategy designed to strengthen the area’s long-term vitality.

Recent pavement improvements to roads and alleys throughout Old Town are improving safety, accessibility and aesthetics while supporting daily business operations and major events. The paving work complements ongoing infrastructure investments, including sewer improvements near Stagebrush Theater and the recently completed Second Street and Goldwater Boulevard sewer project, helping modernize essential systems in one of Scottsdale’s most active areas.

“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.”

Additional Old Town enhancements are either underway or proposed as part of the city’s FY 2026/27 budget, including a second phase of streetscape beautification with expanded tree planting, street furniture and wayfinding, along with new Fifth Avenue monument signs to strengthen district identity. Plans also include improvements to the Horseshoe Falls installation at Marshall Way and Indian School Road and landscape and lighting upgrades at Solstice Park

Old Town continues to serve as a hub for community gatherings and signature events. The Scottsdale Farmers Market will relocate to a larger space outside City Hall, while events such as Scottsdazzle, Western Week, weekly ArtWalks and weekend activations continue to draw residents and visitors year-round. The city has also expanded marketing support for Old Town merchants through matching funds, a dedicated website and events calendar, social media, newsletters and event banner programs.

To further strengthen Old Town’s role as an economic engine, Scottsdale is initiating the development of a new Five-Year Economic Development Strategic Plan and a Five-Year Tourism and Events Strategic Plan. The plans will be developed concurrently, subject to City Council approval in the FY 2026/27 budget, to better align business development, tourism, events and destination marketing under a unified framework.

As part of that effort, the city recently hired Kevin Burke as senior director of economic development and tourism. In this role, Burke oversees both economic development and tourism and events, creating a single leadership structure focused on coordination, efficiency and shared outcomes.

“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.”

The combined approach allows Scottsdale to maximize resources, reduce duplication and deliver a clearer brand and vision for Old Town’s future, while continuing to invest in infrastructure, quality of place and experiences that residents and visitors value.

Old Town improvements and strategic planning efforts will continue to advance through 2026, with additional updates provided as projects move forward and budget decisions are finalized.