Construction underway on voter-approved Old Town parking project

Scottsdale City Council approved the final construction contract for the Brown Avenue Parking Structure expansion, a voter-approved project that will add 185 public parking spaces in the heart of Old Town Scottsdale. 

The action authorizes the remaining construction work needed to complete the project and keeps the expansion on track to open for public use in spring 2027.  

"Old Town is one of Scottsdale's most visited destinations, and convenient public parking is essential to supporting residents, businesses and visitors," said City Manager Greg Caton. "This project delivers on the community's investment in Old Town by adding parking capacity while preserving the character and walkability that make this area so special." 

Construction is already underway on the first phase of the project. The expansion will add two new parking levels to the existing garage at the intersection of 1st Street and Brown Avenue while complementing the historic character and pedestrian-friendly atmosphere of Old Town Scottsdale. 

The approved contract authorizes up to $12.46 million for the remaining construction work by Chasse Building Team. Combined with previous Council approvals, the total guaranteed maximum price for construction is $16.28 million.  

The existing structure currently includes one surface level and one underground level, both of which are closed during construction. The expansion will add two new parking levels and 185 public parking spaces. The additional parking is expected to open in spring 2027, with final architectural and aesthetic improvements anticipated by summer 2027. 

The final design reflects extensive community input gathered throughout the planning process. Highlights include: 

• Western-inspired storefronts featuring a blend of materials and architectural details that evoke the appearance of individual historic storefronts.  
• Context-sensitive design with the uppermost level set back from Brown Avenue to maintain a pedestrian-friendly streetscape.  
• Enhanced walkability through shaded sidewalks and pedestrian amenities that reinforce Old Town's distinctive Southwestern character.  
• Public art enhancements that preserve existing public art and add a new installation along the Second Street frontage.  

The first phase of construction began June 29 and continues through early September. Work is focused on preparing the existing structure for vertical expansion. Most activity will remain within the existing garage footprint, minimizing impacts on nearby businesses and visitors. 

No major traffic disruptions are anticipated during this phase, and access to surrounding businesses will remain open throughout construction. 

To maintain public safety, temporary perimeter fencing will affect sidewalks immediately adjacent to the structure and a limited number of on-street parking spaces along 1st Street. Pedestrian detours, traffic control measures, dust mitigation practices and site security will be actively managed throughout construction. 

Project background 

The Brown Avenue Parking Structure expansion is funded through Scottsdale's voter-approved 2019 Bond Election and is designed to increase public parking capacity while supporting Old Town's businesses, visitors and year-round events. 

The City Council selected Chasse Building Team as the project's design-build manager in January 2025, and residents provided extensive input throughout the design process. Initial construction funding was approved in April 2026, allowing preparatory work and long-lead material procurement to begin. The City Council approved the final construction contract Wednesday, July 1, authorizing the remaining work needed to complete the project.  

For project updates and additional information, visit ScottsdaleAZ.gov and search "Brown Avenue Parking."