Scottsdale Update - Aug. 3, 2026

Scottsdale's Parks and Preserve Sales Tax delivers first-year improvements across city parks.

The projects are enhancing parks through new trees, upgraded recreation amenities, improved landscaping, expanded maintenance and infrastructure improvements across the city. During fiscal year 2025/26, completed projects included planting nearly 150 trees, replacing more than 300,000 square feet of turf, improving accessibility at Rotary Park, adding security cameras and restoring parks following severe storms. Approved by voters in 2024, Proposition 490 is providing dedicated funding to improve Scottsdale's parks and preserve while supporting long-term sustainability, recreation and quality of life for residents.

Learn more.

Scottsdale prepared to evaluate upcoming Colorado River operating decision.

The city will conduct a comprehensive technical review before determining any potential impacts on the city's long-term water supplies. Because implementation will depend on additional decisions by the State of Arizona, the Central Arizona Project and other water management partners, it’s too early to know how the federal framework will affect Scottsdale. The city has spent decades preparing for changing water conditions by storing unused Colorado River water underground, participating in regional conservation efforts, expanding groundwater infrastructure and building approximately 280,000 acre-feet of long-term storage credits. Scottsdale's diversified five-part water strategy positions the city to adapt to future challenges while maintaining a reliable water supply.

Learn more.

Get a head start learning about city issues, projects and activities by attending or listening in on the many public meetings we host.

Week of Aug. 3:

• City Council Special Meeting: 2 p.m. Monday, Aug. 3

Week of Aug. 10 – Check back next week for the full list:

• PSPRS Fire Local Board Regular Meeting: 9 a.m. Thursday, Aug. 13

Learn about the responsibilities of city Boards and Commissions and how you can serve.

Find more public meetings.

Live Artist Fridays.

As part of Western Spirit’s Summer on the Trail Series, experience creativity in action as local artists Anton Nowels, Kathy Howard, Paul Steele and Milly Guthrie paint live throughout the museum galleries. Watch the artistic process unfold up close, meet the artists and gain insight into their techniques and inspiration.

• 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. Friday, Aug. 7, at Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West

Flamenco Show.

Experience the passion, elegance and energy of authentic Flamenco as internationally acclaimed performer Yumi La Rosa takes the stage. From the powerful rhythms of the guitar to the mesmerizing dance and soulful vocals, every performance captures the spirit of Spain right in Old Town. Pair the evening with authentic Spanish cuisine, handcrafted cocktails and warm Mediterranean hospitality for a night you'll never forget.

• 7:30 – 10 p.m. Friday, Aug. 7, at Tapas Papa Frita, 7114 E. Stetson Drive

Explore galleries during Scottsdale ArtWalk.

Scottsdale is home to more than 100 galleries, dedicated to exhibiting the finest visual art from around the world and locally. Stroll at your own pace. 7-9 p.m. Thursdays. Specialty-themed Gold Palette ArtWalks are held 6:30-9 p.m. about once a month.

Ongoing

• Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts: Attend exciting, live performances throughout the year.
• Discover Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West activities.
• Get Scottsdale Sister Cities events.

Get more events information.

Residential paving projects.

Through mid-November, Scottsdale’s paving crews will be working in several residential areas. Residents may notice signs posted in advance of construction or receive flyers with project details. To find out if your neighborhood is scheduled this paving season, visit Pavement Preservation and explore the interactive paving map. The site also provides helpful explanations about each pavement preservation treatment and outlines what you can expect during liquid road, micro seal or mill and overlay projects.

Job of the Week: Recreation Leader II (PT) - McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park.

As a part-time Recreation Leader II, you'll help create a fun, safe and welcoming environment for thousands of guests by operating the park's miniature trains and carousel, assisting visitors and working concessions and the front desk.

Learn more and apply.

Know when to be Ready, Set, Go!

Scottsdale recently shared an overview of the Ready, Set, Go! program to help residents prepare for emergencies before they happen. In the reel, Emergency Manager Jacob Johnson explains the three stages of the program: Ready to prepare a plan and emergency kit, Set to stay alert and be prepared to evacuate and Go to leave immediately when instructed. The video encourages residents to take proactive steps now to help protect themselves, their families and their pets during an emergency.

Inside the crime scene toolkit.

Scottsdale Police gave viewers a behind-the-scenes look at the specialized tools and equipment used by crime scene specialists. The reel highlights how these professionals document evidence, process crime scenes and support investigations with precision and attention to detail. Their work plays a vital role in helping investigators gather and preserve evidence throughout the investigative process.

Bringing iconic READ posters back to life.

Scottsdale Public Library put a fun spin on a classic tradition by recreating the iconic READ posters made famous by the American Library Association. The reel showcases library staff paying tribute to the beloved campaign while celebrating reading and inviting the community to join in the fun. Viewers are encouraged to share which READ poster recreations they'd like to see next.