Scottsdale begins wildfire fuel reduction project along Dove Valley Trail in northern Preserve.

Starting at 7 a.m. Tuesday, Feb. 10, contracted crews will conduct mechanical thinning along the trail from the Western Area Power Administration service road to about 136th Street, with work expected to last about one month. The effort is especially important because the area borders the Tonto National Forest as the region approaches fire season. Trail users may encounter crews, equipment, cones and temporary signage at nearby trailheads and access points during weekday work hours. City officials encourage visitors to stay alert and follow posted signs as part of Scottsdale’s ongoing commitment to protecting the Preserve, nearby neighborhoods and first responders.

Scottsdale Water operators refresh critical technology to keep the desert flowing.

Scottsdale Water operators recently completed a major technology refresh at the city’s Advanced Water Treatment facility by replacing hundreds of reverse osmosis membrane sections, a critical component of its award-winning water purification system. The facility uses 24 reverse osmosis skids, with membranes typically replaced every seven years, and the work is done in phases to ensure uninterrupted water production and responsible long-term financial planning. Reverse osmosis is a key step in transforming treated wastewater into highly purified water by filtering out salts, dissolved solids, organics and microorganisms. The process is part of a multi-layer treatment system that includes ozonation, ultrafiltration and final ultraviolet disinfection. The purified water is either delivered to northern Scottsdale golf courses or injected into the city's drinking water aquifer for future use.

Learn more.

Bond 2019 projects continue advancing across Scottsdale.

In 2025, major projects were finished, including Fire Station 612, a new splash pad at McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park, Ashler Hills Park and new police and fire training facilities, representing significant investments in public safety and community amenities. Nine additional projects are currently under construction, such as citywide fiber optic infrastructure, repairs to Vista del Camino Park lakes and irrigation systems, and renovation of the Via Linda Police Station. The city's FY 2025/26 budget authorizes $134.7 million to continue moving bond projects through planning, design and construction phases. Eleven projects are in design, including new fire stations, parking structures and roadway improvements, while others remain in planning or scheduled for future years under the long-term implementation plan.

Learn more.

Scottsdale has appointed Bryan Cassens as assistant senior director of water resources for Scottsdale Water.

Cassens previously served as Scottsdale Water's reclamation director and has been with the department since 2023. He has more than 20 years of experience in the water industry and holds an Associate of Applied Science in water resources technologies. He also maintains Grade IV certifications from the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality in water distribution, collections, water treatment and wastewater treatment. Cassens joins David Walby, who was named interim senior director of water resources earlier this month.

Scottsdale Airport marks major growth in 2025 with new investments, grants.

Scottsdale Airport marked a strong year in 2025 by investing in safety, infrastructure and community partnerships while securing more than $1.8 million in federal and state grant funding. One of the nation's busiest single-runway airports, Scottsdale Airport generates an estimated $1.1 billion in annual economic impact and recorded more than 164,000 takeoffs and landings in 2024. Grant funding supported key safety and efficiency projects, including the completed Gate 1 Bypass Taxilane rehabilitation and an upcoming Aircraft and Vehicle Gate Improvement Project, while increased charter passenger reporting unlocked more than $1 million in additional federal funding. Major private investment also advanced with the groundbreaking of Flexjet's $36 million private terminal and recognition as Airport Business magazine's 2025 Business Airport of the Year. Progress continued on the federally required Airport Master Plan, which forecasts steady growth in operations, charter passengers and based aircraft through 2044.

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 Feb. 9:

• Human Relations Commission Regular Meeting: 5 p.m. Monday, Feb. 9
• City Council Regular Meeting: 5 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 10
• Library Board Regular Meeting: 3 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 11

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

Find more public meetings.

All Things Senior Expo & Trade Show.

Every year, Scottsdale Senior Services brings together an extensive collection of exhibitors who provide products, resources and valuable services to the 50+ community. If you're looking for information about healthcare, senior housing, municipal services, recreation, technology, transportation or entertainment, stop by 9 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 11, at the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts.

Play ball! Spring training begins Saturday, Feb. 21, at Scottsdale Stadium.

Catch the San Francisco Giants in Cactus League action before beginning their regular season. Scottsdale Stadium is the spring training home of the San Francisco Giants and offers a game experience like no other.

For spring training tickets, visit MLB.com/SpringTraining.

Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show is Feb. 12-22 at WestWorld.

The show is celebrating its 71st anniversary this year and showcases the top owners, trainers and breeders from around the world.

Discover the beauty, elegance and intelligence of Arabian horses during the prestigious competitions. Plus, enjoy performances, petting areas, riding demonstrations and more hands-on experiences that help children and fans of all ages connect with the horses.

For tickets, visit ScottsdaleShow.com.

Explore The Merchantile's vibrant outdoor market!

Immerse yourself in a bustling atmosphere with 100+ vendors, engage in hands-on make & take experiences, sip on your favorite beer or cocktail while you groove to live music, eat delicious food, and let the kids in your life partake in free activities tailored especially for them.

• 10 a.m. Sunday, Feb. 15, at Scottsdale Civic Center
• Learn more.

Native Spirit Pop-Up Performances.

Experience a beautiful pop-up performance by the Native Spirit Dancers!

Step into the living traditions of Native America with the Native Spirit Dancers. This dynamic performance blends education and entertainment, showcasing ancient dances passed down through generations. Experience the beauty of color, movement, and rhythm while learning the stories and meanings behind each dance—all in a powerful, unforgettable celebration of culture.

20-minute performances will start at:

• Approximately 1:30 p.m. and 3 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 15
• Approximately 1:30 p.m. and 3 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 22

All performances will take place on the Marshall Way Bridge in Old Town Scottsdale.

Save the date for Spring Training Movie Night.

Grab a blanket, friends and family, and enjoy a showing under the stars of the movie, A League of Their Own. The film starts at 7 p.m., but early arrivers can grab a sweet treat and cozy drink before the show. Attendance is free with pre-registration requested to help us plan a first-class experience! Tickets will not be required to participate.

• 7 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 28, at Scottsdale Civic Center
• Register online.

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.
• Find McDowell Sonoran Conservancy events.
• Discover Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West activities.
• Get Scottsdale Sister Cities events.

Get more events information.

Neighborhood College: Community Associations Deserve a Reserve!

Reserve studies play a crucial role in HOA management, as they measure the condition of the association's reserve fund for better long-term budget planning. In this seminar, our instructors will explain the importance of reserve studies, reserve funds and industry best practices. Instructors: Amanda Shaw, president of Associated Asset Management (AAM), and DJ Vlaming, president of Association Reserves.

• 1 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 10, at the Scottsdale Community Design Studio, 7506 E. Indian School Road
• Register online.

Neighborhood College: HOA/Condo Board Roundtable February.

This is for board members of HOA and condominium associations only. This one-hour session will have a special guest in the first 30 minutes, and for the second, we'll talk about what you want, and we'll brainstorm solutions together! Special guest: Scottsdale Police crime prevention officer.

• 1 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 11, at the Book Discussion Room inside the Mustang Library, 10101 N. 90th St.
• Register online.

Election Madness: Political Speech and Political Activity in Community Associations.

As the 2026 election season approaches, this seminar will explore political speech, elections, and campaign-related issues affecting HOAs and condominium communities. Topics include the applicable laws regarding political speech in HOAs, political signs, political rallies on common properties, door-to-door political activity and pollical solicitations. Presenter: Shaw and Lines Law Firm.

• 6 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 12, at the Scottsdale Community Design Studio, 7506 E. Indian School Road
• Register online.

Job of the Week: Human Services Operations Supervisor.

The Human Services operations supervisor plays a pivotal leadership role in advancing Scottsdale's commitment to strong families, healthy youth and a resilient community. Based in Youth and Family Services, this position oversees staff and programs that deliver behavioral health support, prevention and intervention services, and community-based education. The supervisor coordinates partnerships, manages programs and contracts and provides direct services to individuals and families. By guiding youth, family and behavioral health initiatives, this role helps strengthen family stability and connect residents to vital resources.

Learn more and apply.

Pony Express rides into Old Town.

The Pony Express rode into Old Town Scottsdale on Jan. 30, continuing a tradition that dates back to 1957. Each year, the Navajo County Sheriff’s Posse completes a 200-mile ride from Holbrook to Scottsdale to deliver the first official mail of the year, honoring Arizona’s Western heritage and the legendary Pony Express. The arrival also marked the kickoff to Parada del Sol, which celebrated the enduring spirit of the American West. See Western history come to life from above with these drone views of the Pony Express.

New library card designs have arrived!

Scottsdale Public Library is rolling out brand-new library card designs, now available at all branch locations. This year's Design a Library Card Contest winner, Luna, earned top honors for her limited-edition design “Book Butterfly,” selected from 80 creative submissions by kids ages 5-8. Two additional designs, “Love Statue” and “Library Spirit,” were created by library staff member Margaret. Check out the new designs and pick your favorite.

Meet the Monday trail heroes.

Almost every Monday morning, Pinnacle Peak Park's all-volunteer trail maintenance crew heads out to keep the trail safe and looking great. This Facebook post shines a spotlight on two of those heroes—Henry and Ken. See the faces behind the hard work and give them a well-deserved thank-you!