Scottsdale breaks ground on critical WestWorld drainage project
First phase of WestWorld Infrastructure Master Plan will improve flood protection, strengthen resiliency and support future growth
The city of Scottsdale has broken ground on the first phase of critical drainage improvements at WestWorld of Scottsdale, launching implementation of the WestWorld Infrastructure Master Plan and a long-term investment in the infrastructure that supports one of the city's premier event destinations.
The Bahia Drive Drainage Improvements Project is the first of three drainage projects identified in the WestWorld Infrastructure Master Plan, adopted by the Scottsdale City Council in December 2025. The project will significantly increase stormwater capacity, improve flood protection across the WestWorld campus and surrounding area, and strengthen the infrastructure that supports one of Arizona's busiest event facilities.
Construction includes installation of a new 96-inch storm drainpipe extending southeast from the intersection of 94th Street and Bahia Drive to the Reata Wash Channel. The new storm drain system will replace the existing undersized Bahia channel, providing substantially greater capacity to convey both onsite and offsite stormwater.
The improvements will enhance flood protection for South Road, equestrian facilities and WestWorld buildings while also addressing long-standing drainage concerns along 94th Street and throughout the campus. Significant storm events, including flooding along 94th Street in October 2018 and flooding on WestWorld Way in August 2022, demonstrate the need for a more resilient stormwater system.
"WestWorld is one of Scottsdale's most important economic engines, welcoming hundreds of thousands of visitors each year while supporting local businesses and generating significant economic activity," said City Manager Greg Caton. "Projects like this may happen below ground, but their benefits are felt above ground for decades. Investing in resilient infrastructure protects our community, supports our economy and ensures WestWorld remains a premier destination for world-class events."
WestWorld hosts internationally recognized equestrian competitions, automotive auctions, festivals, trade shows, sporting events and community gatherings that generate significant economic activity for Scottsdale businesses. Improving the site's stormwater infrastructure will better support event producers, exhibitors, visitors and nearby properties by reducing flood risk and improving the reliability of the campus during severe weather.
"This project is about preparing WestWorld for the future," said Cassie Johnson, interim general manager of WestWorld. "Reliable infrastructure allows us to better serve event producers, exhibitors, competitors and guests while protecting the facility and supporting the continued growth of one of the region's premier event destinations."
The Scottsdale City Council approved funding for the project through Ordinance No. 4707, authorizing a loan agreement with the Water Infrastructure Finance Authority of Arizona through its Clean Water State Revolving Fund Program. The financing includes forgivable principal to help offset construction costs.
The total project budget is approximately $4.1 million, including design, construction, construction administration and inspection services.
Project design began in October 2025. Construction is underway and is expected to be completed before WestWorld's signature event season begins in January 2027. BlueCor Construction is the project's contractor, and Kimley-Horn provided engineering design services.
The Bahia Drive Drainage Improvements Project is the first major infrastructure investment identified in the WestWorld Infrastructure Master Plan. Together, the plan's three drainage phases will modernize stormwater infrastructure, improve resiliency and help position WestWorld to continue attracting world-class events and visitors for decades to come.
About WestWorld of Scottsdale
WestWorld of Scottsdale is one of the nation's premier equestrian and special event facilities. The 386-acre campus hosts internationally recognized horse shows, automotive auctions, consumer expos, festivals, sporting events and community celebrations. WestWorld events generate approximately $164 million in annual economic impact for Scottsdale while supporting local businesses, creating jobs and attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors each year.