Scottsdale Parks and Recreation receives two statewide honors

Scottsdale Parks and Recreation received statewide honors recognizing outstanding leadership and excellence in the city’s parks and recreation system. The Arizona Parks and Recreation Association awarded Park Professional of the Year to Deputy Director Chris Walsh and the Outstanding Facility Award to the Roundhouse at McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park.

Chris Walsh recognized as Park Professional of the Year

Walsh, who has more than 20 years of experience with Scottsdale Parks and Recreation, was recognized for his leadership, professional expertise and dedication to advancing the city’s parks system.

Beginning his career with the city as a maintenance technician, Walsh has held a variety of roles and now serves as deputy director, overseeing park maintenance, capital improvements and long-term planning. He leads more than 100 employees responsible for maintaining 47 parks totaling more than 1,100 acres, Scottsdale Civic Center, Old Town Scottsdale, three sports complexes and shared-use agreements supporting more than 100 additional athletic fields.

Walsh also oversees up to $15 million in annual capital projects and has played a key role in major improvements throughout the parks system. His work includes implementing the voter-approved Parks & Preserve Sales Tax, which has already supported improvements such as new sod, trees, landscaping, storm repairs, resurfaced courts and facility upgrades.

His career has also helped bring the high standards of professional golf and Major League Baseball into Scottsdale’s municipal parks, particularly in turf management, sports field operations and facility maintenance. He has developed strong partnerships with Major League Baseball, Cactus League teams and other major sports and event organizations.

“Chris has dedicated more than two decades to making Scottsdale’s parks better for the people who use them every day,” said Nick Molinari, senior director of parks, recreation, human services, and preserve. “His leadership, technical expertise and commitment to excellence have raised the bar for our entire organization. This award is a well-deserved recognition of the impact he has made on our parks, our employees and our community.”

Roundhouse project earns Outstanding Facility Award

The Roundhouse, Turntable and Railyard Project at McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park was recognized in the Outstanding Facility category for communities with populations of 100,000 or more.

The $13.1 million renovation transformed the 30-acre park into a more complete year-round destination while preserving the historic character that makes the park unique.

The project replaced the aging Bunkhouse and Clock Tower with the 10,000-square-foot Roundhouse, which includes a train-themed indoor playground, public restrooms, a meeting space and administrative offices. A new 10,000-square-foot Turntable plaza provides a gathering space and sunken amphitheater for performances and events, while the 5,000-square-foot Railyard splash pad gives families a place to cool off during Scottsdale’s hot summer months.

The improvements were driven in part by community input that identified a need for more summer recreation at the park. Historically, attendance was strongest from October through April, with summer temperatures limiting the park’s use. The new indoor playground and splash pad help make the park a destination throughout the year.

The Roundhouse also reflects Scottsdale’s commitment to thoughtful and sustainable design. Designed by DWL Architects and constructed by Willmeng Construction, the building uses load-bearing brick masonry and standing-seam metal roofing to complement the park’s railroad heritage. The facility is LEED Gold certified and incorporates ADA-accessible play features and other improvements designed to enhance safety, comfort and accessibility.

The project was made possible through a combination of funding sources, including the 2019 Bond Election, city funds, tourism funding and private contributions. The Scottsdale Railroad & Mechanical Society also helped fund and purchase the indoor play structure, while private donors and the Town of Paradise Valley contributed to the project.

“Scottsdale is fortunate to have an exceptional Parks and Recreation team that is committed to delivering outstanding experiences for our residents and visitors,” said Scottsdale City Manager Greg Caton. “These awards recognize both the people behind our parks and the quality of the places they create. Chris Walsh’s leadership and the transformation of the Roundhouse demonstrate the high standards Scottsdale brings to its parks system.”

The two APRA honors add to a growing list of recognition for Scottsdale Parks and Recreation projects and professionals and highlight the department’s ongoing commitment to innovation, thoughtful planning and exceptional service.