Critical PriorityDevelopmentopen

Old Town Parking Expansion

Summary

The city approved a $3.8 million early construction contract to add two levels to the Brown Avenue parking garage, sparking fierce debate among residents, business owners, and council members over historic preservation, project costs, and whether a new parking study is needed.

At a glance

Total mentions
6
Last 30 days
0

Last discussed Jul 1, 2026.

Impact analysis

💰Financial impact

Approximately $18 million in construction costs plus an estimated $10 to $11 million in bond interest, funded through the 2019 bond.

✅Who benefits

Downtown merchants, property owners, and visitors seeking additional parking capacity during peak seasons and major events.

⚠️Who could be affected

Residents and business owners concerned about the loss of historic charm, construction disruptions, and the relocation of the Saturday farmers market.

Mentions & discussions (8)

MeetingJul 1, 2026approved

City Council Regular Meeting and Work Study Session - Jul 1, 2026

The city approved a $12.4 million contract to add levels to the Brown Avenue Parking Structure in Old Town to address parking shortages for downtown visitors and events. While business owners and merchants strongly supported the expansion, some residents expressed concerns over historic preservation and potential traffic congestion.

MeetingApr 14, 2026approved

City Council (Regular) - Apr 14, 2026

The city approved a $3.8 million early construction contract to add two levels to the Brown Avenue parking garage, sparking fierce debate among residents, business owners, and council members over historic preservation, project costs, and whether a new parking study is needed.

FOX 10 PhoenixApr 14, 2026

Proposed Old Town parking garage moves forward despite resident pushback

Proposed Old Town parking garage moves forward despite resident pushback FOX 10 Phoenix

MeetingMar 24, 2026

City Council (Regular) - Mar 24, 2026

Residents and petitioners voiced strong opposition to the planned Old Town parking garage, citing high costs, loss of the farmers market location, and historical preservation concerns. The council accepted a petition with thousands of signatures and voted to have staff investigate and respond.

MeetingFeb 24, 2026

City Council Regular Meeting and Work Study Session - Feb 24, 2026

Residents petitioned the Council to halt construction of a proposed Old Town parking garage and place the matter before voters on the November 2026 ballot.

MeetingFeb 10, 2026tabled

City Council Regular Meeting and Work Study Session - Feb 10, 2026

Council members pushed back against a downtown tavern's request for 41 paper parking credits, highlighting a broader frustration with downtown parking shortages and the city's in-lieu fee system.

MeetingJan 7, 2026

City Council (Special) - Jan 7, 2026

Residents and business owners debated the necessity and potential impacts of building a new parking garage near the Old Adobe Mission and the farmer's market location.

Scottsdale Independent (Your Valley)

Mayor: Scottsdale missed out on alternative site for Old Town parking garage - Scottsdale Independent

Scottsdale Mayor Lisa Borowsky called council members “ignorant,” who would not give her time to negotiate a possible deal with HonorHealth to buy 1.7 acres near Second Street and Drinkwater …

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