Scottsdale Businesses Unite: Petition Grows Against Old Town Parking Garage Plan

PHOENIX (AZFamily) On Thursday morning, dozens of individuals filled the Scottsdale Civic Center Library auditorium to talk about the proposed parking garage for Old Town Scottsdale’s First Street and Brown Avenue.

"I believe there are numerous queries that require answers," stated a local inhabitant.

Many have eagerly anticipated this meeting. Back in February, the city gave approval for a contract focused on designing and building a conversion of the parking garage into a two-level facility, which would result in an additional 200-plus parking spaces. This plan has caused quite a stir among residents.

"Yes, I'm upset and annoyed since it appears everything is finalized," remarked another attendee during the gathering.

The previous city council and mayor gave their approval for the plan last year because of this reason. The $112 million bond approved in 2019 .

"The public approved a bond issue to enhance parking facilities, and we are now keeping the commitments made during the bond election while also respecting the historical significance of Old Town," stated Mayor David Ortega at the time.

Currently, a fresh petition aims to halt the construction of the parking garage and push for its relocation instead. This initiative has been launched by the Scottsdale Farmers Market along with nearby establishments such as The Mission restaurant.

"We prefer not to have the view of the parking garage. There are only a handful of genuine historical structures from old town left, and we're truly committed to maintaining the charm and cultural heritage of Old Town Scottsdale," stated Madison Kendall, who speaks for The Mission restaurant located closeby.

Although the petition has gathered more than 7,000 signatures, several companies have shown significant backing for the initiative.

"It would genuinely assist local enterprises in the region by providing parking spaces for both their clients and staff, as well as handling extra vehicles from various events," stated French Thompson, who owns French Designer Jewelry.

Up until now, the city hasn’t set up a specific meeting to tackle the petition. Meanwhile, individuals such as City Councilmember Solange Whitehead have stated that the initiative will proceed according to their agreement. "We put in significant effort and explored every possibility," she explained. "This choice was made by the council I served on, and our commitment remains steadfast—to ensure none of these alternative plans are considered moving forward."

Spot a typo or mistake in our narrative? Kindly click here to file a report. .

Have you captured an image or footage from a breaking news event? Share it with us. it to us here with a brief description.