3 Scottsdale Parks Projects Earn Statewide Recognition

SCOTTSDALE, AZ — Three Scottsdale parks and recreation projects have earned statewide recognition, highlighting the city’s push to build public spaces that are both useful and carefully designed.

The honors, announced in a city news release May 12, went to Ashler Hills Park, the Roundhouse at McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park and the Reata Sports Complex operations building.

Ashler Hills Park, Scottsdale’s newest and northernmost park, drew the most attention. The 17-acre site picked up multiple awards for sustainable design and landscaping, including top honors from Arizona Forward and the American Society of Landscape Architects Arizona.

The park was built to fit its Sonoran Desert surroundings, with shaded playgrounds, open turf, picnic ramadas, adult fitness equipment, a basketball court and eight pickleball courts.

City officials say more than half the site was left as open space, native plants were restored and mature saguaros were protected or relocated onsite.

The project also includes rainwater harvesting, bioswales and energy-efficient lighting, features city leaders say reflect a longer-term approach to park development.

“This recognition reflects Scottsdale’s commitment to building parks that are not only beautiful and functional, but also environmentally responsible,” City Manager Greg Caton said.

The Roundhouse at McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park also brought home statewide honors at the Arizona Masonry Council’s Excellence in Masonry Awards Banquet. The structure earned recognition for craftsmanship, architectural design and overall quality.

At Reata Sports Complex, the city’s new operations building received a Distinguished Architecture Citation from the American Institute of Architects Arizona.

The 4,916-square-foot building supports tournament play and sports tourism, with features including single-occupant restrooms, outdoor handwashing stations and space for Parks & Recreation staff.

“Whether it’s a neighborhood park, a signature attraction like the Roundhouse or a regional sports complex, we’re focused on creating spaces that serve our community and endure for generations to come,” said Nick Molinari, senior director of Parks & Recreation and Preserve.