Kevin Gardiner & Associates led a multi-disciplinary consultant team in updating its Downtown Plan. The process was custom-tailored to the needs of the City and its downtown with an emphasis on district character, connectivity within downtown, streetscape character, and sustainability.

The project included an extensive public outreach process that engaged more than 1,200 community members through a wide range of activities, including public workshops, focus groups, one-onone meetings, business and property owner forums, walking audits, a design charrette, and online open houses and surveys.

The project was structured to be a team effort with the City, with the consultant team working collaboratively with staff through the process.

The watercolor renderings in the plan were painted by Senior Planner Bob Wood of the City of Scottsdale Advance Planning, Policy and Design Services.

Results

• Provided the framework for integrated transportation and land use.

• Reinforced Scottsdale’s downtown as a mixed-use center and strengthened its role as the city’s symbolic and economic center.

• Design and character policies emphasized contextually sensitive architecture, quality public spaces, and a more pedestrianfriendly environment.

• Highly-collaborative planning process with city staff and the consultant team working together.

• Served as a visionary blueprint that guided downtown Scottsdale’s transformation over the subsequent decade.

• Winner of the American Planning Association (APA) Arizona Chapter for “Best Public Participation Program”