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Scottsdale sets marching orders for GO bond project allocations

Posted 3/8/20

Scottsdale is quickly moving ahead to start on several capital improvement projects created from the 2019 bond, as more than $11 million in work has already been approved.

On March 3, the …

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Scottsdale sets marching orders for GO bond project allocations

Posted

Scottsdale is quickly moving ahead to start on several capital improvement projects created from the 2019 bond, as more than $11 million in work has already been approved.

On March 3, the Scottsdale City Council approved on consent a total of eight projects to be funded by general obligation bond 2019 proceeds.

The projects range from replacing and installing needed infrastructure to starting on event space upgrades --- such as Civic Center Plaza, where the city hopes Super Bowl 2023 events are staged --- and replacing tennis court surfaces to continue hosting national tournaments.

The approved projects include:

  • Replace aging infrastructure and improve public and event spaces on Civic Center Plaza: $4 million;
  • Replace tennis court surfaces at Indian School Park and Scottsdale Tennis Center: $3,497,104
  • Install high efficiency lighting at four facilities: $1,224,304;
  • Renovate arena at WestWorld to provide flexible event space: $960,298
  • Expand restrooms in WestWorld North Hall: $701,532;
  • Replace the city’s obsolete training software: $342,000;
  • Replace emergency power source for public safety radio network: $305,240; and
  • Install fiber optic infrastructure to reduce operating costs: $291,030.

The eight projects were approved in two separate consent agenda items.

The total bond, which included three separate voter-approved questions, was for $319 million.

The fiscal year 2019-20 adopted budget included $20 million of General Fund capital improvement project contingency budget authority to utilize as required in the event the 2019 bond program was successful.

City Council has already approved two other projects, replacing outdated emergency response equipment for the fire department and replacement of a fire utility truck. The newest council approval will allocate nearly $8 million of the remaining $13,441,858 contingency budget authority.

In addition, a declaration of intent to reimburse with bond proceeds will be prepared by the city treasurer so the city may be reimbursed for bond project expenditures.

“The bonds will be sold at a time to be recommended by the City Treasurer and approved by Council based on the progress made on the projects, current interest rates and other factors,” City Engineer Dave Lipinski stated in a city staff report.

For the love of tennis

In addition to the nearly $3.5 million funds from the city, the tennis court surface replacement will also utilize a $50,000 grant from the United States Tennis Association, according to a city staff report.

Scottsdale’s Parks and Recreation Department has 51 tennis courts citywide, with 18 being at Scottsdale Ranch Park Tennis Center and 13 at Indian School Park. An additional 20 courts are throughout the municipality in neighborhood parks.

The two large tennis centers generate revenue through lessons, leagues, drop-in use and use by organizations facilitating tournaments and events.

Last year, Scottsdale Ranch Park Tennis Center hosted 30 tournaments or events including seven regional and three national tournaments. The tennis events created significant economic impact to the city with hotel and car rentals, restaurant and retail, the city staff report stated.

The year prior, Scottsdale Ranch Park Tennis Center hosted 30 tournaments/events, including seven regional and three national tournaments.

Direct revenue from the tournaments was in excess of $23,000, while the estimated economic impact to the city was $200,000.

“Due to the location and outstanding facilities, Scottsdale Ranch Park has become one of the most sought-after venues for hosting tournaments by the USTA Southwest Section and other event hosts,” the staff report penned by Recreation Manager Andrew Passmonick stated.

In 2019, city staff completed a grant application to renovate four 78-foot tennis courts at Scottsdale Ranch Park Tennis Center, converting from asphalt to post-tension concrete, which was reciprocated with the $50,000 grant.

“Having the ability to provide permanent improvements to the tennis courts at Scottsdale Ranch Park allows for tournament hosts to continue their relationship with the City of Scottsdale providing events that draw players and spectators from across Arizona, the southwest and the country.”

In fiscal year 2018-19, events at Scottsdale Ranch Park hosted 2,703 tournament players, with 440 being from outside of Arizona, and 6,000 spectators, with 700 being from outside Arizona.