Under the City of Scottsdale Community Services Division Schedule of Program Charges, Rental Fees, and Fines effective July 1, 2024 (CS Fees and Charges Policy) and adopted by City Council through Resolution No. 13112 on May 14, 2024, the City of Scottsdale Community Services Representative (as defined in the CS Fees and Charges Policy) may authorize fees on a trial or “pilot” basis of approximately one year or less with a possible temporary extension, subject to compliance with the CS Fees and Charges Policy, provided any state law requirements are followed, including as necessary the required notice and approval by the applicable board or commission. The Parks and Recreation Commission is the applicable board or commission designated under the CS Fees and Charges Policy to review this proposed pilot fee.

In accordance with A.R.S. § 9-499.15, public notice is hereby given that the City of Scottsdale Parks and Recreation Commission (Commission) may consider recommending a new pilot fee for the soon to be completed Roundhouse at the McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park at its meeting scheduled to be held at 4:00 p.m. on May 21, 2025 at the Scottsdale Stadium located at 7408 E Osborn Road , Scottsdale, AZ 85251, but no sooner than 60 days after the posting date of this notice.  Following the Commission’s recommendation, the Community Services Representative may implement the new McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park Roundhouse fee for approximately one year or less, with a possible temporary extension, subject to compliance with the Fees and Charges Policy.

Schedule of New Pilot Fee and Written Report

McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park is located at 7301 E. Indian Bend Road, Scottsdale, AZ 85250.  McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park, spanning 30 acres in the heart of Scottsdale, is a destination park offering unique attractions. It features a variety of locomotives, including steam and diesel trains, an antique 1950s Allan Herschell carousel, charming shops, museums, model train exhibits, and one-of-a-kind outdoor play areas. In April 2024, the park began construction on several exciting additions, including the Roundhouse, a splash pad, and a new entry plaza.  The Roundhouse is a 10,000-square-foot facility featuring a unique indoor interactive play structure designed in the shape of a locomotive. Visitors can access this exciting attraction by paying an entry fee, allowing them to enjoy the one-of-a-kind play experience. These enhancements will provide visitors with fresh experiences, ensuring the park remains vibrant and busy year-round, even during the summer heat. Located on the north end of the park, the new amenities are expected to open in the summer of 2025 The park operates through a special revenue fund that supports its staff, contracts, and commodities. Additionally, the park collaborates with the non-profit Scottsdale Railroad and Mechanical Society, which provides both funding and technical assistance to support park operations.  When determining the appropriate entry fee for visitors to access the Roundhouse, a detailed analysis was conducted. This included comparing fees charged by similar play spaces within the Phoenix Metro area to ensure competitiveness. Additionally, comprehensive cash flow proformas were created to evaluate cost recovery and maintain affordability. Key factors such as affordability for visitors, the building's capacity, and overall cost recovery were thoroughly considered in the decision-making process, ensuring a balance between financial sustainability and accessibility for park guests.  Park patrons under the age of 2 can enter for free with a paying adult.  The first adult can enter for free with a paid child.  If implemented, the new pilot fee will be in addition to the already established fees for the McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park. 
The intent is for the fees, if implemented by the Community Services Representative as outlined above and in the CS Fees and Charges Policy, to become effective as of May 31st, 2025, on a pilot basis and then be considered and potentially adopted by the Scottsdale City Council on a more permanent basis through the annual Fees and Charges process for FY 26/27.  

A schedule of the proposed new pilot fee follows:

MCCORMICK-STILLMAN RAILROAD PARK
PROPOSED NEW PILOT FEE 
(TO BE EFFECTIVE May 31st, 2025)