Construction will begin next year on a voter-approved bond project to add solar shade canopies to Scottsdale City Hall’s parking lot - a sustainable improvement that will provide both energy savings and community benefits.

The $1.97 million project will install photovoltaic “Parasol” canopies over two sections of the City Hall parking lot, offsetting approximately 75% of the utility use at City Hall. Staff estimates the project will pay for itself within 20 years through reduced energy costs - generating long-term savings that exceed the initial $1.97 million investment.

The project will also create a shaded, flexible public gathering area that could host city and community events, including a potential future home for the Old Town Scottsdale Farmers Market.

The first canopy will cover 34 parking spaces along the east side of the lot adjacent to 75th Street, providing 16 feet of clearance to accommodate high-profile vehicles and temporary event structures. A second, 14-foot canopy will shade 19 parking spaces along Bennie Gonzalez Way.

“This is a great example of our bond dollars at work,” said City Manager Greg Caton. “Scottsdale voters made a smart investment in sustainable infrastructure that benefits both residents and the environment.”

Bond financing for the project was approved by Scottsdale voters in 2019 to support citywide improvements to parks, public safety and community spaces. In April 2024, City Council approved the design phase contract for solar infrastructure at three city sites; on Oct. 21, the Council authorized the first construction phase for City Hall.

The project was reviewed by the Scottsdale Environmental Advisory Commission in August 2025 and aligns with General Plan goals to increase renewable energy production and energy efficiency in public facilities.

Construction is scheduled to begin in spring 2026, with completion anticipated later that year.