Staff Reports | Mayor of Scottsdale
Scottsdale City Council unanimously approved two major funding initiatives aimed at enhancing the infrastructure and operational capabilities of WestWorld of Scottsdale, a premier event venue and economic driver for the city.
Scottsdale City Council approved the funding requests at its Oct. 7 regular meeting at City Hall, 3939 N. Drinkwater Blvd.
“WestWorld is a cornerstone of Scottsdale’s tourism and economic vitality,” Scottsdale Mayor Lisa Borowsky. “These investments ensure we continue to deliver world-class experiences for our residents and visitors while supporting the equestrian and event communities that rely on this facility.”
Both of these funding approvals come on the heels of Mayor Borowsky organizing stakeholder meetings with WestWorld of Scottsdale vendors who produce first-in-class events such as the Arabian Horse Show and Barrett-Jackson collector car auction, among others.
The items now funded include:
1. Upgrades to the PA system at WestWorld of Scottsdale
Scottsdale City Council approved Resolution No. 13514, which authorizes a $625,000 transfer from the fiscal year 2025/26 General Fund Capital Contingency Budget to accelerate the WestWorld Public Address System Cabling Installation project. The upgrade will replace aging underground cabling — over 20 years old — and relocate audio equipment to improve sound quality and reliability across the venue.
The project, originally scheduled for FY 2026/27, will now begin in FY 2025/26 to address immediate operational needs. Work will be scheduled around existing events and is anticipated to take approximately 14–16 weeks.
2. Temporary horse stall replacement at WestWorld of Scottsdale
Scottsdale City Council also adopted Resolution No. 13512, which approves a contract modification with Caruso Construction, Inc. for the purchase of 160 new temporary horse stall panels and hardware. The contract, not to exceed $579,124, is part of the 2019 Bond Project 45 to renovate WestWorld’s horse barns and increase rentable space.
Additionally, Scottsdale City Council authorized a $600,000 budget transfer to create a new capital project titled WestWorld Temporary Horse Stalls, ensuring the facility meets its contractual obligations for the February 2026 Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show. The new stalls will replace aging units that have exceeded their useful life and are no longer operable without significant repairs.
Together, these improvements support WestWorld’s role in hosting over 80 events annually, contributing an estimated $163 million in economic impact to Scottsdale.
“These upgrades reflect our commitment to maintaining Scottsdale’s reputation as a top-tier destination for equestrian and special events,” added Mayor Borowsky.
