Scottsdale Canal

Photo by Vicki Leigh Bell

The Arizona Canal project was begun in the 1880's, starting from the Granite Reef Dam in Mesa and ending at New River.  This water source led to the development of several cities, including Scottsdale.  One hundred years later, Scottsdale Waterfront project was part of a revitalization project for South Scottsdale.  The canal not only provides water, but the canal banks make great areas to jog, bike, walk dogs, and now take a Segway tour.  Fifty properties were purchased to make way for the luxury condos and new businesses, allowing for a beautification of the banks of the canal, which makes it look more like a river.  This Waterfront project links the Scottsdale neighborhoods such as Old Town to the posh shopping areas of Scottsdale Fashion Square.  The bridges make it easy for pedestrians and the free downtown trolley to navigate nearly traffic free.