Avenue of the Fountains medians makeover
» Expansive plaza with water features is nearing completion on the east median. » Paved walkway replaces gravel path that did not comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act. » One of several new fountains and water features nearing completion on the east median. Previous fountains were leaking. » New lighting is being added for nighttime activities on the medians. » Numerous trees are being planted on the medians to replace trees that were dying or unstable. » The makeover includes numerous shade canopies, tables and benches. said she’s glad that the town added trees and a paved walkway on the medians.
“I drive down there every morning, but I stopped doing it now that they’re getting as far along as they are because it’s hard to get down the street,” she said. “I think it’s great.”
The median closest to Saguaro Boulevard, while never considered a park, has been used for the farmers market and other activities through the years, Kavanagh said.
“But now with the addition of shade, benches and a stable walkway that’s Americans with Disabilities Act compliant, we can use it for so much more,” she said. “It will be the site of our town’s 25th anniversary celebration on December 6.”
The town is receiving suggestions from residents to name the new park. Those suggestions will be narrowed to five names by the town’s Community Services staff members, Rachel Goodwin and Grace Rodman-Guetter, and presented to the Town Council at its Nov. 6 meeting.
At that time, the council will select one of those names.
Ira Kay, a 10-year resident, is skeptical whether the new park will help downtown businesses because few of them are even open in the evening.
“Everybody in Fountain Hills gets in their cars and drives to Scottsdale,” he said. “I don’t think that’s going to change.”