Scottsdale's investment in blending sports and parking infrastructure seems to be paying off, with the Reata Sports Complex exceeding expectations in its first year. According to a recent announcement by the City of Scottsdale , the Reata Sports Complex, financed by bonds approved by voters in 2019, has hosted 16 sports events since it opened and is gearing up for more in 2025. Local and regional sports enthusiasts have had a chance to compete in soccer, lacrosse, rugby, and ultimate frisbee through events spread across the complex’s five international-sized soccer fields. Having strategized its location next to WestWorld and a brief two-mile dash from TPC Scottsdale, the complex has not only played host to athletic competitions but has also conveniently doubled as overflow parking for other city events. Despite being adjacent to WestWorld, during high-profile events like the Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction and WM Phoenix Open, Reata has been a godsend for parking, managing to help alleviate traffic congestion and accommodate throngs of event-goers, details from the City’s press release indicated. Senior Director Nick Molinari proudly acknowledged the complex's multifaceted role in a statement obtained by the city's news release , stating, "In its first year, Reata has proven to be an invaluable asset to Scottsdale. It’s not only enhancing our recreational offerings but also delivering on a key commitment to our residents — to provide a flexible space that meets both sporting and event-related needs. This kind of versatility benefits the entire community." Reata Sports Complex has given Scottsdale's sports tourism an unmistakable boost. The addition of 31,000 field reservation hours in fiscal year 2024-25 for Reata has sported a ripple effect across the city's economy, bolstering hotel room bookings linked to sports events by 20% compared to the previous year. Now, with 21 sports fields under Scottsdale's belt, the city is conveniently poised to cater to local clubs and larger-scale events, while doubling as parking for major events, the release outlined.
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