$53 Million Upgrade to Dr. A.J. Chandler Park Set to Transform Downtown Chandler

Downtown Chandler is poised for a significant transformation with a $53 million upgrade to Dr. A.J. Chandler Park, slated to commence in early 2026.

 

This ambitious project seeks to modernize the park, enhancing its role as a central hub for community events and local commerce.

 

Originally renovated in 1986, the park has become a focal point for over 100 annual events, including the beloved Tumbleweed Tree Lighting and weekly farmer’s markets.

 

Recognizing the need for modernization, the city completed a Master Plan in 2017, updated in 2024, to address current infrastructure needs and community priorities.

 

Phase one of the renovation includes the removal of outdated water features, increased shaded areas, updated landscaping and irrigation, activation of the park’s east side, new restrooms, and enhanced event spaces.

 

Additionally, a new pedestrian crossing with a HAWK signal at Arizona Avenue will improve safety and connectivity between the park’s east and west sides.

 

Construction is expected to begin in January 2026, with completion anticipated by spring 2027.

 

During this period, certain parking areas along Arizona Avenue will be limited, but parking structures and surface street parking will remain available to visitors.

 

The city has engaged in extensive outreach to ensure the renovation reflects the community’s needs and aspirations.

 

Programs like Chandler Local Deals exemplify this commitment by incentivizing residents to support local businesses through a seamless digital coupon delivery system for local Chandler Businesses.

 

Users can download great offers from Chandler Local businesses that help local restaurants, shops and markets of all types grow. Customers receive a digital voucher on their phone and via email. When they visit a business, they simply show the voucher on their phone. The business verifies and redeem it through a simple process.

 

These initiatives not only encourage spending at local shops and eateries but also strengthen the social fabric by promoting shared experiences at community events and markets.

 

The renovation plans aim to enhance these experiences by creating comfortable seating areas, shaded plazas, and improved event infrastructure.

 

Local businesses are integral to downtown Chandler’s unique character and economic vitality.

 

The renovation project acknowledges this by incorporating features that increase visibility and accessibility for storefronts and commercial spaces.

 

Improved pedestrian pathways, better lighting, and aesthetically pleasing plazas are designed to attract foot traffic and encourage longer visits.

 

Moreover, Chandler Local Deals plays a critical role in supporting small businesses during and after the renovation.

 

By offering a digital platform where customers can easily discover participating businesses and earn rewards, the program drives patronage and helps businesses build lasting customer relationships.

 

Chandler offers an Infill Incentive Plan and Adaptive Reuse Program, which clear the way for business owners to renovate older buildings without facing prohibitive costs for mandatory code updates.

 

This approach preserves the historic charm of downtown Chandler while enabling modernization and growth.

 

The renovation also includes exciting new projects.

 

The Oregon Street Food Hall will be converted from properties at 200 and 210 S. Oregon St. into a two-story food hall housing up to 12 restaurants.

 

One Chandler is a new mixed-use development featuring ground-floor retail, second-story offices, and five floors of multi-family housing.

 

As these developments emerge, the synergy between new and existing businesses will create a dynamic commercial ecosystem.

 

Modern urban development must prioritize sustainability, and the downtown Chandler renovation is no exception.

 

The project incorporates eco-friendly materials, energy-efficient lighting, and water conservation measures to minimize environmental impact.

 

New shade trees and event lawns not only beautify the area but also reduce the urban heat island effect and improve air quality, creating a healthier environment for the community.

 

Technology integration is another key feature of the renovation.

 

Public Wi-Fi, digital signage, and smart lighting systems will enhance the user experience by providing real-time information and improving safety.

 

Chandler Local Deals exemplifies this tech-forward approach by leveraging mobile offers to engage users and promote local commerce seamlessly.

 

These innovations ensure that downtown Chandler is not only a vibrant social hub but also a resilient and adaptive space prepared for future challenges and opportunities.

 

Engagement with the downtown renovation and Chandler Local Deals program is easy and rewarding.

 

Residents and visitors are encouraged to: Sign up for The Chandler Local newsletter and 

 

Follow Chandler Local Deals on facebook to get the latest local deals in Chandler!

 

Visit downtown Chandler to watch the progress of the renovation and experience the ongoing improvements firsthand.

 

Attend weekly farmer’s markets and festivals, especially on weekends, to support local vendors and enjoy special community events.

 

Provide feedback to city planners and participate in public meetings to share ideas and concerns.

 

Frequent local businesses participating in the rewards program to help sustain the downtown economy.

 

Watch for updates and progress reports on construction, and visit the area regularly to stay informed about new developments and amenities as they open.

 

By actively participating, community members contribute to a thriving, inclusive, and sustainable downtown Chandler.

 

The downtown Chandler renovation represents a bold step toward creating a modern, connected, and community-focused city center.

 

With thoughtful planning, sustainable practices, and innovative programs like Chandler Flex Rewards, the city is fostering an environment where businesses flourish, residents connect, and visitors feel welcome.

 

As construction progresses and new projects come to life, downtown Chandler will continue to evolve as a vibrant hub of culture, commerce, and community.

 

The collaboration between the city, local businesses, and residents ensures that this transformation benefits everyone and preserves the unique character that makes Chandler special.

 

Downtown Chandler’s renovation is more than a physical makeover—it is a reimagining of what a city center can be when community, commerce, and culture come together.

 

Through strategic investments in infrastructure, support for local businesses, and innovative engagement programs like Chandler Flex Rewards, Chandler is building a downtown that is not only beautiful and functional but also deeply connected to the people it serves.

 

Whether you are a longtime resident, a local business owner, or a visitor, there has never been a better time to experience downtown Chandler.

 

Join the movement, explore the new spaces, support local businesses, and be part of a community that is growing stronger every day.