Renovations at Dr. A.J. Chandler Park in Downtown Chandler are scheduled to begin in January 2026, following agreements approved by the City Council. The park, which last underwent renovations in 1986, is a key site for community events such as the Tumbleweed Tree Lighting and a weekly farmer’s market.
Chandler has seen significant growth in multi-family housing, office spaces, and retail development around the downtown area. This increase has led to greater use of Dr. A.J. Chandler Park, which now hosts over 100 events each year. The city completed a Master Plan for the park in 2017 to address infrastructure needs like drinking fountains, restrooms, and landscaping. In 2024, this plan was updated to reflect current priorities and introduce a phased approach to improvements.
The first phase will focus on removing outdated water features, expanding shaded areas, updating landscaping and irrigation systems, activating the east side of the park, adding seating and gathering spaces, building new restrooms, increasing event space, and improving pedestrian crossings at Arizona Avenue.
Construction services have been contracted to Willmeng Construction. Dibble Construction Management and Dig Studio will provide professional support during the renovation process.
The project includes demolishing existing pavements and structures; constructing new plazas; relocating public art; upgrading lighting and power infrastructure; and installing a new crosswalk signal at Arizona Avenue. New features will include event lawns, seasonal plazas with social activities, two pavilions, two restroom buildings, storage rooms, large shade canopies, site furniture, and below-ground soil improvements for shade trees.
City staff collaborated with the Downtown Chandler Community Partnership (DCCP), property owners, and local businesses throughout planning to gather input on design choices and manage construction impacts.
According to the city’s official history page https://www.chandleraz.gov/explore/arts-and-culture/history-of-chandler, Chandler regularly hosts family festivals that draw visitors from across the region. Dr. A.J. Chandler Park serves as a central gathering spot surrounded by shops and historic sites in downtown Chandler https://www.chandleraz.gov/explore/arts-and-culture/history-of-chandler. The city aims to deliver quality public services while fostering an engaged community environment https://www.chandleraz.gov/government/city-managers-office/mission-vision-and-values.
For more information about this project or to view renderings of planned improvements visit Downtown Improvements.
