Scottsdale, city (1990 pop. 130,069), Maricopa co., central Ariz.; settled in 1895 by Winfield Scott, inc. 1951. It is a resort and retirement center in the Phoenix metropolitan area. Manufacturing includes electronic and transportation equipment, chemicals, plastic products, pharmaceuticals, and furniture. Agriculture is important to the surrounding area, which is watered by canals of the Salt River project (see Salt River valley). Scottsdale was one of the fastest-growing U.S. cities in the late 20th cent.; its population more than doubled between 1980 and 2000. The Heard Museum North, a contemporary art museum, and numerous galleries are there, and the city hosts many cultural events. The San Francisco Giants have spring training facilities in the city. Taliesin West, an architectural school and community founded by Frank Lloyd Wright, is N of the city.
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