New Western museum could be coming to Scottsdale

Scottsdale City Council members are being asked to write a check for $14 million to build a Western art and history museum in the downtown arts district.

Ned O’Hearn, with the nonprofit Scottsdale Museum of the West, said if the city commits then his group will gather private donations to cover design and annual operating costs.

“Scottsdale is known as the West’s most Western town,” said O’Hearn. “And, people come here to experience the West. We’ve never really had a venue where people can learn and appreciate the whole story of the West.”

He said the museum would be an economic driver for downtown businesses and art galleries.

Council members could make a decision Tuesday night. If they approve, the museum on city-owned land northwest of Marshall Way and Second Street could be open within 18 months.