Mayor Linda Kavanagh is calling 2015 a year of great accomplishment and activities in Fountain Hills.

“Capital improvements, new development and great family events made 2015 one of the greatest years in Fountain Hills history,” Kavanagh told The Times.

The most visible improvement, and complimented according to Kavanagh, was the reconstruction of Saguaro Boulevard.

“The old road was unsightly, rough to ride and dangerous,” Kavanagh said.

“The new road is safe, smooth and beautiful.”

Other capital projects included the transformation of the Avenue of the Fountains median into a linear park with new irrigation, electricity, lighting, benches, trees and walkways. That work was completed in late 2014.

In Fountain Park the town installed new lighting, irrigation and monument signage and made improvements to the islands in the lake.

The council also designated the islands as natural protected green areas.

At Golden Eagle Park the new tot lot, donated by the Noon Kiwanis, was installed.

“Much-needed new development also appeared in 2015 – development that will generate tax revenue, business for our merchants and more kids for our schools,” Kavanagh said.

Existing developments have also begun significant infill construction and new projects, specifically Morningstar, Hemmingway and Adero Canyon are planned or underway.

“The long awaited completion of Adero Canyon will also provide us access to our town’s mountain preserve,” Kavanagh said.

The town’s economic development department has been actively working to attract new businesses to town and assisting existing ones.

Also, a $25,000 tourism grant from community neighbors at the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community will help boost tourism with improved website and advertising.

2015 was also a great year for family fun in Fountain Hills, according to Kavanagh. The major events were the 4th of July Fireworks, Oktoberfest, St. Patrick’s Day and the two art fairs.

The town also hosted several bicycle events, Slide the City’s giant water slide, the PICO Kite Flying Festival, Concours in the Hills Auto Show and more.

“Fountain Hills was designated as a ‘pet friendly’ town, as evidenced by our expansive dog park, pet facilities and stores, and three animal rescue volunteer groups,” Kavanagh said.

“Because of this designation, some restaurants now offer pet friendly patios for their patrons.

“Republic Services’ generous $10,000 grant to Fearless Kitty Rescue is being used for a feral cat trap/neuter/return project.”

Kavanagh is scheduled to present her annual “State of the Town” remarks at a Chamber of Commerce breakfast event at the Community Center on Feb. 18.