During a recent government meeting, officials highlighted a pressing need for senior affordable housing in downtown Mesa, emphasizing the city's growing senior population and the increasing risk of homelessness among this demographic. The discussion centered around the findings from the Mesa Balanced Housing Master Plan, which revealed that seniors are one of the fastest-growing groups entering homelessness in the area.
According to the plan, Mesa requires over 23,000 housing units for individuals earning 50% of the Area Median Income (AMI) or less. Currently, seniors make up approximately 20 to 25 percent of the city's population, underscoring the urgent demand for affordable housing solutions tailored to their needs.
The meeting also presented a potential development opportunity involving three parcels located at the southwest corner of University and Center, specifically at 1731 and 1737 West University Drive. This initiative aims to address the identified housing gap and provide essential support for the senior community in Mesa.