During a recent government meeting, Mesa officials discussed the city's redevelopment strategy, emphasizing the need for proactive measures to revitalize aging properties and optimize land use. Jeff McVay, the manager of urban transformation, along with key team members, presented an overview of their approach, highlighting that less than 10% of Mesa remains undeveloped.
The team aims to create momentum for redevelopment by identifying potential sites, connecting with developers, and facilitating the development review process. McVay noted that many properties from the construction boom of the 1970s are nearing the end of their useful life, necessitating a new vision for these sites. He stressed that while the city does not intend to develop these properties directly, it plays a crucial role in attracting investment and easing the business process.
Key benefits of redevelopment were outlined, including improved quality of life for residents, leveraging existing infrastructure, and supporting diverse housing options. The strategy aligns with the city's Climate Action Plan by promoting energy-efficient structures and optimizing land use to meet the evolving needs of the community.
The officials underscored the importance of creating a \"keystone project\" to stimulate further investment and redevelopment in the city. By establishing a single point of contact for developers and enhancing entitlement assistance, the team aims to streamline the process and encourage reinvestment in Mesa's neighborhoods.