Mesa Council reviews facility improvement study for Convention Center and Amphitheater

In a recent study session held by the Mesa City Council, significant discussions centered around the future of the Mesa Convention Center and Amphitheater, highlighting the need for facility improvements to enhance economic impact and community engagement. The meeting featured a presentation by Andrea Moore, Director of Parks, Recreation, and Community Facilities, along with insights from consulting firm Convention Sports and Leisure (CSL).

The facility improvement study, which has been in progress for nearly a year, aims to address the aging infrastructure of the convention center, built in the 1970s and 1980s. Tyler Oton from CSL emphasized the importance of modernizing the venue to compete with newer facilities in the region. The study revealed a 70% increase in high-impact conventions from 2019 to 2024, indicating a growing market that Mesa must capitalize on. However, the current limitations of the convention center, including outdated amenities and insufficient hotel accommodations, pose challenges in attracting larger events.

Key recommendations from the study include the development of outdoor event spaces, enhanced lobby areas, and immersive technology to create unique experiences for event planners and attendees. The proposed improvements aim to make the convention center more appealing to a new generation of event planners who prioritize innovative and engaging environments.

The amphitheater was also a focal point of the discussion, with suggestions for upgrades to enhance artist and audience experiences. Proposed enhancements include improved backstage facilities, shading for outdoor events, and the integration of immersive technology to attract more concerts and events.

Randy McGrane, representing the Delta Hotel, highlighted the interdependence between the hotel and the convention center, stressing the need for a cohesive strategy to improve both facilities. Plans for the hotel include upgrading food and beverage offerings and enhancing connectivity to the convention center to create a more integrated experience for visitors.

The council's discussions underscored the importance of these improvements not only for economic growth but also for establishing Mesa as a vibrant destination for events and tourism. As the city moves forward, the focus will be on executing these recommendations to enhance the overall appeal of the convention district and foster a stronger connection with downtown Mesa. The anticipated next steps include further evaluations of the proposed plans and potential funding strategies to bring these improvements to fruition.