July 2026

Building on Momentum

As we begin Fiscal Year 2027, Mesa’s Office of Economic Development (OED) continues to build on the momentum of another strong year for retail development in Mesa. Across the city, every retail district is seeing continued investment through new development, redevelopment, business openings, and projects that are reshaping Mesa’s commercial landscape. From mixed-use developments and new hospitality projects to expanding retail and entertainment destinations, the level of activity reflects the confidence businesses and investors continue to have in Mesa.

This past quarter, we were excited to launch our new retail development website and district-specific brochures, making it easier than ever for brokers, retailers, and developers to explore opportunities across Mesa. These new resources highlight each district’s market strengths, recent investments, and development activity while providing quick access to information that supports site selection decisions.

Staff in OED also wrapped up a successful ICSC Las Vegas, where we had productive conversations with retailers, developers, and investors expressing interest in development opportunities throughout the city. Beyond business attraction, we expanded our consumer marketing efforts through partnerships with local influencers, showcasing Mesa’s retail, entertainment, and hospitality assets with the goal of driving awareness and visitation.

Looking ahead, we remain focused on supporting quality development, strengthening our retail districts, and partnering with developers, brokers, and retailers to bring elevated quality experiences and places to Mesa. We are excited about what FY27 will bring and look forward to continuing to share Mesa’s momentum with you.

Jaye O’Donnell
Mesa Economic Development Director

If you have information you want considered for future inclusion or you want to speak with Mesa’s Office of Economic Development, contact Hayley Freestone, Project Manager, at Hayley.Freestone@mesaaz.gov or 480-644-5176.

Learn more about retail development opportunities in Mesa at MesaAzRetail.com.

An Ever-Evolving Canvas of Creativity and Commerce

PHOENIX magazine, Best of the Valley 2026, ranked Downtown Mesa as the Best Downtown!

Downtown Mesa continues to attract new visitors, residents, and businesses with its unique blend of culture, entertainment, and redevelopment opportunities. Home to the Mesa Arts Center, Arizona Museum of Natural History, idea Museum, and Arizona State University’s MIX Center, Downtown is a growing hub for arts, innovation, and entrepreneurship. Recent additions include Blue Corn Café, Twisterz, Mesa Padel Club, and the newly opened Unscripted by Hyatt at The 233 Suites, featuring Crust, Bombolino, and the Nightingale Speakeasy. Additional concepts, including Pinnacle Brewing and Main Street Market, are on the horizon.

Momentum continues with major projects in the pipeline, including the AC Hotel, Edge on Main bringing 423 multifamily units, the proposed Culdesac development at Site 17 adding approximately 1000 residential units, and the City’s active RFQ for 51–55 E. Main Street. With more than two million annual visitors and continued public and private investment, Downtown Mesa remains one of the region’s most active urban districts and a premier destination for retail, hospitality, and mixed-use development.

Interested in these opportunities or looking for more?
Contact us! Hayley.Freestone@mesaaz.gov.