Mesa has partnered with Culdesac to transform Site 17, a long-vacant property, into a mixed-use community with housing, retail, and commercial space. The 27-acre site at the southwest corner of University Drive and Mesa Drive will include 1,000 new residential units.
Highlights
- Mesa enters into an agreement with Culdesac to develop Site 17.
- The project will bring 1,000 residential units and commercial space.
- Phase I construction is set to begin in 2027.
27-Acre Site in Mesa to Become Mixed-Use Development
Site 17 is a 27-acre vacant property along the Valley Metro light rail line that was once planned for an entertainment venue nearly 20 years ago. The agreement is set to transform the site, adding new housing, retail, and commercial spaces in downtown Mesa.
“The Culdesac project at Site 17 is an important step in adding new housing to downtown Mesa,” said Mayor Mark Freeman.
“This land has been vacant for more than 20 years, and this development will give families more options, including for-sale housing, create opportunities for small businesses, and help downtown remain a place where people choose to live, work, and invest,” Freeman added.
The project is set to deliver around 1,000 residential units that will include condominiums, townhomes and rental apartments. The development will also include 25,000 to 50,000 square feet of retail and commercial space.
“Over the past two decades, many visioning conversations about a future for Site 17 never materialized. This partnership will finally activate the site and create economic momentum by generating sales tax from commercial activity and utilities to new residents,” said Mesa City Manager Scott Butler.
“At the same time, we are partnering with a strong developer to create the housing stock we need in Mesa and the East Valley,” Butler added.
Car-Lite Design and Shaded Pedestrian Pathways Planned
The Site 17 project is located just steps from light rail stations and cultural landmarks like the Mesa Arts Center. The project is designed to blend with surrounding neighborhoods and offer new opportunities for residents.
The first phase will start with about 140 for-sale townhomes and live-work units. It will welcome new residents looking to put down roots in downtown Mesa. Culdesac has also planned for shaded pedestrian and bike pathways, open spaces, and car-lite design.
According to the official announcement, the agreement includes improvements to public spaces and better connections to the growing downtown area.
Construction on Phase I is expected to begin in 2027, pending planning and zoning approvals, with the entire project projected to be completed by 2034.
