Welcome to MesaCONNECTED!
Click on "Stay Informed" on the right side of your screen so we can send you updates and notices about future involvement opportunities!
What is MesaCONNECTED?
The MesaCONNECTED Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) Plan is a long-range planning tool that creates a vision for Transit Oriented Development along three major transit corridors in West Mesa.
The study area encompasses a ½-mile radius on either side of segments of Rio Salado Parkway, Dobson Road, Southern Avenue, and Country Club Drive as shown on the map below.
What is Transit-Oriented Development?
Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) involves the creation of vibrant, mixed-use, pedestrian-friendly communities centered around high-quality transit systems. By expanding mobility choices and providing diverse housing and lifestyle options, TOD connects residents with jobs, education and public amenities, while fostering community interactions, reducing traffic congestion and creating economic opportunities for existing and future businesses.
What is Streetcar and How is it Different from Light Rail?
Unlike Light Rail, Streetcar can either operate on a dedicated guideway or share traffic lanes with vehicles.Streetcars have smaller cars than Light Rail, and Streetcar stations are closer together than Light Rail, typically about ½ mile apart. In addition, Streetcar stations can be more easily integrated into both residential and commercial areas.
Follow the links below to learn more about Valley Metro's existing and planned streetcar routes:
Rio East-Dobson Streetcar Extension Study
Rio East-Dobson Streetcar Extension Study Fact Sheet
Valley Metro Tempe Streetcar Line
Examples of Transit-Oriented Development from Other Cities
Orenco Station, Hillsboro, OR
The planning and design of this TOD has led to its recognition as one of the most “livable” communities in the U.S. The comfort of pedestrians is maximized through the strategic placement of trees, shade structures and the design of buildings. Orenco Station has become a highly sought- after location to live and work due to its offering of a range of housing options, a vibrant town center, abundant park space and diverse mobility choices.
Cul-de-Sac, Tempe, AZ
This TOD integrates restaurants, retail and a grocery store at a neighborhood scale. The strategic mix of uses and their varied operating hours result in lively spaces that remain active beyond typical business hours. Convenient access to transit is provided by a pedestrian friendly environment that is enhanced with public amenities such as art, seating, and ample shade.
Plaza Saltillo, Austin, TX
Plaza Saltillo has helped reduce traffic congestion and transportation costs for residents by locating grocery stores, dry cleaners and other local services proximate to housing, as well as providing convenient access to nearby employment centers via the streetcar system.
Fruitvale Village, Oakland, CA
Exemplifies the benefits of equitable transit-oriented development by providing convenient access to community services, including a senior center, library, Head Start preschool and medical clinic.
What We Have Heard from the Community So Far
In the spring of 2024, the project team conducted interviews, focus groups and community meetings, attended local events and widely publicized an online survey to gather input to inform the plan. Below are highlights of the feedback received to date. To stay informed and receive updates and notices about future involvement opportunities, click “Stay Informed” on the right side of your screen.
Improved safety and increased shade would have the greatest benefit for West Mesa.
71% want the convenience of walking or biking to a nearby restaurant or shopping center.
60% wish they could get around West Mesa without worrying about parking.
People would like parks, public spaces, sit-down restaurants, and grocery stores in West Mesa.
Welcome to MesaCONNECTED!
Click on "Stay Informed" on the right side of your screen so we can send you updates and notices about future involvement opportunities!
What is MesaCONNECTED?
The MesaCONNECTED Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) Plan is a long-range planning tool that creates a vision for Transit Oriented Development along three major transit corridors in West Mesa.
The study area encompasses a ½-mile radius on either side of segments of Rio Salado Parkway, Dobson Road, Southern Avenue, and Country Club Drive as shown on the map below.
What is Transit-Oriented Development?
Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) involves the creation of vibrant, mixed-use, pedestrian-friendly communities centered around high-quality transit systems. By expanding mobility choices and providing diverse housing and lifestyle options, TOD connects residents with jobs, education and public amenities, while fostering community interactions, reducing traffic congestion and creating economic opportunities for existing and future businesses.
What is Streetcar and How is it Different from Light Rail?
Unlike Light Rail, Streetcar can either operate on a dedicated guideway or share traffic lanes with vehicles.Streetcars have smaller cars than Light Rail, and Streetcar stations are closer together than Light Rail, typically about ½ mile apart. In addition, Streetcar stations can be more easily integrated into both residential and commercial areas.
Follow the links below to learn more about Valley Metro's existing and planned streetcar routes:
Rio East-Dobson Streetcar Extension Study
Rio East-Dobson Streetcar Extension Study Fact Sheet
Valley Metro Tempe Streetcar Line
Examples of Transit-Oriented Development from Other Cities
Orenco Station, Hillsboro, OR
The planning and design of this TOD has led to its recognition as one of the most “livable” communities in the U.S. The comfort of pedestrians is maximized through the strategic placement of trees, shade structures and the design of buildings. Orenco Station has become a highly sought- after location to live and work due to its offering of a range of housing options, a vibrant town center, abundant park space and diverse mobility choices.
Cul-de-Sac, Tempe, AZ
This TOD integrates restaurants, retail and a grocery store at a neighborhood scale. The strategic mix of uses and their varied operating hours result in lively spaces that remain active beyond typical business hours. Convenient access to transit is provided by a pedestrian friendly environment that is enhanced with public amenities such as art, seating, and ample shade.
Plaza Saltillo, Austin, TX
Plaza Saltillo has helped reduce traffic congestion and transportation costs for residents by locating grocery stores, dry cleaners and other local services proximate to housing, as well as providing convenient access to nearby employment centers via the streetcar system.
Fruitvale Village, Oakland, CA
Exemplifies the benefits of equitable transit-oriented development by providing convenient access to community services, including a senior center, library, Head Start preschool and medical clinic.
What We Have Heard from the Community So Far
In the spring of 2024, the project team conducted interviews, focus groups and community meetings, attended local events and widely publicized an online survey to gather input to inform the plan. Below are highlights of the feedback received to date. To stay informed and receive updates and notices about future involvement opportunities, click “Stay Informed” on the right side of your screen.
Improved safety and increased shade would have the greatest benefit for West Mesa.
71% want the convenience of walking or biking to a nearby restaurant or shopping center.
60% wish they could get around West Mesa without worrying about parking.
People would like parks, public spaces, sit-down restaurants, and grocery stores in West Mesa.
