Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community grant aids Downtown Mesa
Staff Reports | Digital Free Press
The Downtown Mesa Association, in partnership with the Mesa Office of Downtown Transformation, is carving out a place strictly for the purpose of creating a closer sense of community.
The Yard Off Main, a pedestrian plaza, is in the heart of the Downtown area. Thanks to a generous grant provided by the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community, the public gathering place, located between north of Main Street on Macdonald, will be a destination for those looking for comradery and entertainment, according to a press release.
“There really is nothing like the Yard Off Main in any Downtown area in Metro Phoenix,” said Terry Madeksza, executive director of the Downtown Mesa Association, in a prepared statement.
“The space is answering a need for residents, providing a place where the community can gather with outdoor dining walking distance away, lawn games offered throughout the week, live music, and a variety of events. It’s a simple idea that we hope leaves a big impact.”
Mr. Madeksza says regularly scheduled activities have started now through April, with new activations being added weekly, but the sky is the limit for those looking to utilize the area.
“This is a place for all ages and there will be organized events, but we are also offering it to the community to utilize The Yard as a place people can meet, regardless of if there is something happening there that day or not,” Mr. Madeksza said. “Our hope is that residents will see the bigger picture in what we want to accomplish by creating a space that fosters a sense of community.”
Events and activities taking place at The Yard Off Main, that feature local merchants and community members, are slated each day of the week with the Farm to Mesa Market from 8 a.m. to noon every Sunday.
“Of course, we want you to come to Food Truck Monday then visit us for our Downtown Coffee Break on Tuesday and end your week with live music at dusk on Friday nights during our Sunset Sounds,” said Mr. Madeksza.
“But we also want to see moms sitting with their kids having a playdate on the grounds and students taking their lunch on the lawn between fieldtrips at the museum. This is about creating a place for connection.”
