Mesa, Arizona
WolfBrown undertook a comprehensive facility planning project for Mesa, the largest city in the Phoenix metro region and an area with accelerated population growth. The assignment required evaluation of several downtown development sites, analysis of competition with other nearby existing or planned facilities (including Phoenix and Scottsdale), and incorporation of an existing successful community Art Center and cultural district in the final conception.
The final report recommended a two-phased project that allowed for the development of a reconstituted art center, gallery space, several smaller theatre spaces, as well as classroom and meeting spaces. The second phase would include the development of a large venue for symphony and other uses. It also recommended capital funding mechanisms and developed multi-year operating budgets.
The City moved aggressively on this project, choosing to build it in a single phase and Mesa voters approved a sales tax measure for the project. The plans call for four theatres — of 1,600-, 600-, 250-, and 150-seats. After sponsoring a national design competition, the City selected BOORA Associates architects.
Go to www.ci.mesa.az.us/parksrec/culturalmuseums/artscenter.htm