Mesa City Council approves Fiesta Mall rezoning, clearing way for redevelopment project

PHOENIX — The Mesa City Council unanimously approved a rezoning application for the vacant Fiesta Mall property on Monday, clearing way for a major redevelopment project.

Tempe-based Verde Investments can now move forward with its plans for Fiesta Redefined, a mixed-use development with housing, retail, restaurants, offices and other amenities.

The rezoning provides flexibility for the developer and the city as the project progresses.

“This approval paves the way for a thriving, dynamic destination that will boost Mesa’s economy, create jobs and help address the Valley’s housing shortage,” David Leibowitz, a Verde Investments spokesman, said in a press release.

Why is Fiesta Mall being redeveloped?

Verde Investments, which is owned by DriveTime founder Ernie Garcia II, spent years acquiring the Fiesta Mall property, which was made up of nine parcels covering 80 acres just north of US 60 (Superstition Freeway) at Alma School Road. The developer applied for the rezoning in October 2023.

The former East Valley shopping hotspot was abandoned in 2019 after years of decline and has since been demolished.

The vision for Fiesta Redefined includes up to 4,000 housing units across multiple residential communities. The plans also call for up to 1.85 million square feet of retail and commercial space and over 500,000 square feet of walkable and bike-friendly open space.

“We’ve worked closely with Mesa’s planning team and leaders to craft a redevelopment plan that reflects the community’s values and aspirations,” Leibowitz said.