Mesa Artspace Lofts
Mesa Artspace Lofts Groundbreaking – 155 South Hibbert, Mesa
Mesa Artspace Lofts is a newly constructed 50-unit development, which includes workforce-housing units for families, with 15 units specifically for households with children. The total development budget was approximately $15,938,603. The vacant property was obtained through the City of Mesa.
Planning for this project began in 2012 at the invitation of the City of Mesa, Neighborhood Economic Development Corporation, the neighborhoods, Mesa Arts & Culture Department, Mesa City Council and JPMorgan Chase & Co. It meets the City’s high-priority need in their HUD-approved consolidated plan.
The project contains 17 one-bedroom, one-bathroom, 18 two-bedroom, one-bathroom and 15 three-bedroom, two-bathroom units. There are 18 units reserved for households with incomes below 40% Area Median Income (AMI), 23 units for households with incomes below 50% AMI, and 9 units for households with incomes below 60% AMI. The property will include a ground floor commercial space. The space will be 1,450 square feet and will be leased to an arts-related organization at an affordable rent to cover expenses and overhead. The property will be well-suited for artistic families with children, featuring multiple-age appropriate outdoor play areas and a community welcoming to families. There is a children’s center nearby, at First Presbyterian Preschool of Mesa.
The location of the project allows it’s residents to enjoy access to parks, transit stops, schools, grocery stores, and community centers. Having the project in proximity to the Mesa Arts Center, is what makes these units to families inclined to the arts so appealing.
The building contains enhanced physical features that include low maintenance and energy efficient appliances and equipment, common areas with a library and computer room, covered and secure parking for vehicles and bicycles, a laundry room, BBQ and picnic area, a playground, elevator, and a lobby that will be used as a gallery for local artists.
The partnership between the developer and A New Leaf offers access to a Benefits Specialist, Computer Training, Financial Literacy classes, a Food Pantry, Job Training, Nutrition Classes, and for 40 hours per month there will be a Resident Services Coordinator available to the tenants.