New community space opens on Main Street in Mesa

The Downtown Mesa Association in partnership with the city of Mesa announced the debut of a new community space that will be open seven days a week, according to a Monday press release.

The space, called the Yard Off Main, is a pedestrian plaza north of Main Street on Macdonald. A $72,000 grant provided by the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community made the project possible, according to a press release and information from the city.

“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 the release. “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.”

Advertised as a destination for those looking for “comradery and entertainment,” the Yard Off Main already has activities regularly scheduled from now through April with new events being added weekly, according to the release.

The full schedule for events can be found at DowntownMesa.com under the events tab at the Yard Off Main.

“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,” 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.”

The Yard Off Main will have events and activities taking place each day of the week featuring community members and local merchants. Those who just want to enjoy themselves at the park are also more than welcome, Madeksza said.

“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,” Madeksza said. “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 field trips at the museum. This is about creating a place for connection.”