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February 2026
Dear District 5 Neighbors,
February is an amazing time to be a resident of Mesa with beautiful weather and many exciting events. The year begins with activity, progress and opportunity. I’m excited to share several highlights and updates happening right here in District 5 and across our city.
The Mesa Marathon returns on February 14, bringing runners, families and visitors together for a celebration of health, endurance and community spirit. Mesa’s Transportation and Public Safety teams are working hard to keep everyone safe and minimize traffic disruptions. Read on for updates and information you may need as a runner, spectator or commuter navigating the day of the event. February also marks the return of Major League Baseball spring training, and we look forward to welcoming fans as the Chicago Cubs and Oakland A’s take the field here in Mesa. This month is also the perfect time to enjoy all that Mesa Parks and Recreation has to offer. Registration is now open for the 2026 spring season, with a wide range of programs and activities designed for all ages and interests. I encourage you and your family to take advantage of these wonderful opportunities.
As our city continues to grow and evolve, Mesa has implemented new e-bike ordinances aimed at improving safety for riders, pedestrians and drivers alike. These updates are part of our ongoing commitment to ensuring our streets and shared-use paths are safe and accessible for everyone. Please take the time to review the new rules before your next ride.
Finally, I’m excited to see continued progress on important infrastructure projects in District 5. Safety improvements to Hampton Avenue between Crismon Road and Signal Butte Road are now complete. Pedestrians, cyclists and motorists will enjoy a new pedestrian crossing, bike lane striping and signage and new pavement with epoxy marking to improve visibility and durability. The Red Mountain Shared-Use Path is also moving into its final phases, with the full project, including landscaping, planned to wrap up in spring 2026. We appreciate your patience during the construction of projects like these that make Mesa safer and easier to navigate.
Thank you for being an engaged and supportive part of our Mesa District 5 community. As always, please feel free to email me at district5@mesaaz.gov with questions, concerns or ideas.
Sincerely,
Councilmember Alicia Goforth
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Mesa Marathon Returns Saturday, February 14, 2026
Ranked #1 – Best Marathon in Arizona in a nationwide poll by RaceRaves, the Mesa Marathon is an early-season Boston Qualifier. Beginning February 7, residents can call or email Mesa’s Temporary Traffic Control Team using the contact details below to leave feedback about the event and get customized one-on-one rerouting assistance. You can also view the interactive detour map to help navigate the route closures.
Temporary Traffic Control Team:
480-786-6372
barricades@mesaaz.gov
New E-bike & E-scooter Rules Take Effect Feb. 11
Beginning February 11, 2026, Mesa will allow Class 1 and Class 2 e-bikes and e-scooters in City parks and shared-use (canal) paths where traditional bicycles are allowed. These updates are intended to improve safety and clarity as use of these devices continues to grow across Mesa.
Key rules to know:
- Speed limit: 5 MPH in parks, 15 MPH on paths
- Age requirement: Riders must be 16 or older (already state law)
- Helmets: Required for riders under 18
- Where riding is allowed: Shared-use paths (including canal paths) and sidewalks within parks
- Where riding is not allowed: Playgrounds and park amenities such as benches, tables, and turf areas
- Right-of-way: Riders must yield to pedestrians and people using mobility devices
Parks & Recreation Spring Registration is Open
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Registration for Spring activites is now open for both Mesa residents and non-residents. View the PLAYBOOK, apply for discounts and register today!
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 Mesa Receives $3.1 Million Federal Grant to Make Streets Safer
The City of Mesa has been awarded $3.1 million in federal funding to make some of its busiest intersections safer for drivers, pedestrians and cyclists. The grant, awarded through the U.S. Department of Transportation's Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) program, will support Mesa's SafeTurn Initiative, which focuses on reducing serious crashes at eight high-risk intersections across the city.
SBA Extends Deadline for Federal Disaster Loans
Was your home, business or non-profit affected by storm damage last October? The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has announced a 60-day extension to apply for low-interest federal disaster loans related to the Oct. 10–13, 2025 remnants of Hurricane Priscilla and Tropical Storm Raymond. Businesses, private nonprofits, homeowners and renters in Maricopa County may now apply for Physical Damage Loans by March 13, 2026. Businesses and nonprofits may also be eligible for Economic Injury Disaster Loans to cover expenses like payroll and rent that could not be paid due to the storms.
For more information or application assistance, contact the SBA Disaster Loan Outreach Center by phone at (800) 659-2955 or by email at disastercustomerservice@sba.gov.
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 Advisory Boards & Committees Open House
Serving on a board or committee is a great way to contribute your experience, perspective and passion to the community. The City of Mesa invites residents to learn more about serving on one of its Advisory Boards or Committees at an upcoming Open House:
Date: March 3, 2026
Time: 4:00 – 6:00 p.m.
Location: The Post 26 N. Macdonald, Mesa
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The Mesa Library team is collecting Valentine’s cards for homebound seniors and assisted living residents. Join us for a valentine-making session near you:
Monday, Feb. 2, 4-6pm at the Gateway Library
Tuesday, Feb. 3, 4-6pm at the Dobson Ranch Library
Friday, Feb. 6, 3-5pm at the Main Library
Monday, Feb. 9, 4-6pm at the Red Mountain Library
Not able to make it but want to participate? Make your own at home or buy Valentines and bring them to our Main, Dobson, Gateway, or Red Mountain locations between Feb 2-7. Last year we collected nearly 1500 cards filled with warmth and kindness. Library volunteers delivered them just in time for Valentine's Day!
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Civil Air Patrol Groundbreaking at Falcon Field
It was an honor to join community partners at Falcon Field for the groundbreaking of Civil Air Patrol’s new facility. This project strengthens a proud aviation legacy in Mesa while creating new opportunities for youth leadership, emergency preparedness and public service.
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Advance Red Mountain Ranch Community Day
Thank you to the Red Mountain Ranch community for welcoming me to your HOA’s Community Day — it’s always valuable to hear directly from residents about what’s working and what needs attention. I appreciated the chance to connect with neighbors and share a few District 5 updates and resources.
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Mesa-East Valley Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Parade
I was grateful to take part in Mesa’s Martin Luther King Jr. Parade and celebrate a legacy of service, courage and community. Dr. King’s message still challenges us to keep building a city where dignity, opportunity and belonging are real for everyone.
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Mesa Historic Home Tour
I enjoyed stopping by the Mesa Historic Home Tour and visiting the Ponderosa II house — a great reminder that Mesa’s story is built one neighborhood at a time. Thank you to the volunteers and homeowners who help preserve the character and history that make our community special.
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Mesa PD Promotions and Awards Ceremony
I was proud to attend the Mesa Police Department’s Promotions and Awards Ceremony and recognize the professionalism and leadership of the men and women who serve our city. Congratulations to those promoted and honored and thank you to your families for the support you provide behind the scenes.
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Paramedic Graduation
Congratulations to Mesa Fire & Medical’s newest paramedics and the regional partners who completed this rigorous program. Earning the paramedic patch takes skill and dedication and our community is safer because of your commitment to serve.
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Lehi Annual Trail Ride
I was glad to join Mayor Freeman and Councilmember Adams for the Lehi Annual Trail Ride, a special Mesa tradition that celebrates our western heritage and the community spirit that keeps it alive. Thank you to the organizers and volunteers who made this event possible year after year.
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It was exciting to celebrate the ribbon cutting for Hadrian’s new facility in Mesa — another strong signal that advanced manufacturing is growing here in the East Valley. Projects like this bring high-quality jobs and new opportunities for local talent while strengthening Mesa’s role in the industries shaping the future. |
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Mesa has projects in all stages of the development process from planning to construction. Our Active Development Map offers you the chance to take a look at the latest Mesa projects coming to a street near you. Each project overview includes the location, project acreage, and the planned use. Take a tour today by clicking the map below.
Development Pre-Submittals
Did you know every new development in Mesa starts with a pre-submittal application? This helps clarify important next steps in the development process and offers valuable insight for residents, too. You can learn more about the pre-submittal conference process, view recent applications below, or explore more detail through our publicly accessible DIMES portal.
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Tuesdays thru Fridays – Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Walk-Ins
10:00 a.m.–2:30 p.m. • Red Mountain Library, Roadrunner Room (635 N Power Rd)
IRS-certified volunteers from Mesa United Way provide free basic tax prep and e-filing for qualifying residents; additional dates and locations available.
February 7 – S’mores and MORE at Falcon Field Park
5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. • 4800 E. Falcon Drive
Join us for a fun evening outdoors filled with s’mores, hands-on campfire skills, and star gazing under the night sky. Enjoy learning the basics of building a campfire, relaxing by the fire, and entering to win raffle prizes. Perfect for all ages!
February 7–8 – Mesa Historical Museum: Annual Book Sale Fundraiser
Sat 8:00 a.m.– 4:00 p.m.; Sun 8:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m. • Mesa Historical Museum
Explore over 50,000 gently used books, DVDs, and CDs spanning more than 20 categories, all available at incredible bargain prices. Pricing starts at just $1 for paperbacks and $2 for hardcovers. Rare and unusual books are priced separately. On Sunday, items will be half-price.
February 13 – Downtown Mesa Sunset Market
5:00 p.m.–8:00 p.m. • Main St & Macdonald
Join us in vibrant Downtown Mesa for an unforgettable evening. Explore Main & Macdonald Streets, where local vendors will showcase unique, handmade treasures. Stroll through your favorite downtown shops, savor delicious dinners, sip on refreshing drinks, and share the experience with friends. Don’t miss this perfect blend of shopping, dining, and fun!
February 13 – Mesa Contemporary Arts Museum: Spring Exhibition Opening 7:00 p.m • Mesa Arts Center (1 E Main St)
Mesa Contemporary Arts Museum celebrates the opening of five new free spring exhibitions exploring the depth and diversity of contemporary craft, alongside a season of free public programs designed to engage audiences of all ages.
February 14 – Mesa Marathon
4:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m. • Finish at Riverview Park (2100 W Rio Salado Pkwy)
One of Arizona’s fastest and most scenic races returns with full, half, and 10K distances. Whether you’re lacing up or cheering from the sidelines, come enjoy the electric atmosphere as runners make their way to the Riverview Park finish. Expect morning traffic impacts along the course—plan extra time and come support our athletes!
February 16 – Mesa Fallen Firefighter Memorial Service
8:30 a.m. – 9:30 a.m. • Mesa Firefighter Memorial Park (305 E. 2nd St.)
Please join us for this solemn ceremony honoring Mesa Firefighters who have died in the line of duty.
February 19, 26 – Out To Lunch Concert Series
12:30 p.m. • Mesa Arts Center campus We’re excited to announce the return of our extended outdoor concert series this spring! In celebration of America 250, this season's Out to Lunch lineup features a wide variety of musical genres that highlight the evolution of American music and culture.
February 20 – Teen Dodgeball @ Red Mountain Center
6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. • 7550 E. Adobe St.
Enjoy an evening of dodgeball at the Red Mountain Center, where participants can take part in friendly competition and enjoy drinks and snacks.
February 21 – Arizona Baseball Museum Grand Opening
10:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. • Lehi Campus, Mesa Historical Museum
The historic Lehi Auditorium on the Mesa Historical Museum’s Lehi Campus has been transformed into the Arizona Baseball Museum, opening just in time for Spring Training 2026. Join us for a full day of celebration as we officially welcome the public into this exciting new museum space.
February 7, 21 – Mesa Feastival at Pioneer Park
5:30 p.m.–9:00 p.m. • Pioneer Park (526 E Main St)
Food trucks, live music and boutique vendors—bring chairs, friends and an appetite.
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February Council Meetings
February 9, 2026 5:45pm
February 23, 2026 5:45pm
February Study Sessions
February 5, 2026 7:30 am
February 9, 2026 5:15pm
February 12, 2026 7:30 am
February 23, 5:00pm
*Meetings subject to start time changes
The Mesa City Council holds two Council meetings a month, in addition to weekly study sessions. Learn more about the process for public participation in meetings. City Council and advisory board meetings will operate on a hybrid system.
Mesa broadcasts its council and study session meetings live on Mesa Channel 11's YouTube page and Facebook.
Council agendas.
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