Longbow Development Concept Study

A Development Concept Study is a planning effort that defines a shared vision for how an area could develop over time. It explores the desired mix of land uses, character, and development patterns based on community input and market conditions.

The study is used to:

• Communicate the community’s vision for the area
• Provide guidance to property owners, developers, and decision-makers
• Inform future planning efforts and policy discussions
• Highlight opportunities and support marketing of the area

Not a Final Development Plan: The concept study focuses on overall vision and direction for the area rather than detailed site design. It does not establish exact layouts, building plans, or final decisions about how individual properties will develop.

Not a Zoning Change or Entitlement: The study does not change existing zoning or grant development rights. Any future zoning requests or development proposals would require separate applications, review, and approval through the Mesa’s established processes.

Not a Commitment to Specific Projects: The development concepts created through this study are not commitments to future projects. They are intended to illustrate ideas and possibilities, and to guide future discussions rather than determine specific outcomes.

Not a Replacement for Future Public Input: The study does not replace future community engagement. There will be additional opportunities for public input as projects and decisions move forward.

Not a One Size Fits All Approach: The study is designed to be flexible. Different parts of the area may develop in different ways over time, based on location, opportunities, and community input.

The Longbow Development Concept Study follows three phases: learning from the community, working together to develop ideas, and finalizing development concepts.

Process

• Step 1 - We are here! Learn from the community - hear what's working, what's not, and what's possible.
• Step 2 - Big Ideas. Work with the community to develop and refine concepts and ideas.
• Step 3 - Development Concept. Finalize development concepts - how we'll move from ideas to action.

Next Steps

Timeline

• May - June 2026: Prepare concept-level plans
• June 2026: Share concepts and gather feedback
• August -  September 2026: Present final concepts

Following the April 29 meeting, the project team will review and synthesize input received from participants, including survey responses and small-group discussions. This feedback will help identify common themes, priorities, and areas of agreement.

Using this input, the team will develop concept-level diagrams and land use scenarios that reflect both community input and market considerations. These concepts are intended to illustrate different ways the area could evolve over time.

In mid-to-late June, the project team will return to the community to share these concepts and gather additional feedback. This step provides an opportunity to refine ideas, respond to questions, and better understand community preferences.

Based on this feedback, the concepts will be further refined in advance of a final presentation later this summer.

On April 29, 2026, we hosted a public focus group meeting with approximately 35 participants representing a diverse mix of community perspectives.

Attendees participated in a live Mentimeter poll to share input on priorities and ideas for the Study Area (View poll results(PDF, 508KB)). Following the poll, participants engaged in small-group discussions facilitated by staff, where they explored key questions about the future of Longbow. Feedback was captured through group conversations and written notes. 

Key Themes and Takeaways from Community Input

• Interest in creating a walkable environment that includes a mix of uses and a stronger sense of place
• Support for high-quality development with thoughtful design, while avoiding overly intense development
• Desire to reflect local identity and create experiences that attract people to the area
• Emphasis on open space, parks, and gathering areas that are integrated with surrounding development
• Concerns about uses that may not be compatible, as well as traffic, noise, and congestion
• A long-term vision that prioritizes walkability, expanded dining and services, and transitions in scale that fit the surrounding area

Community Meeting Photos

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Staff Presentation(PDF, 5MB)

Existing Conditions Poster Boards(PDF, 17MB)