Pioneer Park, the city of Mesa's oldest public park, originally opened in 1956, and during its heyday was known as 'the coolest park around.' Located at the east end of Mesa's downtown, and just east of the Mesa Drive Light Rail stop, the park is a critical open space for the community and is a key element of Mesa's downtown designated Innovation District.

In recent years, the park was under-utilized by the community and some of its historic monuments and attractions were showing wear. The iconic train engine that so many residents remembered from their childhood was fenced off and decaying. The original 'standard-issue' playground was not engaging neighborhood children. To address these issues, Mesa voters approved a Parks Bond package in 2012 and Pioneer Park was among the funding recipients for renovations.

The elevated walkway provides unparalleled accessibility, inviting exploration for all ages and abilities. It twists around play structures and bridges at different levels with pathways creating multiple loops and routes to foster an active imagination. The experience becomes a three-dimensional figure-eight that links play with the park's central spine, group ramadas, water plaza, and iconic shade canopy.

Reinforcing the amazing medley of old and new, revitalization and preservation, the park includes updates to two historic features. A monument to early settlers by the Daughters of the Utah Pioneers was made more engaging. And, thanks to the 'Save Our Train' committee who raised private funds, a major renovation to the historic Southern Pacific Engine #2355 was completed.

The park's original design recalled the City Beautiful movement with a central axial spine connecting two great lawns punctuated with a variety of shade trees. The historic layout was preserved and repurposed, with a new central water plaza and interactive light display that serves as a focal point from nearby Main Street. Reinvigorating the central walkway esplanade organized the park more powerfully, drawing people from one end to the other and providing a generous space for programmed activities at the core of the park.

Pioneer Park has served as a link between generations, engaging entire families while also encouraging movement and activity. Parents now proudly bring their kids back to the park they played in as a child. The layout encourages social interaction in a collective pursuit of fun, relaxation and camaraderie. Events are planned throughout the year, including the weekly food trucks on Saturday nights, the holiday Merry Main Street celebration, 'Celebrate Mesa' Earth Day, car shows, and movies in the park.

The renovated park was officially unveiled during a grand opening in December 2017. Today Pioneer Park is an iconic destination, restoring a sense of pride. The impacts of the park's renewed vitality anchor the eastern end of a redeveloping downtown.