Game-Changing Federal Funding: Transforming Lives and Securing Futures

In Mesa, Arizona, a significant shift is occurring in how the community addresses mental health crises. Traditional first responders, such as police officers, may not always be the best equipped to handle these situations. An encounter with law enforcement can escalate tensions, even with the most well-trained officers.

With funding from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), Mesa has started embedding behavioral health experts within 911 dispatch centers and field response teams. Since late 2022, this initiative has successfully diverted over 8,000 calls away from police and fire services, allowing these first responders to focus on their primary duties. This approach has positioned Mesa as a national leader in crisis response.

Mayor John Giles, a Republican, has voiced strong support for the federal investments from the Biden administration that have contributed to this progress. He emphasizes that building a resilient community sometimes means setting aside political differences to support beneficial initiatives.

In addition to mental health response, ARPA funds have enabled Mesa to convert the Grand Hotel property into an emergency shelter. This facility will offer temporary housing and services to unsheltered families, seniors, and victims of domestic violence. It will also serve as a cornerstone for the city’s Off the Streets program, aimed at connecting homeless individuals with emergency housing and comprehensive support services.

The benefits of federal investments extend beyond these social services. Mesa was recently awarded $11.8 million to install 48 electric vehicle charging stations. This initiative will triple the number of charging stations in underserved communities and support the city’s growing ecosystem of electric vehicle manufacturers.

Federal funds have also facilitated the expansion of Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport, including a new terminal and a state-of-the-art air traffic control tower named after John S. McCain III. Additionally, a $16 million grant from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law will extend the Tempe Streetcar more than four miles into Mesa, a project championed by Congressman Greg Stanton and pivotal for developing a regional streetcar system.

Mayor Giles insists that local leaders must prioritize their communities’ needs over political ideologies. According to him, these federal investments are transforming lives and positioning Mesa for future success.

John Giles is the mayor of Mesa, Arizona.