Mesa’s vintage signs will light up again in downtown area
The community space will feature restored neon signs from Mesa businesses dating from the 1940s to 1970s.
MESA, Ariz. — Vintage neon signs dating back several decades are being put back on display in a new community space near downtown Mesa that pays tribute to the city’s history.
City officials said the public is invited to attend next week’s lighting ceremony of Mesa’s new Neon Garden, located behind The Post near Main Street and Macdonald.
The space will feature six restored neon signs from Mesa businesses that have operated at various times over the last century.
One of the restored signs stood at Bill Johnson’s Big Apple restaurant on Main Street for decades before the sign was eventually donated to the Mesa Preservation Foundation. Another sign was positioned at Watson’s Flowers shop for several years before it collapsed during a windstorm in 2014.
“The Neon Garden is a one-of-a-kind space that beautifully blends art, history and community,” Mesa City Councilmember Jenn Duff said in a statement. “It’s a fantastic new gathering spot that brings Mesa’s past to life in a way that’s vibrant and fun for residents and visitors alike.”
City officials said the Neon Garden was partially funded by a 2018 bond approved by voters to support cultural infrastructure projects.
The lighting ceremony will take place on Thursday, May 15, at 7 p.m.
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