Mesa Advances Water System Upgrades as Data Center Plan Moves Forward

Mesa’s focus on infrastructure and economic growth took center stage this week, with new movement on water system upgrades and a large-scale data center project.

Water System Modernization Underway

At its latest board update dated March 25, Mesa Water officials outlined progress on a comprehensive review of the city’s supervisory control and data acquisition system, commonly known as SCADA. The system monitors and manages critical water infrastructure across the city.

A consulting firm has officially kicked off work this month, gathering documentation and preparing for staff interviews and site visits. The goal is to modernize aging technology, improve reliability, and map out future upgrades.

The update also detailed ongoing testing of aging asbestos cement water pipes. Samples collected during repairs were sent to a lab in late February, with results expected in May. The findings could shape long-term replacement planning and capital budgeting decisions.

Together, the projects signal continued investment in core utilities as Mesa manages growth and rising infrastructure demands.

Re-Sized Data Center Project Clears Approval

Meanwhile, a re-sized data center development in Mesa has advanced through the approval process, drawing both support and concern from residents.

Supporters point to job creation, construction activity, and the city’s growing reputation as a technology and logistics hub. Mesa has increasingly attracted advanced industry projects, thanks in part to available land and power infrastructure.

Critics, however, have raised questions about long-term impacts on water and energy use, as well as utility costs. Data centers are known for high electricity demand, and residents are watching closely to see how future infrastructure upgrades and rate decisions may align with new industrial growth.

City leaders have emphasized that utility planning, including water reliability and system modernization, is designed to keep pace with both residential and commercial expansion.

As Mesa continues balancing economic development with infrastructure stewardship, the next few months will bring more clarity — particularly once water system testing results and additional project details are released.

Sources

https://www.mesawater.org/sites/default/files/2026-03/2026-03-25-board-packet.pdf
https://www.reddit.com/r/mesaaz/comments/1rwizkc/resized_data_center_in_mesa_sails_to_approval/