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Coyotes eye new home in Arizona, ask fans where they want arena built

The Coyotes are now reportedly considering a site in Mesa near Fiesta Mall to keep the team in Arizona long-term.

Jeff Simmons
·Contributing Writer
·2 min read

The Coyotes are still looking to secure a long-term place to play in the state of Arizona.

Days after the City of Tempe voted against development plans for a new arena, a fallback option appears to have emerged, as the Coyotes are now considering a site in Mesa near Fiesta Mall, according to a report from Dennis Welch of AZfamily.com.

Fiesta Mall opened in 1979 and features a location that is easily accessible and in a relatively central, East Valley location.

Per ArizonaSports.com, the city of Mesa released a statement following Welsh’s report:

“For years Mesa has supported the redevelopment of the Fiesta District,” the city said. “Aside from being a key site for the District, Fiesta Mall is one of the most attractive pieces of urban real estate in the Valley today. It is massive, adjacent to three major highways and only 20 minutes from two major airports.

“We look forward to working with the property owner on proposals to bring diverse uses to the Fiesta Mall site and long-term sustainable and vibrant economic activity to the Fiesta District.”

The Mesa option would require a public vote, similar to what occurred with Tempe.

The Coyotes have asked their fans where they want to see a new arena built. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)
The Coyotes have asked their fans where they want to see a new arena built. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images) (Getty Images)

The Coyotes played this past season at Mullett Arena, sharing the complex with the Arizona State University Sun Devils, and have a contract to play at the arena through the 2024-2025 season. The team confirmed to season ticket holders earlier this week that it would be using the venue next season.

"While we are very disappointed Tempe voters did not approve the proposed Entertainment District, we want to thank all our loyal fans who supported the Coyotes over the years. Your loyalty is what makes our Pack strong," Coyotes president and CEO Xavier A. Gutierrez wrote in a letter to the fans.

"During the 2023-24 season, the Arizona Coyotes will play at Mullett Arena. In addition, we remain committed to Arizona and have already started re-engaging with local officials and sites to solidify a new permanent home in the Valley.

The Coyotes also released a poll via social media on Thursday, asking supporters where they would like to see a new arena built in Arizona. Hockey fans had a field day with their responses to the tweet, poking fun at the team and mentioning several out-of-state relocation options.