Celebrate safely in Mesquite

In advance of July 4th, the City of Mesquite will aggressively address the illegal possession or use of fireworks, as well as celebratory gunfire and driving while intoxicated. During Independence Day weekend, there will be escalated enforcement with deployment of police and fire staff into neighborhoods. Learn more at www.cityofmesquite.com/CelebrateSafely.

Redesign of Lucas Boulevard to improve traffic and trail system

The Mesquite City Council has approved a contract with Zachry Construction Corp. to reconstruct Faithon P. Lucas Sr., Blvd. The roadway will be realigned and reconstructed from the existing two-lane section to a four-lane divided section from McKenzie Road to East Cartwright Road. The estimated total cost of the project is $25 million. The design will also include a 12-foot hike and bike trail along the north side of the roadway that connects to the City’s master trail system to the future Solterra master-planned residential development. The project also includes storm sewer, water line, and sanitary sewer upgrades. In addition, a new bridge section will be constructed for eastbound lanes. Construction is set to begin in August.

June sales tax receipts

The City of Mesquite June sales tax receipts, which represent sales activity for the month of April, was 0.64 percent above the amount reported for the same period last year.  The current increase in sales activity is driven primarily by building and home furnishings, food and beverage establishments, and manufacturing.  Sales tax contributes 27 percent of the total revenue used to support the General Fund.   The City uses the General Fund for services including police, fire, parks and recreation, libraries, neighborhood services and public works.

July is Parks and Recreation month

Celebrate Parks and Recreation month by visiting Mesquite parks, pools, and recreation centers. Share your pictures with us by using the hashtag #MesquiteParksandRec. There is a wide variety of activities for all ages to enjoy throughout the month. Visit www.cityofmesquite.com/July for more information.

Luau Pool Party on July 14

Mesquite Parks and Recreation will host a Luau Pool Party from 7 to 9 p.m. on Friday, July 14, at City Lake Aquatic Center, 200 Parkview St. This free event will offer swimming, fun games, and prizes. The performance of a live hula show with a fire dancer will also be featured. Event capacity is limited to 500 people due to pool restrictions. Visit www.cityofmesquite.com/LuauPoolParty for more information. 

Spread the Love campaign launched

The City of Mesquite has launched its annual Spread the Love campaign to help feed children in need over the summer break. Residents are encouraged to donate jars of peanut butter and jelly during the collection campaign which runs through Labor Day, Sept. 4. This year, the City also is calling for donations of alternative butters that are safe for kids with nut allergies, such as sunflower seed butter or pumpkin seed butter. Donations are being collected at four locations:

• George A. Venner, Sr. Municipal Center, 1515 N. Galloway Ave.
• Mesquite City Hall, 757 N. Galloway Ave.
• Main Library, 300 W. Grubb Drive
• North Branch Library, 2600 Oates Drive

The City partners with Sharing Life Community Outreach to distribute the food collected. Visit www.cityofmesquite.com/SpreadTheLove for more information.