Just for some (albeit old) reference, here are some photos of downtown Mesa taken in 2002. Based on the last time I was there, the built condition hasn't changed much. I know the Arts Center got built. Not sure where construction is at on the LRT extension into downtown Mesa, but current service ends 2-1/4 miles away on Main Street.
This is the tallest building in Mesa, the 16 story BofA Plaza, situated next to a practually dead mall about 3 miles from downtown.
To me Mesa is and always will be a place to for two kinds of people: Those who can't afford Tempe/Gilbert; and retirees who want to live near a major hospital but don't like things like property taxes and paying for social services. To be fair, it's a massive city no doubt. And the schools, at least on the eastern side, are decent. But I would never live out there. A guaranteed hellish commute on either the Superstition or 202, a total dearth of unique dining options with a couple of exceptions downtown, and very little natural beauty unless you start getting out towards Usury Pass / Red Mountain.
As a former East Valley kid, I don't think I could ever live east of the 101.