While Scottsdale may appeal to the “urban cowboy,” Gilbert preserves the true essence of the grassroots farming and ranching communities of the past. Once a center for cattle, sheep, dairy, and other agri-business, Gilbert was known in the World War I cavalry days as the nation’s “hay shipping capital.” As one of the driving forces behind the East Valley’s population surge, Gilbert experienced phenomenal growth in the latter decades of the 20th century. Between 1980 and 1990, the municipality claimed Arizona’s growth record for that decade by quintupling its population. Within recent years, hundreds of employers have relocated their businesses to this booming community, adding thousands of jobs to the diverse economic base. Equestrians will appreciate the attractive horse properties or the mini-ranches that are available in a town that annually hosts one of the largest rodeos in the entire nation. The annual Gilbert Days celebration kicks off with a magnificent parade, followed by three days of nonstop rodeo thrills and spills. Ideally positioned to accommodate further residential and commercial growth, the Gilbert area has the advantage of civic leaders who recognize the value of preserving recreational and open space such as the prime 40-acre site for recreation, rodeo, and equestrian events. The cooperative effort between the city planners and members of the local business community guarantees Gilbert’s place as one of the outstanding business and living environments in the entire Southwest. This progressive attitude also encourages the continued development and expansion of quality educational, healthcare, retail, and recreational amenities.
Athletic fields, tennis courses, golf courses, and bridle trails are scattered throughout the area; while Freestone Park provides 65 acres of bicycle and jogging paths, playgrounds, picnic areas, and lighted softball fields. Area residents can attend horse shows, pursue adult education courses, or cast a fishing line in Freestone’s stocked lakes. They can also hike, bicycle, and horseback ride along miles of well-maintained local trails. With its reputation for outstanding services and efficient local government, Gilbert will be reinforcing its reputation as a “Community of Excellence” for decades as the new millennium continues to unfold.
GILBERT MASTER-PLANNED COMMUNITIES
Power Ranch, Power & Queen Creek Roads, Gilbert. http://www.powerranch.com/ Creating an intimate small-town atmosphere for family living, residential villages enjoy a large community park, sparkling lake, and elaborate clubhouse.
Val Vista Lakes, East Lakeside Drive, Gilbert. http://www.valvistalakes.org/ Residents of this family-oriented enclave enjoy exceptional recreational amenities that include spacious sports parks, bicycle paths, lagoon swimming pool with beach, and a multi-million-dollar clubhouse filled with sports facilities.
