Learn More About Gilbert, Arizona
Background on Gilbert
Gilbert is located in Maricopa County, Arizona. This area is located Southeast of Phoenix and falls within the Phoenix Metro area. Many years ago Gilbert was known as the “Hay Shipping Capital of the World.” Gilbert is also the most populated incorporated town in all of the United States. As of 2017 Gilbert had more than 242,000 residents. Gilbert is also a little more than 68 square miles large. This town has many awards and accolades to it’s name. From the years 1990 until 2003 the United States Census Bureau named this town as the fastest growing municipality in the U.S. Then in 2008 Money Magazine named Gilbert as one of the best places to live within the United States. In 2009 Gilbert once again made the Census Bureau’s list when it was named as the 4th fastest growing municipality in the United States. It is also ranked as one of the top 25 cities in the United States. Gilbert is a great place to raise a family due to the safety the town offers.
Economy in Gilbert
As of 2013 these were the four major employers in Gilbert. The Gilbert Public Schools employed approximately 3,700 people, Banner Health employed just under 2,300 people, Mercy Gilbert Medical Center employed just shy of 1,300 people. Finally, the Town of Gilbert employed just under 1,200 individuals. There isn’t much data since then to show how much the numbers have changed but the four employers listed are four very vital professions that are very in demand and the employment has most likely grown substantially since the last poll was taken back in 2013.
Education in Gilbert
The Gilbert Unified School District has several schools within the district. There are twenty seven elementary schools which go from kindergarten through sixth grade. There are six junior high schools which accommodate students in grades seventh and eighth. Finally there are five high schools which are for students in ninth through twelfth grade.
Transportation and Roads in Gilbert
The Santan Freeway portion of Loop 202 is the one freeway that is primarily used by Gilbert. There is also a small portion of US 60 Superstition Freeway that is along the northern part of the town near Higley Road interchange. This road is better known as Exit 186. If you live in Gilbert you are within close proximity to the Phoenix Mesa Gateway Airport. This airport is located in East Mesa. In recent years a park and ride station was built in downtown Gilbert. Here you will find bus service and a commuter rail service. Most of the people in Gilbert get around by car or bike so there is virtually no need for any major forms of transportation. The percentage of households here in Gilbert that lack a car is less than 2 percent. Most households in Gilbert have at least two cars which makes for easy commuting without having to rely on bus or train service even though it is readily available.
Notable People from Gilbert
-Ryan Fitzpatrick, Quarterback for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers
-Ryan Leslie, Reality television personality, recording artist and producer
-Rick Woolstenhulme Jr, Drummer for alternative rock band Lifehouse
-Lindsey Stirling, Professional Violist, dancer and composer. She was also a finalist on ABC’s Dancing with the Stars.
Recreation in Gilbert
Discovery Park is definitely a place that you need to check out if you live in Gilbert. This 48 acre park opened back in 2006 and features several amazing amenities. There are two lakes for fishing that uses reclaimed water as well as a beautiful butterfly garden. There is also two lighted basketball courts, two sand filled volleyball courts, two multi use fields to do whatever your heart desires on as well as three lighted multi use fields so you can play even after the sun goes down. When you get hungry you can utilize one of the eight barbecue’s the park has to offer, just make sure to reserve them ahead of time. There is even an equestrian trail here. Discovery Park really has it all when it comes to outdoor activities. There is also the Cosmo Dog Park which sits on 17 acres and features a lake, pet drinking fountains, lighting for night time use and even two dog washing stations to wash your dog off after a long day at the park.
Summary
Gilbert has tons to offer, especially if you’re looking to relocate here with a family. This town is extremely safe and has easy access to airports and freeways when it comes to traveling. Don’t hesitate to check out this area if you’re thinking of moving to Arizona!
