| Gilbert
is an outlying farming and residential community.
Among the top
ten fastest-growing communities in the nation, Gilbert
has doubled its population every five years since
1980. Even so, the town has met the many challenges
of preserving the small-town atmosphere while promoting
high-tech industry and progressive planning for the
future.
Gilbert is proud of a lifestyle
that focuses on raising a family, quality education,
leisure activities and a booming business community.
The sense of community is important, which is evidenced
by strong public involvement and the fact that Gilbert
is still incorporated as a "town", not a "city".
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 The
town has successfully woven its agricultural heritage into
a diverse economic tapestry that now includes strong retail
and manufacturing sectors. This has resulted in the highest
median household income in the area, over $68,000. The average
age of GilbertŐs residents is 30 years. New residents find
that homes are still very affordable, they donŐt have to
commute to find work, and the feel of the town is still
small and friendly.
Insulated from the frantic pace of metropolitan
Phoenix, Gilbert offers many amenities. A village concept
of planned communities includes parks, equestrian trails,
fishing, boating, and local business services all within
walking distance. Gated communities, as well as equestrian
properties, are available in Gilbert.
Gilbert is flourishing with many new communities.
 The
town has successfully woven its agricultural heritage into
a diverse economic tapestry that now includes strong retail
and manufacturing sectors. This has resulted in the highest
median household income in the area, over $68,000. The average
age of GilbertŐs residents is 30 years. New residents find
that homes are still very affordable, they donŐt have to
commute to find work, and the feel of the town is still
small and friendly.
The town incorporated in 1920 with 500 citizens.
Between 1980 and 1990 its population quintupled, making
it the fastest growing town in Arizona. By 2010, the population
is projected to exceed 200,000.
 Within
the past five years, more than 400 employers have relocated
to Gilbert, bringing 3,000 new jobs. In addition to this,
a redevelopment plan completed in 1991, calls for an influx
of shopping galleries and entertainment attractions.
About 65% of Gilbert's land is being utilized
for residential and commercial use, allowing plenty of space
for expansion. All this expansion must fit within the guidelines
of the General Plan, which was adopted in 1994 to guide
Gilbertâs booming growth.
The city's community recreation programs include
such activities as Little League soccer and adult softball.
Horse shows and adult education courses are available, as
well as fishing in Freestone Parkâs stocked lakes. The Salt
River Project and the Roosevelt Water Conservation District
maintain many miles of canal banks as well as hiking, biking
and horseback riding trails.
 Annual
Gilbert Days celebrations kick off with one of the largest
parades in the state. For three days, IPRA Rodeo events
are held. For music lovers, Concert in the Park events provides
outdoor music from September through June.
Gilbert also has a Community Action Program
(CAP) that promotes individual and community self-reliance
by meeting the social and economic needs of low income and
elderly households in the community. CAP provides many services,
both in Gilbert and Higley, such as energy assistance, food
boxes and financial aid. Counseling and referral services
include job training and employment assistance for the unemployed.
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