With a population of over 210,000, it may come as a bit of a surprise to find
out that Gilbert is still officially a town rather than a city. A population
of that size entitles most communities in the United States- and the
rest of North America for that matter- to city status, but it is a title
that has thus far not been bestowed upon Gilbert.
Fortunately, the lack of official recognition does not mean the residents of
this fine Arizona town lack the ability to make sure they has all a city of
this size would offer. In the last decade of the twentieth century, Gilbert
was actually the fastest growing community in all of Arizona- cities,
towns, or any other type! As a result, today's Gilbert boasts a wide variety
of people from all different cultural backgrounds. It's a Republican town,
but you will find plenty of environmentalists, families who use natural baby
products, and dedicated recycling programs.
The population base of Gilbert, combined with its proximity to several other
big cities in Arizona has meant that it has become somewhat of a haven for professionals.
A disproportionate number of lawyers, doctors, nurses, and other highly educated
people make their permanent homes in Gilbert. Some work in the town, while others
leave every morning, blackberry leather cases beside them on the passenger seat,
to work in Mesa, Phoenix, and other Arizona locations.
The professional makeup of the populace is reflected in both the business and
residential areas of town. There is not a lot of heavy manufacturing industry
in Gilbert, largely due to Arizona's relatively recent arrival on the
global consciousness. You will find several high tech and office based businesses,
however, places where you can purchase a gold mutual fund or schedule a computer
upgrade.
As you might expect in any town with as large a population base as Gilbert's,
the retail industry thrives. There are the usual assortment of restaurants,
from fine dining to take out and fast food joints. There are wedding planners
and boutiques, carrying the latest Maggie Sottero bridal lines and bigger names
as well. There are contractors, pool suppliers (the real kings of Arizona!),
and everything in between.
You will also notice the professional atmosphere in the makeup of the town
of Gilbert on the residential side. In many ways, it is what you would typically
picture in an Arizona community. Despite the cost of water in the area, growers
supplies stores are kept constantly busy as people seek to give their homes
in the desert an oasis like feel. Green lawns are framed by white picket fences,
and in each backyard is the life staple of Arizona real estate, the swimming
pool.
There is no doubt about it; Gilbert is one big town. It's also a place
with a professional atmosphere, where you can find virtually everything you
need in terms of a home, work, and services.
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