(GILBERT) -- A new development in Gilbert’s historic Heritage District is drawing interest since its groundbreaking ceremony back in May of this year.
(PHOTO: TERI TRACY)
Local businesses in the downtown district have their eyes on the north as the initial construction phase gains traction.
The Heritage Park project aims to provide more activities and accommodations downtown. Lodging in the Heritage District is extremely limited, with sparse Airbnb options available; however, the closest hotels are far from walking distance for most travelers.
That will soon change.
In just two short years, the entire city block at Gilbert Rd. and Juniper Ave. will transform into a multi-use development offering contemporary apartments and a wide array of shops and dining establishments. Not long ago, this area was a vacant lot often used for weekend parking.
The general consensus surrounding the new development seems to be mixed. While some look forward to having more to do in the area within walking distance of other downtown amenities, some are concerned with the propensity of new businesses to lure revenue away from the existing shops and eateries that make up the current bulk of Gilbert’s beloved weekend destination.
A recent poll on the Nextdoor platform offered mixed feelings on the topic, which is expected to be ready for use in 2027.
(Photo: Heritagepark.com)
While the Heritage Park project will be a massive change to the general identity of the area, its website states that the development will offer “a welcoming, high-end mood” and will introduce a staggering 30 new businesses and 288 apartment homes designed by Novel.
Known for its diverse and high-quality cuisine options, Downtown Gilbert offers a fun and quaint experience that blends historical and artisanal elements. The ambiance of the Heritage District shines in its numerous small, locally owned businesses, which will certainly change as new establishments open, including restaurant companies such as Flagship Restaurant Group, which plans to install three of its concept restaurants, along with other yet unannounced eateries.
Though downtown Gilbert can be described as a peaceful, tight-knit community, its nightlife shines when the weekend comes around. Local spots such as OHSO Brewery, Culinary Dropout, and Zinburger thrive on the buzz of temperate weekend nights, which draw in crowds from around the valley and offer a cool tourist experience for passersby.
(Photo: discovergilbert.com)
It could be argued that these crowds already create a worrisome traffic situation, and that argument would likely face little pushback: the fact is that every weekend, every parking lot within a short walk is full, and the streets are packed with diners, shoppers, and tourists. The cozy downtown vibe of a two-way street is ideal for foot traffic on mild weeknights, but less ideal for large crowds during peak hours.
The question of traffic may be answered in part by the town’s proposed Ash Street Redevelopment Project, which has hit several roadblocks as the planning stage has progressed. This project, intended to streamline traffic flow throughout the district, has faced several rounds of backlash due to the obstruction of vital access to local resources.
(Photo: Teri Tracy)
While development continues on the downtown construction site, the town considers whether Heritage Park will be an advancement for the area or a detriment to the residents who live nearby, as well as the existing local businesses.
As for the current local businesses in the Heritage District, the future remains uncertain: will the increase in residential availability improve business, or will the bulk of it be absorbed by the new conglomerate of retail and dining?
If you have something to share about the issue, please contact me at tracy.t@lead4earth.org
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