PHX Reporter

East Valley leaders celebrated the opening of the new Gilbert Road Bridge, which began accommodating traffic earlier this month after over two years of construction. The bridge addresses aging infrastructure and aims to prevent flood closures during high water flows, facilitating travel between Mesa and Fountain Hills.

Chairman Thomas Galvin of the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors emphasized the bridge's role as a vital connection in the East Valley. "This bridge is a vital connection point in the East Valley between the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community (SRP-MIC), Mesa, Fountain Hills, North Scottsdale and beyond," he stated. Galvin highlighted that it represents successful governmental collaboration for regional development.

The event featured a blessing by Tribal Councilmembers and remarks from various officials, including Mesa Mayor Mark Freeman and Ed Zuercher from the Maricopa Association of Governments. A performance titled “Bird Singing and Dancing by the River” concluded the celebration.

Projections indicate that by 2035, approximately 30,000 vehicles will cross the bridge daily. In contrast, data from 2019 showed about 13,000 daily crossings on its predecessor built in 1990. Jesse Gutierrez from MCDOT assured that the new structure is designed to withstand strong river flows with pilings extending 100 feet into the ground.

In addition to flood prevention features, improvements include two northbound and two southbound lanes on Gilbert Road between Thomas Road and State Route 87. Mayor Freeman recalled past flooding issues: “Finally we have a rebuilt bridge that will serve our communities for decades."

New traffic flow enhancements involve a signal at Thomas Road's intersection with Gilbert Road and roads connecting to State Route 87. The project also includes a storm drain and waterline installation as part of SRP’s system for local water service.

Mesa Councilmember Rich Adams noted economic benefits for Mesa and surrounding areas due to improved connectivity via State Route 87. Funding sources included Arterial Life Cycle Funds from MAG, MCDOT Highway User Revenue Funds, SRP-MIC contributions, City of Mesa support, and SRP investments.

Chandler Mayor Kevin Hartke praised regional transportation funding through Proposition 400 while looking forward to future projects under Proposition 479: “And with Proposition 479 we will continue to see important transportation investments like these connect communities across our region.”

MCDOT acknowledged assistance from ADOT for providing detours during construction while appreciating public patience amid travel adjustments.