Gilbert Strip Mall Reopens After Emergency Evacuation Over Collapsing Foundation

A Gilbert strip mall is back open after inspectors found the building was falling apart

Businesses at a Gilbert shopping center near Gilbert and Guadalupe roads reopened Tuesday after an emergency evacuation that lasted more than two weeks. The closure began when fire inspectors discovered load-bearing walls separating from the foundation. Officials said the structural failures posed an immediate risk to anyone inside.

What inspectors found

During multiple inspections in early June, Gilbert Fire and Rescue identified separation in load-bearing walls and other foundation issues at the property at 1111 North Gilbert Road, according to a press release from the Town of Gilbert dated June 2.

"Our first obligation is always the safety of the people in our community. When structural concerns reach a level that poses an immediate risk, we have to act," said Gilbert Fire Chief Rob Duggan.

On June 1, the property owner was formally notified of the evacuation order. Tenants were told to collect essential belongings and vacate the premises, the town said. The perimeter of the strip mall was then fenced off and all access was restricted.

Emergency repairs stabilize the building

Shortly after the closure, structural engineers assessed the property and issued an emergency shoring letter. The letter confirmed that multiple structural elements posed a life and safety hazard and required immediate stabilization, according to the town.

A contractor hired by the property owner and tenants installed metal poles secured to the structure and to large 2,000-pound concrete blocks using heavy lag bolts, officials said. The supports were visible from the outside of the building.

Starling Engineering provided written approval after a final site inspection, confirming the building is stable under the newly installed supports, according to a town press release dated June 16.

Businesses return with questions

Gilbert Fire and Rescue removed the safety fencing and authorized tenants to resume occupancy on June 16, the town said.

"With the stabilization work now complete and engineering professionals confirming the structure is stable under the newly installed shoring, we have authorized tenants to return. We will continue coordinating with the property owner as they move into the next phase of repairs," said Duggan.

The town has not specified how many businesses were inside the strip mall or how long the permanent repairs will take. The town said additional inspections will be needed until permanent repairs are completed.

Town offers help to displaced businesses

Town staff and support resources are available to assist displaced tenants, the town said. In partnership with the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce, the town's Economic Development team offered no-cost help with immediate needs. That includes identifying available buildings and land, support with planning, permitting and licensing, labor market analysis, and community-based research, according to the June 2 press release.

Businesses seeking support can contact the Economic Development team at econdev@gilbertaz.gov.

Timeline of events

1. June 1: Property owner formally notified of evacuation order
2. June 2: Town issues press release confirming full evacuation and closure
3. June 3: Perimeter fencing installed; all access restricted
4. Early June: Structural engineers issue emergency shoring letter
5. Mid-June: Contractor installs shoring with metal poles and 2,000-pound concrete blocks
6. June 16: Starling Engineering provides written approval; evacuation order lifted; tenants cleared to reopen