Preserving Gilbert's Heritage

I have posted often about the motivation behind the development of Morrison Ranch; we want to preserve the agricultural heritage of Gilbert while welcoming the inevitable growth. Thankfully there are many in Gilbert who share this desire, and there is an article in today's East Valley Tribune that discusses the Water Tower Park:

Preliminary plans for two downtown Gilbert parks include fountains, an amphitheater and the town’s historic water tower lighted with water flowing down into a reflecting pool.

Designs for the Water Tower Park and Western Powerline Trail Park were unveiled at the last of a series of community meetings that culminated Monday night.

During three previous meetings, neighbors and residents gave visions of what they’d like to see in the parks, which consultant J2 Design used in sketches released this week. The designs are preliminary but give residents a first glimpse at their future downtown, where town officials foresee farmers markets, festivals and concerts.

“It will be kind of nice to have someplace to go, instead of going to Tempe,” said Gilbert resident Patricia Fabunan. But, she added, “There definitely needs to be something sort of inviting you in, like historic signs.”

The Water Tower Park, now a fenced-off field on Vaughan Avenue west of Gilbert Road, will include a grassy amphitheater for shows or movies displayed on a retractable screen on the back of Norwood Furniture, where public art will be painted.

A glass wall of water will border the amphitheater. Behind, the historic water tower will be painted white, illuminated with lights, and water will flow down the center to a reflecting pool below.

The Mister is a big fan of the Water Tower project, and this sounds like a very attractive venue, with plenty of water features. I'm sure they will still accept donations, if you want to get in on that; the folks at Norwood Furniture are heading up the drive for private donations. Read the rest of the article for the details on the Powerline Trail park.