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  • 📊 Gilbert Confronts Budget Challenges 🛣️ Traffic and crashes in metro Phoenix: How to check road conditions 📢 Local Business Spotlight ⛩️ Curtisi Co. and more...

📊 Gilbert Confronts Budget Challenges 🛣️ Traffic and crashes in metro Phoenix: How to check road conditions 📢 Local Business Spotlight ⛩️ Curtisi Co. and more...

Gilbert Local Pulse | Issue #037

Author

Lloyd Heath
December 12, 2023

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In this issue of Gilbert Local Pulse

🌤️ Gilbert, AZ Local Weather

 📅 Gilbert, AZ and Surrounding Area Events

 📊 Gilbert Confronts Budget Challenges in Key Capital Projects Workshop

 🚧 Revitalization in Progress: Gilbert's Water Tower Plaza Set for Major 2024 Upgrade

🛣️😡 Road Rage Tragedy: Two Dead in Fiery US 60 Collision

🛣️ Traffic and crashes in metro Phoenix: How to check road conditions

 👨‍💼 Gilbert-Based Footprint International Raises $829.5 Million for Green Tech Expansion

 🎄 Gilbert's Riparian Preserve Lights Up the Night with Holiday Cheer

🖼️ "Breaking Rules, Honoring Tradition": Chandler's Unique Art Quilt Display

 📢 Local Business Spotlight ⛩️ Curtisi Co.: Crafting Stories, One Handmade Piece at a Time in Gilbert

December Ongoing

December 12 - 19 Upcoming

Gilbert Confronts Budget Challenges in Key Capital Projects Workshop

In an effort to address the challenges posed by construction inflation and its impact on the town's budget, Gilbert's town council and staff members convened in a crucial workshop on December 11. This meeting was a pivotal step towards reevaluating the town's capital improvement projects, especially in light of recent financial constraints.

The workshop followed a concerning report presented at the council's annual strategic retreat last month, which revealed that the allocated funds for these projects had been significantly eroded due to rising construction costs. This financial strain was particularly worrisome as it was reported that Gilbert did not have sufficient funds to cover the planned projects for the upcoming fiscal year.

During the workshop, special attention was given to public safety projects critical for the police and fire departments, as well as initiatives for the parks and recreation department. These projects are not merely enhancements but are considered essential for ensuring the safety and quality of life of Gilbert's residents.

Additionally, the council and staff members discussed various strategies to fund these crucial projects. The urgency of finding effective funding solutions underscores the importance of these projects in maintaining and improving the town's infrastructure and community well-being.

Revitalization in Progress: Gilbert's Water Tower Plaza Set for Major 2024 Upgrade

In a significant move to enhance its urban landscape, the town of Gilbert has announced plans to upgrade the Water Tower Plaza located in the Heritage District. The upgrade, necessitated by the aging and outdated underground infrastructure of the plaza, will see a comprehensive overhaul of both the subterranean systems and the above-ground amenities. Constructed in 2007 and inaugurated in 2008, the plaza has reached a point where many replacement parts are obsolete, necessitating this upgrade.

As part of this initiative, the current amenities in the park area will be dismantled to accommodate the construction work, which is slated to commence in the summer of 2023. In an effort to align the redevelopment with community needs and preferences, Gilbert has launched a public survey, inviting residents to share their input on various aspects of the plaza's redesign. The survey covers topics ranging from preferred amenities to the layout of the pavilion, tree alignment, murals, and shade options.

The town aims to complete the project by the summer of 2024. However, the budget for this extensive upgrade is still in the planning stages and has not been finalized. Residents were encouraged to participate in the survey by August 21, allowing their voices to be a critical part of the plaza's transformation journey. Visit here for more details.

Road Rage Tragedy: Two Dead in Fiery US 60 Collision

In a tragic incident on Sunday evening, a high-speed collision at the US 60 Superstition Springs Boulevard exit resulted in two fatalities. Authorities report that the incident occurred around 7 p.m. and involved two vehicles engaged in a road rage incident on eastbound US 60. The crash led to one of the vehicles striking a concrete barrier and subsequently catching fire, leading to the deaths of both the driver and the passenger. The Arizona Department of Public Safety (DPS) has initiated an investigation into the crash through their Vehicular Crimes Unit. Criminal charges are anticipated as the investigation progresses.

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Traffic and crashes in metro Phoenix: How to check road conditions

Arizona511 over the phone

Arizona511 is a nationally designated, three-digit telephone number that provides traveler information across Arizona. It provides information on all Arizona Department of Transportation roadways; special event information; travel times on high-volume roads; transfers to local transit agencies; information and transfer options for state and national parks; border wait times; details for Amber, Blue and Silver alerts; and more.

Arizona travelers can reach the line by dialing 511 from anywhere in the state or dialing 1-888-411-ROAD (7623) if out of state.

AZ511 online

AZ511 also has a website that provides even more information on traffic. It includes traffic cameras, fastest routes and a map with information on crashes, closures, events and more. Users can visit az511.gov for a map of Arizona and its major roadways. The map allows users to see traffic speeds, crashes, roadwork, special events, traffic cameras and weather alerts.

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Gilbert-Based Footprint International Raises $829.5 Million for Green Tech Expansion

Yoke Chung CEO and co-founder of Footprint

Footprint International, headquartered in Gilbert, Arizona, and operating globally, has achieved a significant financial breakthrough by securing around $829.5 million in new equity investment. This fundraising, as reported to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, marks a pivotal moment for the company's growth and development strategies. Under the leadership of Chief Business Officer Stephen Burdumy, this capital will propel the company's aggressive expansion and enhance the pace of its innovative product development. Footprint International stands at the forefront of environmental sustainability, focusing on the elimination of single-use plastics through the development of bio-based reinforced polymers and advanced fiber-based packaging solutions. This investment underscores the company's commitment to pioneering eco-friendly manufacturing technologies.

Gilbert's Riparian Preserve Lights Up the Night with Holiday Cheer

Gilbert's beloved holiday event, "Riparian After Dark," returns, transforming the Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch into a festive wonderland. From December 8-19, visitors can wander 1.5 miles of beautifully lit trails each evening from 5:30 to 9:00 PM. Admission is $5 online or $10 at the event, with free entry for children under three. While enjoying the light displays, attendees can indulge in hot beverages from an on-site truck, though other food services are not available. Accessible by strollers and wheelchairs, the event also allows leashed pets. Alongside the festive cheer, the town collects pet supplies for local animal rescues.

"Breaking Rules, Honoring Tradition": Chandler's Unique Art Quilt Display

In the heart of downtown Chandler, the Vision Gallery unveils a captivating display, "Art Quilts XXVIII: Breaking Rules, Honoring Tradition," running through January 12. This exhibition showcases the inventive works of 40 artists, hailing from both local areas and across the nation, with the majority of the quilts available for purchase.

Shelly White, a seasoned fiber/mixed media artist and education specialist at Mesa Contemporary Arts Museum, curated this exhibit. Selecting from about 75 submissions, White chose 53 quilts based on their design, content, originality, and craftsmanship.

The exhibition's theme encouraged artists to creatively interpret various aspects, from physical techniques and materials to personal narratives and social commentaries. Apart from traditional quilting fabrics, artists also incorporated unconventional materials like wood, paper, and metal.

One of the standout pieces is by Chandler's own Laurie Fagen, titled "My Happy Place." This piece is a testament to Fagen's adventurous spirit, featuring a Kauai seashore photo transferred to fabric and enhanced with rayon threads, attached to a painted canvas.

Denise A. Currier's "Electrically Charged in Fiber" resonates with the theme of breaking rules. It uniquely incorporates computer parts and telephone cords, merging modern technology with traditional quilting.

Gilbert artist Linda McCurry contributes "Household Accounting," a quilt that explores the five universal shapes identified by Angeles Arrien. This piece delves into the multifaceted roles of women, using these shapes to symbolize their varied life experiences.

Caroline Hudson-Naef, the visual arts assistant for the City of Chandler, praises the show for allowing diverse interpretations, blending modern artistry with traditional quilting techniques.

This exhibition is among the most popular annual shows at the Vision Gallery, drawing in a wide audience with its unique blend of artistry during the holiday season.

For more details, visit the Vision Gallery at 10 E. Chicago St., Chandler, or check their website at visiongallery.org/event/art-quilts-xxviii-breaking-rules-honoring-tradition.

Curtisi Co.: Crafting Stories, One Handmade Piece at a Time in Gilbert

From Personal Need to Community Need:

GILBERT, AZ — In the heart of Gilbert, a local business, Curtisi Co., is redefining craftsmanship in furniture making, merging personalization with artisanal quality. Established two years ago, this enterprise evolved from a personal need into a burgeoning business under the hands of its founder, Caleb Curtisi.

Caleb Curtisi, Owner

A Journey of Craftsmanship and Collaboration

"It all started when we bought our house here in Gilbert," recalls Caleb, "and we just couldn't find the right dining table. So, I made one." This hands-on approach didn't stop at the dining table. As the Curtisi household grew, so did the range of furniture pieces, all crafted in-house.

Designing Dreams with Clients:

What sets Curtisi Co. apart is its commitment to the client's creative journey. Caleb works closely with customers, designing furniture that not only fits their spaces but also echoes their personal aesthetic. This collaboration extends beyond the design process, with Caleb sharing regular video updates from the shop, allowing clients to see their unique pieces come to life. Be sure to follow and check out Caleb’s Facebook and Instagram channel.

First Piece in the Journey

A Heart for the Community:

Despite its recent expansion to full-time operations, Curtisi Co. maintains its community roots. Regular giveaways in its newsletters and contributions to local school fundraisers exemplify its commitment to Gilbert's community spirit.

Connecting with Curtisi Co.:

For those interested in experiencing this blend of artistry and personalization, Caleb Curtisi is the man to contact. Reach out via email at [email protected], or call 1 (480) 406-9555. Explore their creations at www.curtisico.com and connect with them on Facebook and Instagram for the latest updates and inspirations. Stay in the know of Curtisi by subscribing to their monthly newsletter.


Curtisi Co. isn't just about furniture; it's about bringing personal stories to life, one piece of handcrafted furniture at a time. In Gilbert, where community and craftsmanship intertwine, Curtisi Co. stands as a beacon of local entrepreneurship and creative spirit.

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