Gilbert Fire and Rescue Lifts Evacuation Order at 1111 North Gilbert Road After Emergency Shoring is Installed

GILBERT, Ariz. - Gilbert Fire and Rescue has lifted the evacuation order for the property at 1111 North Gilbert Road following the completion of emergency shoring work and verification from the project's structural engineer that the building is now stable.

Earlier this month, Gilbert Fire and Rescue ordered a full evacuation after identifying separation in load-bearing walls and significant foundation-related issues that indicated structural instability and posed immediate life/safety concerns. Due to the severity of the conditions, the property was quickly secured with perimeter fencing, and all access to the building was restricted.

Shortly after the building was deemed unsafe, structural engineers assessed the property and issued an emergency shoring letter confirming that multiple structural elements posed a life/safety hazard and required immediate stabilization. A qualified contractor, hired by the property owner and tenants, installed the necessary shoring, including metal poles visible from the outside that are secured to the structure and to large 2,000-pound concrete blocks using heavy lag bolts. After a final site inspection, Starling Engineering provided written approval confirming that the building is stable under the newly installed supports.

With this certification in hand, Gilbert Fire and Rescue removed the safety fencing today and authorized tenants to resume occupancy.

"Our first priority is always the safety of the people in our community, and we appreciate the patience of the impacted tenants and businesses throughout this process," said Gilbert Fire Chief Rob Duggan. "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."

Town staff remains available to assist tenants as they transition back into 1111 North Gilbert Road. Businesses seeking additional support may continue to contact Gilbert's Economic Development team at [email protected].

The Town of Gilbert is committed to safety throughout all phases of this process and will continue to work with the property owner as additional inspections will be needed until permanent repairs are done.