The 545-foot Ocotillo Bridge is considered by town officials as a “statement piece” for motorists and makes a pricey statement for taxpayers too at an estimated $79 million for the entire project. (Town of Gilbert)
By Cecilia Chan | Gilbert Sun News
The Town wants to build the 545-foot-long Ocotillo Bridge in south Gilbert as a statement piece with all the bells and whistles as part of a project that will cost $79 million.
The bridge will cross over watercourses at Gilbert Regional Park to connect Ocotillo Road between Higley and Greenfield roads, improving response times for police and fire and giving a direct access to the 272-acre recreational amenity.
However, some residents are calling the town out for the expense.
“There was an option for four garish, outlandish fancy bridges,” said Terri Naddy, who spoke at a recent council meeting. “But I didn’t see an option for a plain one. You didn’t give the community an opportunity to spend less money.”
