Gilbert strip mall businesses forced to shut down, evacuate due to structural instability

Multiple businesses at a Gilbert strip mall were ordered to shut down and evacuate after inspectors determined the building was unsafe.

It’s unclear how long they will have to stay out.

Gilbert Fire and Rescue informed the owner of 1111 N. Gilbert Road about the safety hazard Monday. Tenants were instructed to gather essential belongings and vacate the retail center on the east side of Gilbert Road just south of Houston Avenue, between Guadalupe and Baseline roads.

The strip mall was built in 1986, according to LoopNet. It is home to multiple businesses, including Cafe De Bangkok, Jeannie’s Grooming, TLC Wash N Clean and Tokers Vape & Smoke.

Jeannie’s Grooming addressed the situation in a Facebook post Wednesday.

“This is deeply devastating for all of us. You, our customers, are our heart and soul and we extend our deepest apologies for the inconvenience this unbelievable situation has surely caused. We are meeting with the city today to hopefully obtain more information. We will share updates as we receive them,” the business said.

Why did fire department shut down Gilbert strip mall

According to the city, the fire department identified issues with load bearing walls and the foundation during multiple inspections.

The owner must complete the repairs necessary to meet safety standards before businesses can reopen. Individual tenants might be allowed to return on a case-by-case basis as repairs are made and approved.

For now, the entire site is being fenced off.

“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,” Gilbert Fire Chief Rob Duggan said in a statement. “We recognize this is a hardship for tenants and businesses, and we are committed to supporting them through this process while ensuring the property meets every required safety standard before anyone returns.”

The Gilbert Chamber of Commerce and the town’s Office of Economic Development team are partnering to provide assistance to the displaced tenants.

Impacted businesses can get more information by emailing econdev@gilbertaz.gov.

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