#United States #Gilbert #Thompson Thrift #Gilbert AZ #The Gilmore

Thompson Thrift Breaks Ground on The Gilmore

In an exciting development for the Phoenix suburb of Gilbert, Thompson Thrift recently held a groundbreaking ceremony for The Gilmore, a major mixed-use community estimated at $225 million. This 35-acre project aims to blend residential living, retail spaces, and leisure opportunities into a vibrant, cohesive environment.

A Vision Realized

As Ashlee Boyd, Managing Partner at Thompson Thrift Commercial, noted during the ceremony, the event marks a crucial step in transforming the company’s vision into reality. The focus of The Gilmore is to create a space that caters to the evolving needs of the Gilbert community while also establishing a dynamic destination that draws people from all around the region.

Around the groundbreaking event, attendees enjoyed an array of presentations, including remarks from Gilbert Mayor Scott Anderson and various team members from Thompson Thrift. The celebration also featured refreshments courtesy of Outcast Doughnuts, a future tenant of The Gilmore.

Mayor Anderson expressed enthusiasm about the project, emphasizing that The Gilmore represents the community-oriented development that Gilbert seeks. “We’re proud to partner with Thompson Thrift on a project that not only brings high-quality housing and dynamic retail to our town, but also reflects the spirit of connection and innovation that makes Gilbert such a special place,” he stated.

Project Features

Strategically located at the northwest corner of Val Vista Drive and Germann Road, just off Loop 202, The Gilmore will encompass approximately 200,000 square feet of retail and dining establishments along with 300 luxury apartment units and a hotel. Notably, among the already signed leases is a substantial 64,000-square-foot Safeway, joined by several popular establishments including Better Buzz Coffee, Handel's Ice Cream, and Jersey Mike's. In total, over 25 leases have already been secured.

The residential aspect, branded as The Residences at The Gilmore, will feature 300 apartments in a variety of layouts, focusing on modern living spaces that average around 1,000 square feet.

Creating Community Connections

Thompson Thrift’s design philosophy for The Gilmore revolves around fostering connections among individuals, locations, and communal purposes. A Main Street-style entrance invites engagement, while covered walkways, appealing common areas, and outdoor spaces adorned with local art aim to enhance community interaction.

“Ultimately, The Gilmore is about connection—between people, places, and purpose,” said Andrew Call, Vice President of Development for Thompson Thrift’s Southwest Region.

Looking Ahead

Retailers are expected to open their doors in late 2026, with the first residents moving into The Gilmore by early 2027. With Gilbert’s reputation for being one of the most desired places to live—predicated by a focus on local businesses, a diverse economy, and reasonable living costs—The Gilmore is poised to be a significant part of the community’s ongoing growth.

Thompson Thrift’s ambitions don’t stop with The Gilmore; they are involved in several other notable projects throughout Arizona. Developments such as Elliot Tech Center in Mesa and Germann Commerce Center in Queen Creek exemplify the company’s commitment to investing in high-growth markets while providing quality mixed-use, retail, and industrial spaces.

Having made an impressive mark since it originated nearly 40 years ago, Thompson Thrift has contributed over $6 billion to local communities and has earned a reputation as a trusted partner in developing attractive commercial and multifamily communities across the Midwest, Southeast, and Southwest.

About Thompson Thrift

Thompson Thrift operates as a full-service real estate development firm with locations in various states across the U.S. Its business units include Thompson Thrift Residential, focusing on upscale multifamily housing; Thompson Thrift Commercial, dedicated to commercial and industrial developments; and Thompson Thrift Construction, a comprehensive construction service provider. Recently honored with the 2025 Top Workplaces USA award, the company continues to demonstrate its commitment to excellence in the community and workplace.

For more information about Thompson Thrift and their projects, please visit www.thompsonthrift.com.