Inclusive Play at Desert Sky Park

At Gilbert, we believe every child deserves the chance to play, explore, and connect—regardless of ability. That’s why inclusive features are a central part of the new playgrounds and splash pad coming to Desert Sky Park Phase 2. These features are designed to remove barriers and create shared play experiences for children of all abilities, supporting physical, sensory, and social development in a welcoming environment.

Inclusive Features:

• An inclusive splash pad with sensory-rich water play elements like cannons and towers.
• A fenced playground with multi-level sensory zones, wheelchair-accessible slides and transfer platforms, ground-level play elements, flush-mounted rocking features, and balance and climbing structures designed for a range of abilities—all connected by color-contrasted paths to support easier navigation for children with visual or cognitive differences.

Project Name: PR1322 Desert Sky Park Phase 2
Construction Timeline: Winter 2026 - Spring 2028
Construction Status: 10% Complete

More details including the project budget and funding sources are included in the Capital Improvement Plan at the link below. Project budgets are reviewed, updated, and published annually as part of the Town’s annual budget process by the Office of Management and Budget. 

Desert Sky Phase 2 officially began in January 2026. Access to existing park amenities will remain available throughout the construction period, with only minor disruptions. Any temporary impacts will be clearly communicated through the project webpage and onsite signage. 

What is the Desert Sky Park Phase 2 Project? 
Desert Sky Park Phase 2 is a joint effort with the Flood Control District of Maricopa County (FCDMC) and the Town of Gilbert to develop an additional 50 acres in the Rittenhouse Basin off of Power Road, south of Williams Field Drive. The basin will be designed to serve not only provide flood control and storm water retention, but also expand the Town of Gilbert's parks and recreation amenities. 

When does construction begin for Phase 2? 
Construction is expected to begin in Winter 2025. 

When will Phase 2 be open to the public? 
The design of Desert Sky Park Phase 2 is nearing completion. Once a construction timeline has been established, we will share this with the community.

Does Phase 2 include additional access points into the park from Power Road? 
Yes, additional access to the Park will be added along Power Road within the Phase 2 expansion scope of work. Minimal disruption to Power Road is expected during construction. 
 
How will the expansion effect the operation of the current Park access and amenities? 
The current park will remain open during the majority of construction, with some planned closures for utility tie-ins, including the expanded irrigation system. All access restrictions or impacts to regular operations will be planning well in advance and communicated to the community.