GILA BEND, Ariz. — The Gila Bend United Softball Field is much more than just a field.
It serves as a symbol of recovery for the Town of Gila Bend, a community that was devastated by a destructive monsoon flood two years ago.
“This is really a good thing for the whole community.” said Gila Bend Mayor Tommy Sikes.
It’s a symbol of the unwavering spirit of the Gila Bend community.
“We are rebuilding, we are coming back,” said Dr. Rob Varner, Superintendent of the Gila Bend Unified School District. “A lot of good things are happening here. A lot of positive things are happening here. And just getting over trauma takes time. I think just this is definitely a symbol, to remember those folks that that lost their lives, lost their homes.”
The softball field, located just south of Gila Bend High School, now stands as a testament to the relationships that were forged and renewed throughout Maricopa County.
“In times of crisis, you know, people either fall apart or they come together,” said Kathy Valenzuela, the town manager for Gila Bend. “I really feel like in terms of Gila Bend, we saw different partners come together as a community, and certainly something that speaks to kind of small-town America, which is what Gila Bend is."
The August 14, 2021 flood killed two people and stranded dozens on their rooftops, escaping the flood waters. More than 100 people were displaced after the flood. The Town of Gila Bend worked closely with Maricopa County, who freed up emergency funds to help the town clean up and rebuild.
Country Supervisor Steve Gallardo played a big part in the Gila Bend Unified Softball Field project.
“At the end of the day, it was a really traumatic experience, but I do think that some of the most meaningful things that came about as a result of that... those strengthened relationships, and just a true sense of community,” said Valenzuela.
The Gila Bend Unified Softball Field will be a place for the community to gather, reflect, and heal.
The Town of Gila Bend will host a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Saturday, Dec. 9 at 10 a.m. at the softball field at 777 North Logan Avenue, Gila Bend, AZ 85337.