The Valley: Exploring the Largest Metropolitan Area in the Southwest

Located in the heart of the Southwest, Gilbert, Arizona, experienced a dramatic incident on Wednesday afternoon when a police vehicle overturned at the intersection of Power and Chandler Heights roads. The vehicle involved in the crash was identified as a K-9 unit from the Gilbert PD, which was en route to an emergency call in the area.

The collision, which also involved at least one other vehicle, resulted in the police car rolling over onto its roof. While the exact cause of the crash remains unclear, traffic in the area may be restricted as authorities investigate the incident.

Aside from such unexpected events, Gilbert is part of a larger network of cities that make up the Phoenix Metropolitan Area, affectionately referred to as “The Valley” by locals. This bustling metropolitan area includes major cities like Mesa, Chandler, Scottsdale, Tempe, and Glendale, among others.

According to the 2020 United States Census, the Valley is home to over 4.8 million people, making it the 11th largest metropolitan area in the country. One of the key features of this region is the distinction between the “East Valley” and “West Valley,” determined by their position relative to Phoenix.

Maricopa County, where Gilbert is located, is the 4th most populous county in the U.S., with over 4.4 million residents. The county covers 9,224 square miles, surpassing the size of several states. Known for its extensive park system, Maricopa County boasts around 120,000 acres of open space parks, offering residents and visitors a plethora of outdoor recreational opportunities.

As the seat of Maricopa County and the state capital of Arizona, Phoenix serves as a hub for cultural, economic, and recreational activities. The county’s rich history is reflected in its name, derived from the Maricopa Native American Tribe, honoring the region’s indigenous roots.