NEWS RELEASE
USDA Forest Service
Coconino National Forest
Red Rock Ranger District

www.fs.fed.us/r3/coconino
For Immediate Release Contact: Connie Birkland (928) 284-5085
Date: February 20, 2007 or Judy Adams (928) 203-7506
 

Forest Service Considers Road Project near Oak Creek Cliffs Drive

The Coconino National Forest (CNF) is considering issuance of a road permit or easement for the purposes of road construction, maintenance and use to the owners of private property adjacent to Oak Creek Cliffs subdivision and the Chavez Crossing Group Campground in Sedona, Arizona. At this time, the Forest Service is beginning the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) process and is looking for comments on the proposal.

A public scoping open house will be held on March 7, 2007 from 4pm to 6pm at the Radisson Hotel, located at 1736 Highway 179. Displays will provide information on the proposal and the environmental consultant and Forest Service will be present to help answer questions and take comments. There will not be a formal presentation in this open house format.

The private landowners have submitted an application to construct an access road into private property on the west side of Oak Creek below Airport Mesa. The proposed road access would begin at Oak Creek Cliffs Drive near the intersection of State Route 179 then would travel somewhat parallel to SR179 to the southwest, turn west toward Oak Creek, crossing Oak Creek with a new bridge and then traveling back to the northwest to enter the west side of the 24-acre private property. This road would be a paved road that would meet City of Sedona subdivision requirements. The landowners have been attempting to obtain access to their property since 1993. Access through existing private land was denied through court action and subsequent Federal court action stated that the Forest Service should provide an easement by necessity to this property.

At this stage of the NEPA process, the Forest Service is gathering comments, issues and concerns related to this road access proposal to be considered as the environmental analysis moves forward. We are not evaluating the potential development on private land except the proposed road design is based on the current zoning and development requirements. Although comments are welcome at any time, they will be most effective if received by April 6, 2007. A mailing list for this project will be created from those indicating interest.

Comments may be provided at the open house meeting or may be sent in by April 7. Please send your comments to Judy Adams, Lands Staff, Red Rock Ranger District, P.O. Box 20429, Sedona, AZ 86341-0429, 928-203-7506, FAX 928-203-7539, or email: jadams05@fs.fed.us.