Coconino County outlines road project priorities and flood response strategies

The Coconino County Board of Supervisors convened on May 12, 2025, for the Fiscal Year 2026 Budget Hearings, focusing on key issues related to public works, road maintenance, and disaster response. The meeting highlighted the county's commitment to maintaining and improving its road infrastructure while addressing the challenges posed by natural disasters.

The discussion began with an overview of staffing and project delivery within the Public Works Department. Officials emphasized the importance of retaining skilled team members and attracting new talent to ensure the successful execution of road projects. The county has seen strong revenues from the transportation fund, allowing for a reassessment of project priorities to ensure fairness and equity across the region.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the criteria used for prioritizing road projects. Officials explained that decisions are based on road classification, traffic volume, and pavement condition. The aim is to allocate resources to the most heavily used roads while also recognizing the needs of less trafficked routes. Transparency in these processes is a priority, especially as the county undergoes a regular audit of its road maintenance sales tax.

Accomplishments in road construction and maintenance were also discussed, with over 600 miles of gravel roads and more than 300 miles of paved roads being maintained. The county is actively pursuing grants to support these efforts, particularly in light of recent flooding and fire-related emergencies that have impacted project timelines.

The conversation also touched on the county's proactive approach to disaster response. Officials noted that while the Public Works Department has been effective in managing road conditions, the increasing frequency of natural disasters poses a risk to ongoing projects. Collaboration with state agencies and contractors has been crucial in addressing these challenges.

The meeting concluded with a discussion on funding sources for road projects, clarifying that the majority of funding comes from road maintenance sales tax rather than general fund dollars. The importance of renewing this funding source in 2034 was highlighted, with plans for community engagement leading up to the renewal campaign.

Overall, the meeting underscored Coconino County's strategic planning in road maintenance and disaster preparedness, reflecting a commitment to enhancing infrastructure while navigating the complexities of natural challenges.