Show Low Planning Commission addresses Snow Creek traffic concerns in public forum

The Show Low City Planning and Zoning Meeting held on May 13, 2025, brought significant community concerns to light regarding a proposed development project adjacent to the Snow Creek community. Residents voiced their apprehensions about traffic impacts and safety issues stemming from the development, particularly regarding access routes.

During the meeting, Commissioner Wilson raised a critical point about the necessity of a traffic impact study, which is required by the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) due to the project's proximity to an ADOT highway. The study's findings could impose additional requirements on the project, which would need to be addressed before moving forward. This raised questions among residents about how potential traffic issues would be managed if the project were approved before the study's completion.

Community member Robert Edens expressed frustration over the lack of multiple access points for the new apartments, unlike the nearby Elkridge Apartments, which have two entrances. He highlighted concerns that the single access point on Summit Trail would exacerbate traffic congestion, especially with additional developments planned in the area. Edens emphasized the need for a more comprehensive traffic management plan to ensure safety for both current residents and future tenants.

Another resident, Marceline Camus, echoed these concerns, stressing that the limited access to Snow Creek could pose serious safety risks, particularly in emergencies. She pointed out that the only exit from their community is a short road that ends in a dead end, which could become problematic with increased traffic from the new development.

The meeting also allowed residents to submit signatures and comments for the record, indicating a strong community interest in the project and its implications. Many residents felt that public notices should provide more opportunities for community engagement before decisions are made, rather than after.

As the city moves forward with the planning process, the concerns raised by residents will likely play a crucial role in shaping the final outcome of the project. The city’s commitment to addressing these issues will be essential in balancing development with community safety and quality of life.