Shiloh residents question traffic and zoning for new apartment complex near Snow Creek

In the heart of Show Low, Arizona, residents gathered at the city hall for a pivotal Planning and Zoning Meeting on May 13, 2025. The atmosphere was charged with concern as community members voiced their apprehensions about a proposed apartment complex that could reshape their neighborhood.

Liz Smoot, a resident of Snow Creek Trail, expressed her worries about the transformation of nearby forest land into commercial property. “We were told that’s forest land,” she lamented, highlighting the unexpected shift that has left many feeling unsettled. Smoot raised critical questions about zoning regulations and the anticipated traffic impact from the new development, which could introduce up to 96 apartments to the area. “What traffic studies have been done?” she asked, emphasizing the potential strain on local roads and the need for thorough planning.

Her concerns were echoed by Jim West, a new property owner in the vicinity, who questioned the size and placement of the proposed apartments. He suggested that retail options might better serve the community than more residential units. “Why isn’t that corner lot available for retail?” he pondered, reflecting a desire for a balanced development that considers the needs of existing residents.

As the meeting progressed, city officials clarified the nature of the proposal. They explained that the project is a conditional use permit rather than a zone change, which entails a different public notification process. While some residents felt blindsided by the lack of a neighborhood meeting, city staff assured them that proper notifications had been sent out, albeit with some residents potentially missing out due to discrepancies in property ownership records.

Commissioner discussions also touched on the implications of traffic management, particularly regarding access points to the new development. With U.S. Highway 60 being a state highway, questions arose about the city’s influence over traffic egress and ingress. The commissioners acknowledged the need for further dialogue with the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) to ensure that traffic concerns are adequately addressed.

As the meeting drew to a close, the community's apprehensions lingered in the air. The proposed apartment complex represents not just a change in landscape but a potential shift in the very fabric of the neighborhood. With ongoing discussions about traffic studies and zoning regulations, residents are left to wonder how their voices will shape the future of Show Low. The outcome of this development will undoubtedly influence the community for years to come, making it a topic of keen interest as plans unfold.