Sedona commission reviews conceptual plans for 36-unit Ambiente Creekside resort; public raises creek-walk, flood and access concerns

The Sedona Planning and Zoning Commission on Aug. 5 heard a conceptual development review for Ambiente Creekside, a proposed 36-unit lodging resort on roughly 19 acres along Oak Creek at the Owensby Way roundabout (case PC24Z00015). Applicants described plans that include 36 atrium-style lodging units, a restaurant to revive the historic Dutchman's Cove, a 15,000-square-foot spa and wellness facility, four staff-housing units and a public creek-walk to the National Forest boundary. No vote or formal land-use decision was taken; the hearing was informational and staff provided initial comments.

Why it matters: The project would add a luxury lodging property in an environmentally sensitive riparian area near Uptown Sedona and raise questions about flood risk, public access to Oak Creek, tree preservation, parking and long-term traffic and resource demands. Commissioners and neighbors focused most heavily on the proposed creek-walk/canopy element, floodplain and wildfire risk, parking and employee housing.

City staff noted this was a conceptual review only and that a comprehensive review and additional technical studies (traffic, parking operations, floodplain and stormwater, and sustainability measures) will be required if the project moves forward. Staff said initial agency comments from Planning, Engineering/Public Works and Sustainability were provided to the applicant in advance and public outreach is ongoing.

Applicant presentation and key components - Developer: Dutchman's Cove LLC; property owner: Access Capital Total Return Fund LLC; applicant representative present: Mike Stevenson and members of the Stevenson family. Attorney Stephen Polk and architect Stephen Thompson presented for the application. - Proposal highlights provided by the applicant: 36 atrium-style lodging units averaging about 875 square feet each, each with a private hot tub and…