Sedona approves application to federal FLAP program for Western Gateway trailhead and Schnebly Hill Road improvements
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Summary
The city authorized a Federal Lands Access Program application for the Western Gateway Trailhead and Schnebly Hill Road projects — concept multimodal shared-use paths, trailhead surfacing and ADA access — and pledged future maintenance if awarded.
Sedona’s City Council voted to authorize the city manager to apply for Federal Lands Access Program (FLAP) funds to advance two projects: a shared-use path and trailhead improvements at Western Gateway and a resurfacing and pedestrian/bicycle safety project on Schnebly Hill Road.
Public Works Director Kurt Harris described the proposals as concept-level candidate projects that align with federal criteria for improved access to federal lands. “This effort is a testament to partnership between the U.S. Forest Service and the city,” Kurt said, noting the grant call is due Nov. 25 and that the city would commit to long-term maintenance of any city-owned improvements funded through the grant.
Key elements of the Western Gateway concept include a paved shared-use path from State Route 89A into the trailhead, improved parking surfaces, cultural/interpretive elements and Forest Service-funded equestrian amenities and vault toilets. The Schnebly Hill Road concept focuses on pavement edge protection, drainage, resurfacing and continuous pedestrian/bicycle pathways to improve safety and connectivity to a nearby trailhead.
Kurt said there is no local match required for the application and estimated conceptual project costs in the “less than about $750,000 to $1.5 million” range per project depending on final scope. Staff emphasized the projects will be designed by Federal Highways or an FHWA consultant if awarded, with the city and U.S. Forest Service coordinating on scope and construction schedules.
Councilors asked for additional outreach and coordination with adjacent property owners and stakeholders (including Bear Wallow and Oak Creek Heritage Lodge connections) and requested staff look into near-term safety patching on sections of Schnebly Hill Road that present an immediate hazard. City staff said small-scope patching and vegetation trimming to improve sight lines could likely be completed quickly and would not require National Environmental Policy Act review if limited to existing disturbance footprints.
Councilor Dunn moved to authorize the application and to empower the city manager to sign required documents and commit to maintenance responsibilities if awarded; the council approved the motion.
