Snowflake council approves capital project plan, cemetery expansion and temporary road closure for seasonal event

The Snowflake Town Council on Dec. 5 approved a package of capital projects and a short-term road closure to host a seasonal Giving Machine event.

Town staff reported a proposed cemetery expansion adding about 1,100 plots at an estimated cost described in the meeting as “a couple hundred thousand.” The council also discussed and approved additional sidewalk work: applying for—and receiving—grant funding to add sidewalks along Rodeo Road and State Route 77 to improve connections, which will require engineering design and drainage fixes. Brian Richards told the council that the Rodeo Road/Highway 77 connector to Centennial Boulevard may reduce travel lane width from 26 feet to 24 feet depending on the final design.

Engineers working with Circle K have proposed redesigns at the Snowflake Boulevard and Highway 77 intersection, including two left-turn lanes and a combined straight/right lane; a traffic count showed about 250 cars turning in an hour, per staff.

The council noted $1.9 million planned for the Cottonwood Wash regional trail system this year, with an expected net town cost of $579,000 after grant reimbursements; staff proposed additional town spending of about $600,000 in the next fiscal year and roughly $500,000 the following year. Council voted to approve the capital projects as presented.

Separately, the council approved a road closure on W. 1st N from Dec. 15 through Dec. 31 for the Giving Machine at the Freeman Home; the event will feature daily performances and collections for local and global charities. Brian Richards said the closure should not be a significant inconvenience and noted nearby parking alternatives.

The council approved the capital projects and the road-closure motion unanimously.