Category: Public Safety

Flagstaff College to present Post-election Community Get-together on Dec. 11

 Flagstaff College/Communiversity, Friends of Flagstaff’s Future, and Catch Fire, are hosting a post-election community get-together! Please join us and share your energy, concerns, and your persistent hope that we can make our communities places of kindness, resilience, health, and equity.

We’ve invited local organizations to talk to us about their concerns, needs, and strategies–and how we might support them in their efforts to navigate the coming months.

If you want to know how you can take local action around important issues including immigration, climate change, health care, human rights, regional land use, and economic systems, join us on:

City of Flagstaff announces preliminary work to begin for the Cedar Avenue Crossing Project

FLAGSTAFF — Lane shifts are set to begin along Cedar Avenue. The City of Flagstaff and contractor, Eagle Mountain Construction, are beginning work on the Cedar Avenue Crossing Project. The project involves replacing the box culvert underneath Cedar Avenue, between Grandview Drive and Monte Vista Drive.

Prescribed Fire Planned on North Kaibab Ranger District

FREDONIA — Fire managers are expecting to conduct a prescribed fire operation on the North Kaibab Ranger District this week. The Telephone Hill Unit is located approximately 14 miles south of Jacob Lake adjacent to State Route 67, which has closed for the winter season. Fire Managers are focusing ignition around the Pleasant Valley Cabin area of the unit to reduce hazardous fuel loads around the cabin and State Route 67 corridor, the operation is expected to affect about 700 acres in that vicinity. Operations could begin as early as Tuesday, December 10, and are expected to be completed in 2-3 days, coinciding with prescribed fires planned on Grand Canyon National Park’s North Rim.

Additional Water Restrictions Implemented at the South Rim

Grand Canyon National Park, in northern Arizona, encompasses 278 miles (447 km) of the Colorado River and adjacent uplands. Located on the ancestral homeland of 11 Associated Tribes, Grand Canyon is one of the most spectacular examples of erosion anywhere in the world—unmatched in the incomparable vistas it offers visitors on the rim. Grand Canyon National Park is a World Heritage Site. The National Park Service cares for the special places saved by the American people so that all may experience our heritage.

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up: Dec. 2-6, 2024

Resume Workshop Series at Albright Training Center

Albright Training Center is hosting a series of resume workshops designed to help individuals apply for and compete for jobs with the National Park Service. Led by Paul Ganas and Dalirca Matos, Human Resource Specialists for NPS, these sessions will provide valuable insights into building strong resumes and navigating the federal hiring process.

Each workshop is tailored to a specific audience, so be sure to attend the session that best fits your needs:

Sedona Arts Center — Check Out Our Winter Art Workshops Lineup!

Intuitive Abstract Painting
with Casey Cheuvront
December 15: Sunday, 11am–4pm

This workshop focuses on intuitive, instinctive mark-making and painting, allowing student painters to work without preconceived plan or design, and permitting intuitive elements to occur naturally through the creative process.

We will begin with a brief review of basic art principles, a brief demo, and move into materials management and hands-on painting.

Beulah/University Realignment Project – Roundabout to Open

FLAGSTAFF — The City of Flagstaff and Eagle Mountain Construction, along with the Arizona Department of Transportation, are set to open the new Beulah Boulevard extension and roundabout that accesses University Avenue, Yale Street and Beulah Boulevard on Friday, December 6. The opening of the roundabout will also include access to the new shared-use paths, crosswalks and bus-only lanes. The bus-only lanes along a small section of Beulah Boulevard are to be used exclusively by Mountain Line buses. Please note, the pedestrian crosswalk along Beulah Boulevard will remain closed for the time being while we wait for final components. Please utilize the crosswalks at the roundabout to cross Beulah Boulevard.

Bilingual report — Northern Arizona Interfaith Council to present ‘Let’s Talk About the Current State of Immigration’ on Dec. 4

FLAGSTAFF — The Northern Arizona Interfaith Council will present “Let’s Talk About the Current State of Immigration” at 6 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 4 at Killip Elementary School, 2300 E. 6th Ave., Flagstaff.

Language interpretation available.

Hear from Flagstaff Police Chief Sean Connolly, incoming Coconino County Sheriff Bret Axlund and other public officials and legal experts.

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up: Nov. 25-29, 2024

The 2024 Fall Astronomy Volunteers. This team put on dark skies programs 4-5 nights per week through the fall season, connecting tens of thousands of visitors to the stars. Thank you for your stellar service to your national parks and to Grand Canyon’s dark skies! Left to right: Bernie Sanden, Robyn Tan, Steve Dimse, Lian Tan, Tyler Cherry, Rader Lane, CC Cogswell, Joey Green.

District 5 Supervisor Lena Fowler Named to National Disaster Reform Task Force

COCONINO COUNTY — Lena Fowler, Coconino County Supervisor, District 5 has been named to a newly formed National Association of Counties (NACo) Intergovernmental Disaster Reform Task Force.

This presidentially appointed group of 28 county leaders is tasked with modernizing federal disaster policies, strengthening intergovernmental partnerships geared towards disaster resiliency and enhancing local disaster mitigation, response and recovery capacities.

“As the Coconino County Supervisor for District 5, I offer extensive expertise in disaster management, particularly in response to wildfires and floods in Northern Arizona,” said Fowler. “My leadership during significant events, including the Schultz Fire, has been instrumental in orchestrating complex recovery efforts in collaboration with local, tribal, state, and federal agencies while advocating for the development of resilient infrastructure. My in-depth understanding of the region’s unique geography, combined with my commitment to the welfare of our diverse communities, ensures a proactive and inclusive strategy for disaster preparedness and response.”

Grand Canyon National Park Receives NHTSA Grant Funding from Arizona Governor’s Office of Highway Safety

Park Rangers receive new equipment for Pedestrian & Bicycle Safety, Speed enforcement, and DUI enforcement.    GRAND CANYON, AZ. — Grand Canyon National Park (GRCA) has been awarded National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) grants through the Arizona Governor’s Office…

City of Flagstaff — Notices sent to customers with water service lines with unknown material; no lead lines identified to date

FLAGSTAFF— Per Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) requirements, the City has been conducting an inventory of the location and material type of all city water service lines. City customers with service lines of unknown material received a mailed notice this week from the City of Flagstaff with steps to help determine the material in the water service line. A map hosted by ADEQ detailing the material of known service lines is now also available to view on 120wateraudit.com

Coconino County Provides Superior Court and Health Services in Page on Dec.5

PAGE — The Superior Court in Coconino County and Coconino County Health and Human Services (CCHHS) are hosting an event at the Page Justice Facility, 547 Vista Ave., in Page, Arizona on Thursday, December 5, 2024, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

This event provides residents of Page and neighboring areas with the opportunity to receive important services without traveling to Flagstaff. Registration is not required.

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up: Nov. 11-15, 2024

Winter Preparedness: Best Practices for Power Outages

Winter in Grand Canyon Village brings its own set of challenges, including the possibility of power outages due to inclement weather. It’s important to be prepared for a variety of winter-related situations to ensure the safety and well-being of you, your family, and your neighbors.

What to Do During a Power Outage

Lane closure on Butler Ave between Leroux St and San Francisco St to begin Nov. 18

A portion of east-bound Butler Ave will be closed and motorists in the area should expect short delays. Two Mountain Line bus stops near Butler Ave and San Francsico St will be temporarily relocated one block east near Butler Ave and WC Riles St. Signage in the area will direct transit riders to the temporary stop locations as well as pedestrian access. Construction activities will remove landscaping and furnishings on the north and south side of Butler Ave between Leroux St and San Francisco St.

Pile burns planned along Snowbowl Road (Nov. 8)

FLAGSTAFF — Fire managers with the Coconino National Forest plan to burn piles of slash along Snowbowl Road tomorrow to reduce hazardous forest fuels.

For the latest information at any time of the day, details and updates about all prescribed burn projects can be found on the Coconino NF Prescribed Burn Projects Inciweb page, which is updated any time new information is available

Traffic control on Milton Road to be removed (Nov. 8) until spring 2025

On Friday, Nov. 8, the existing traffic control along Milton Road will be removed and north and southbound lanes will be re-opened until spring 2025. Additionally, eastbound access onto University Drive via Milton Road will be re-opened. Please keep in mind that traffic control along Milton Road, University Avenue and University Drive will return in spring 2025 so crews can perform asphalt paving and concrete installation operations to finish out the remainder of the project.   

Pile burn west of Flagstaff planned for (Nov. 1)

FLAGSTAFF — With predicted moisture in the next couple of days, fire managers with the Coconino National Forest are planning on conducting pile burns 4 miles west of Flagstaff, south of Interstate 40 along Naval Observatory Road.

Smoke will be visible to those in Flagstaff and motorists along I-40 and may impact areas of Flagstaff Ranch.

Friends of Flagstaff’s Future (F3) — Flagstaff’s Draft Regional Plan Open For a 60-day Public Review

The Flagstaff Regional Land Use Plan is an important policy guide for the Flagstaff Region: this region includes the City of Flagstaff and nearby county communities including Kachina, Mountainaire, Doney Park, and Bellemont. The Draft Regional Plan envisions the year 2045 and outlines the community vision for growth, housing, transportation, the economy, climate action, natural resources, open space, parks, water management, energy, and infrastructure.

United Way of Northern Arizona — Halloween Safety Tips for Tonight

Happy Halloween from United Way of Northern Arizona!

Tonight will be an exciting time filled with costumes, candy, and spooky adventures. But it’s also important to prioritize safety while trick-or-treating.

As you know, one of our organization’s main priorities is stepping up for youth and that includes making sure they are safe.

Whether you’re planning to walk the neighborhood or attend local festivities, these tips will help keep children safe and make Halloween a memorable experience for all the right reasons.

Before Heading Out: Plan for Safety
Make sure costumes are short enough to avoid tripping hazards and that your child can see through any mask. Attaching reflective tape to costumes or treat bags or carrying glow sticks or flashlights will improve visibility.

Have a plan for your route and stick to familiar, well-lit areas. Ensure that younger children are supervised by an adult and set up a curfew for older kids going out alone.

CCHHS Issues Warning on Unlicensed Food Vendors

COCONINO COUNTY — Coconino County Health and Human Services Environmental Health has noted an increase in unlicensed food vendors throughout the County. These vendors pose a high risk of serious foodborne illness due to unsanitary conditions and should be avoided.

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up: Oct. 28-Nov. 1, 2024

Voting on November 5th

The 2024 Arizona elections will take place on Tuesday, November 5, coinciding with the nationwide general election. As we’ve seen in previous elections, every vote matters, and we strongly encourage all employees and community members to exercise their right to vote.

For those working in the park, you can cast your ballot at the Shrine of the Ages, precinct #59, on Election Day. Voters registered in Coconino County have the option to vote at their designated precinct polling place or at any Vote Center available on Election Day. Polls will be open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. local time, and if you are in line at 7 p.m., you will still be allowed to vote.

For up-to-date information on polling locations and additional details, please visit the Coconino County Elections website at www.coconino.az.gov/elections or call 928-679-7860.

City of Flagstaff conducting inventory of water service lines; Customers with service lines with unknown material to receive notice

FLAGSTAFF — Per Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) requirements, the City has been conducting an inventory of the location and material type of all city water service lines. City customers with service lines of unknown material will receive a notice from the City of Flagstaff in early November 2024. There is a possibility that water service lines of unknown material could be made of lead or galvanized pipe that was previously connected to lead.  

City of Flagstaff awarded $5M federal grant for Amtrak Station Accessibility Project

FLAGSTAFF — The City of Flagstaff has been awarded a Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvement grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Railroad Administration for $4,989,600 for the Amtrak Station Accessibility Project. The project includes reconstruction of the existing north platform and the addition of a new south platform, which will improve passenger accessibility, rail efficiency, and safety. Matching funds in the amount of $1.2M will be provided through a partnership between the City and BNSF Railway. This project will be integrated into City’s Downtown Mile Safety and Connectivity suite of projects to provide a wholistic approach to improvements along the rail corridor.

Fire managers considering managing lightning-caused fire south of Flagstaff

FLAGSTAFF — Fire managers with the Coconino National Forest are currently monitoring a lightning-caused wildfire that was reported the morning of October 25 approximately 11 miles south of Flagstaff on the west side of Interstate 17 near the Newman Park exit.

The Smith Fire is currently 55 acres within the burn scar of the Scott Fire of 2023 and moving at a low rate of spread with no structures threatened.

Fire managers are considering this wildfire as a candidate to manage for forest health but waiting to see what the next couple of days brings in precipitation.

City of Flagstaff — Winter parking restrictions begin Nov. 1

FLAGSTAFF — Winter parking restrictions in the City of Flagstaff will begin on Nov. 1 and will remain in effect until April 1. During this time, parking on city streets and alleyways is prohibited from midnight to 7 a.m.

Winter parking restrictions allow the City to thoroughly plow the streets during snow events and remains in effect even if it is not snowing to aid in street sweeping. This ordinance is enforced by the Flagstaff Police Department. Cars that are parked in violation of the ordinance when it is not snowing will receive a ticket and those parked in violation during inclement weather will receive a ticket and could be towed.

Prescribed burn southwest of Lynwood and Cheshire neighborhoods planned for Oct. 23

FLAGSTAFF — A prescribed burn will be conducted by the Flagstaff Fire Department southwest of the Lynwood and Cheshire neighborhoods on Wednesday, Oct. 23. The burn will target approximately 36 acres within the Jesse Gregg RX Units. Resources on scene will include the City of Flagstaff Wildland Fire Management Module and representatives from the NAU School of Forestry.

Prescribed burns planned on Coconino National Forest this week

FLAGSTAFF — The Coconino National Forest plans to conduct two prescribed burn projects this week, beginning tomorrow.

For the latest information at any time of the day, details and updates about all prescribed burn projects can be found on the Coconino NF Prescribed Burn Projects Inciweb page, which is updated any time new information is available.

Prescribed burn planned on Coconino National Forest this week

FLAGSTAFF — The Coconino National Forest plans to conduct the following prescribed burn project, beginning tomorrow for the next two days.

UBC 2 (Upper Beaver Creek) Project

Dates: Oct. 16-17
Location: 16 miles southeast of Munds Park, near Stoneman Lake. 
Size: 500 acres.

Coconino National Forest accepting applicants for Women in Wildland Fire program

FLAGSTAFF — The Coconino National Forest is now accepting applicants for next April’s Women in Wildland Fire training camp.

Women in Wildland Fire camp participants will gain a greater understanding of the challenges and responsibilities of wildland firefighting in a supportive and educational environment.

Upon completion of the program, participants will receive the beginning qualifications needed to start a career in wildfire, whether it be as a firefighter or a supporting role.

The program consists of a combination of online and field training. During online training modules, participants will learn about topics such as wildland fire behavior, firefighting strategy and safety, and the wildland fire job application process.

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up: Oct. 7-11, 2024

Fire managers from the National Park Service and U.S. Forest Service, who are part of the North Zone Interagency Fire Management Program, have delayed the previously planned prescribed burns on the North Kaibab Ranger District and the North Rim of the Grand Canyon. The timing of these operations will now depend on favorable weather conditions, resource availability, and the status of the National Preparedness Level, which is currently at Level 5.

Prescribed burns planned on Coconino National Forest week of Oct. 7

FLAGSTAFF — The Coconino National Forest plans to continue work on several prescribed burn projects this week that will help restore healthier conditions to the fire-adapted ponderosa pine forests of northern Arizona.

Prescribed burns will be canceled if weather conditions – such as temperature, wind or humidity – do not meet the criteria outlined in the burn plans.

City of Flagstaff — Inner Basin Waterline repair project complete after wildfire damage

FLAGSTAFF — The City of Flagstaff and the Coconino National Forest’s Flagstaff Ranger District are proud to announce the substantial completion of the Inner Basin Waterline repair project. The project repaired an important water pipeline that delivers two to four million gallons of water per day to Flagstaff that was damaged by post-wildfire flooding from the 2022 Pipeline Fire.

Blue Stem Prescribed Fire Complete, Rx Burns Continuing on Williams Ranger District This Week

WILLIAMS — Fire managers have successfully treated 6904 acres on Tusayan Ranger District last week completing the Blue Stem Rx Fire Project and are moving back to the Three Sisters Prescribed Fire Project located just north of the City of Williams and Interstate 40, south of forest road 124, between Airport Road and the west side of Highway 64. 

Improving weather conditions have re-opened the opportunity for crews to return working in the local areas near Williams and Spring Valley. Plans are in place to begin ignitions on approximately 1500 acres of the Pronghorn and Cataract units of Three Sisters project on Tuesday October 8, and then move to the 4200 acre Marteen East Rx Fire Project later this same week. This project is located north of Spring Valley, west of forest road 144, and east of Laws Spring.

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up: Sept. 30-Oct. 4, 2024

Beginning October 8, fire managers from the National Park Service and US Forest Service will initiate prescribed burns on the North Kaibab Ranger District and the North Rim of the Grand Canyon. These operations, part of the North Zone Interagency Fire Management Program, will continue into December, depending on weather and fuel conditions.

Targeted areas for burning include Highway 67 near Jacob Lake, the Telephone Hills area, Demotte, and portions southwest of Forest Road 22 on the North Kaibab Ranger District, as well as areas near the North Rim Developed area and Cape Royal in the park.

Residents and visitors may notice smoke during ignition operations, especially along Highways 89A and 67. The Cape Royal Road will be closed from sunset on Oct. 13 through Oct. 18 while the road to Point Imperial will remain open.

A total of 25,371 acres on the North Kaibab Ranger District and 4,347 acres on the North Rim will be treated to reduce hazardous fuels and maintain the ecosystem’s natural fire processes. Fire managers will coordinate with the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality to mitigate potential smoke impacts.

Coconino National Forest — Resources responding to small wildfire in Schultz Pass area north of Flagstaff

FLAGSTAFF — Resources are responding to the Hollow Fire, a roughly 1.5-acre wildfire located in the Schultz Pass area 5 miles north of Flagstaff.

Resources responding to the incident include two engines.

Firefighters are currently working to suppress the fire using adjacent trail systems as holding features.

New Leadership Announced in the Coconino County Attorney’s Office

COCONINO COUNTY — The Coconino County Attorney’s Office has initiated a succession plan that includes the resignation and reassignment of County Attorney Bill Ring.

At the Board of Supervisors meeting today, Ring’s resignation was accepted, and he was appointed Chief Civil Deputy Attorney, while Chief Deputy County Attorney Ammon Barker was sworn in as interim County Attorney, and Senior Criminal Attorney Michael Tunink was appointed Chief Deputy County Attorney. All actions were approved by the Board of Supervisors.

City of Flagstaff announces completion of Landfill Road Reconstruction Project

FLAGSTAFF — The City of Flagstaff is proud to announce the completion of the Landfill Road Reconstruction Project, which re-paved and improved the road from US Hwy 89 to the Cinder Lake Landfill northeast of Flagstaff. The completed project provides reliable and easy access to the Landfill for customers, as well as increased stormwater capacity along the road, which was necessary due to wildfires and post-wildfire flooding in the area.

Coconino National Forest managing lightning-caused Brigade Fire west of Fort Tuthill

Managing this fire to allow it to consume hazardous forest fuels such as pine needles, cones, and dead wood, which will help create a buffer in an area that is typically susceptible to the direction of catastrophic wildfires during traditional southwest winds. In the long run, the treatment this fire provides will help protect residents, the surrounding community, powerlines, and the airport.

City of Flagstaff announces prescribed burn southwest of Lynwood and Cheshire neighborhoods planned for Sept. 23 & 24

FLAGSTAFF — A prescribed burn will be conducted by the Flagstaff Fire Department southwest of the Lynwood and Cheshire neighborhoods on Monday, Sept. 23 and Tuesday, Sept. 24. The burn will target approximately 40 acres within the Jesse Gregg RX Units. Resources on scene will include the City of Flagstaff Wildland Fire Management Module and Greater Flagstaff Area Fire Academy recruits.

City of Flagstaff — Grandview Drive Reconstruction Project complete, Spruce Wash flood mitigation projects move forward

FLAGSTAFF — The City of Flagstaff and its contractor, Eagle Mountain Construction, are proud to announce the completion of the Grandview Drive Reconstruction Project. This project included lowering and replacing utilities along Grandview and full street reconstruction to install new curbs, gutters, and inverted asphalt to better channel floodwaters. This is the first of a series of planned flood mitigation projects as part of the Spruce Wash suite of projects.

Flagstaff Mayor Becky Daggett said “the completion of the Grandview Drive Reconstruction Project is a reason to celebrate and a significant step toward mitigating post-wildfire flooding in this area. Thank you to the residents who voted for Prop 441, giving the city the necessary funding, to city staff for their dedication, and to all the impacted residents for their patience. Together, we’ll keep making progress toward making flood-impacted neighborhoods safer.”

City of Flagstaff Road work continues through September in Downtown, Coconino Estates, Sunnyside and University Heights areas

FLAGSTAFF — Road repair and maintenance work continues throughout Flagstaff as part of the City’s annual Road Repair and Street Safety (RRSS) project. Work on Aspen Ave. is scheduled for Sept. 17 and 18, when crews will complete final asphalt pavement surfacing and markings. Single lane closures will be in place on Aspen Avenue from Humphreys St. to Elden St to facilitate the work. Flaggers will be present at the intersections and delays are likely for motorists in the area.

Coconino County Urges Continued Investment in Forest Restoration During Roundtable with USDA Sec. Vilsack

“Coconino County is no stranger to wildfire,” Vasquez said. “We have endured 9 major wildfires that have burned over 250,000 acres since 2010, and since 2017, the County Board of Supervisors has acknowledged that wildfire and post-wildfire flooding are the two greatest public safety threats to our people. That is why we have embarked on a Forest Restoration Initiative and used local Flood Control District tax dollars to leverage federal investment in forest restoration.”

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up: Sept. 9-13, 2024

In recognition of September as Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, we are excited to share a new promotional video featuring Joshua Stegemeyer, Arizona Department of Health Services Suicide Prevention Program Manager.

This video emphasizes the crucial role of the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, which provides 24/7 support for those experiencing mental health crises or suicidal thoughts. Residents of Grand Canyon, AZ, can call or text “9-8-8” to connect with trained crisis counselors who offer immediate, compassionate help at no cost. For those who prefer, support is also available via chat at 988lifeline.org/chat.

For our community living at Grand Canyon, this information is particularly relevant as it ensures that help is always accessible, regardless of time or location. The 988 Lifeline offers specialized support for a wide range of individuals, including those in remote areas like ours. By promoting awareness of this vital service, we can help ensure that everyone in our community knows they have a valuable resource available whenever they need it.

For more details about what happens when you contact 988, please visit azhealth.gov/988.

Flagstaff Pulliam Airport announces planned emergency response exercise on Sept. 9

FLAGSTAFF — Flagstaff Pulliam Airport (FLG) would like to inform the public of an increased presence of first responders at the airport on Monday, Sept. 9, 2024. This heightened activity is part of a planned full-scale exercise, “Operation Ready FLG.” The exercise involves a simulated aircraft incident and is being conducted in compliance with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations. Flight operations at the airport will not be affected.

The primary objective of “Operation Ready FLG” is to test and enhance the airport’s emergency response capabilities. The exercise will involve local, state, and federal agencies, with a focus on improving interoperability and coordination.

Havasupai Canyon Flood Recovery Effort

***

By the Havasupai Tribe

GRAND CANYON — Many of you have asked how you can assist the Havasupai Tribe following the effects of last week’s flash flood. The Tribe is so appreciative of the generosity of so many people.

Grand Canyon Caverns Inn can accept donations at any time.

Our focus is on rebuilding and repairing our community and providing supplies for our tribal members.

We thank you in advance for your donation.

Here is a link to the Amazon wish list: https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/3B3UA7JCYD75G…

Old Route 66 to be Closed Between Cool Pines and Sherwood Forest Roads During Culvert Construction

Starting Monday, August 26, Old Route 66 will be closed for up to 65 days between N. Cool Pines Road and N. Sherwood Forest Road to reconstruct the box culvert. During this period all traffic will be detoured along E. Pittman Valley Road. 

Old Route 66 to be Closed Between Cool Pines and Sherwood Forest Roads During Culvert Construction

Coconino County’s contractor is mobilizing to break ground next week on a project to replace the existing Volunteer Wash box culvert on Old Route 66.

Starting Monday, August 26, Old Route 66 will be closed for up to 65 days between N. Cool Pines Road and N. Sherwood Forest Road to reconstruct the box culvert. During this period all traffic will be detoured along E. Pittman Valley Road. 

City of Flagstaff’s Lucky Lane Reconstruction Project to begin week of Sept. 23

FLAGSTAFF — As part of the annual Road Repair and Street Safety Program, the City and its contractor, C & E Paving and Grading, will be reconstructing Lucky Lane between Butler Avenue and Bronco Way. The project will begin the week of September 23 and is scheduled to be complete by late November. The work will include the removal and replacement of the asphalt pavement, sidewalk repairs and replacements, and curb replacement and installation.

Pipeline Fire closure to lift, allowing motor vehicle access in Schultz Pass area once again

FLAGSTAFF — Several roads located in the Schultz Pass area of the Coconino National Forest’s Flagstaff Ranger District will reopen to motorized vehicles tomorrow following a roughly two-year closure due to the Pipeline Fire.

The temporary trail and road closure order for the Pipeline Fire, which has been in effect since September of 2022, will be lifted at 8 a.m. Friday (Aug. 16).

Gates, barricades and signage posted in the area will be modified and removed to reflect the removal of the closure order.

Firing operations near wildfire to begin east of Clints Well

CLINTS WELL, Ariz. — Fire managers are preparing to conduct firing operations on several hundred acres of land around the Tango Fire, a lightning-caused wildfire first reported last week and located 8.5 miles northeast of Clints Well.

Fire managers are planning to begin firing operations the morning of Aug. 15 and plan to conclude by the end of Friday in advance of forecasted monsoonal rains.

Smoke will be noticeable to residents of the Happy Jack and Clints Well communities and may also be visible to communities below Mogollon Rim and possibly to motorists along Interstate 17 in the area of Camp Verde.

Mechanical thinning to begin along Snowbowl Road

“These mechanical thinning operations are part of a larger forest-wide initiative to fulfill our local obligations to the Forest Service’s Wildfire Crisis Strategy,” said District Ranger Matt McGrath. “These efforts are just one small part of a greater overall strategy to reduce the risk of catastrophic wildfire and subsequent post-fire flooding in the Flagstaff area.”

Pinyon Plain Mine has begun Hauling Uranium Ore Through Coconino County

Coconino County has been notified by the United States Forest Service that the hauling of uranium ore from Pinyon Plain Mine near Grand Canyon National Park to White Mesa Mill in Utah began this morning.

The haul route begins south on SR 64 to Williams, heads east on Interstate 40 through Flagstaff, then north on US 89 to Tuba City, and then northeast on US 160. A map with the route indicated by the red and purple lines is attached. 

Coconino National Forest to lift fire restrictions Friday

FLAGSTAFF — Due to increased precipitation received across the Coconino National Forest, fire restrictions will be lifted at 8 a.m. tomorrow, July 26, 2024.

While forest-wide restrictions have been lifted, several areas of the Coconino National Forest are subject to permanent year-round fire restrictions, which will remain in effect.

Additionally, forest visitors are asked to adhere to best practices while building a campfire. Where fires are permitted, use established fire rings, fire pans or mound fires, and keep fires small. Never leave a campfire unattended. Use at least 6 gallons of water and a shovel to completely extinguish a campfire. Before leaving a campsite, make sure all campfires are dead out, wet and cold to the touch.

City of Flagstaff to lift fire restrictions Friday at 8 a.m.

FLAGSTAFF — The City of Flagstaff will lift current fire restrictions and return to Stage 0 fire restrictions on Friday, July 26 at 8 a.m.

Under Stage 0 fire restrictions,

Smoking and use of electronic cigarettes are prohibited in all public places within the City of Flagstaff, including City Parks, Open Spaces, and the Flagstaff Urban Trail System (FUTS) at all times.

City of Flagstaff Stormwater Section releases recommendations and resources for upcoming monsoon season

FLAGSTAFF — Each year, the City of Flagstaff Stormwater Section releases up-to-date recommendations and resources on monsoon and flood awareness. With monsoon season upon us, residents are encouraged to review the updated information, which includes the following recommendations:

United Way of Northern Arizona — Can You Help Our Airport Be ‘Operation Ready’? at Pulliam Airport

Every three years, Flagstaff Pulliam Airport stages a full-scale exercise to test responses to an aircraft accident at the airport. This is an event that requires help from the entire community, and involves representatives from the city, county, state, and federal government, private sector and non-government partners and lots of volunteers.

This year’s all-day exercise, called Operation Ready FLG. will take place on Monday, September 9, 2024 and requires about 60 volunteers to portray injured and non-injured passengers of a simulated plane crash and mass casualty incident.

United Way of Northern Arizona is helping to coordinate volunteers for the event.

Lockett Fire operations nearing completion

TUSAYAN — Crews completed planned ignitions around the entire perimeter and in the interior of the Lockett Fire planning area yesterday, bringing the total number of acres treated to 2,782.

Helicopter operations will continue today to locate areas which did not receive fire effects and determine if further isolated ignitions are required. Crews on the perimeter of the planning area will be patrolling to ensure the fire stays within containment lines, and resource advisors will work to identify areas requiring rehabilitation, such as on dozer lines, hand lines, and other areas impacted by firefighter activity to mitigate potential erosion issues in the future. Crews and equipment will be working along forest roads and smoke may cause decreased visibility – drive with caution.