Construction on SR179
SR179, the road the flows from I-17 northbound through the Village of Oak Creek and into Sedona, has been in need of widening for quite some time. This nine mile stretch of road carries anywhere from 15,000 to 33,000 vehicles per day, depending on whose study you believe. And other than long out-of-the-way routes that would add more than an hour to one's drive, this is really the only way into Sedona from the Phoenix area, and the only way to connect residents of the Village with Sedona.
The problem is that Sedona's natural surroundings are so unique and fragile that such a construction project would be difficult, and seems to be opposed by many because of the damage that it could cause.
Construction began just recently, and much of the areas just outside the road are completely torn up. Fortunately, driving habits for residents haven't changed much, as we're still restricted to one lane. The concern is whether or not this project can be completed without damaging the environment.
Is the much-needed widening of SR179 a project that can be handled without destroying the nearby natural wonders and the scenic viewing that driving on this highway delivers?
