Public meetings scheduled on Navajo Nation transportation studies

For Immediate Release: January 30, 2012

Contact: ADOT Media Relations

news@azdot.gov or 1-800-949-8057

 

Long-range transportation studies underway for Chinle to Many Farms & St. Michaels to Fort Defiance

 

WINDOW ROCK – The Navajo Division of Transportation, Arizona Department of Transportation and Navajo Chapters invite the public to attend the second round of public meetings regarding two long-range transportation studies:

 

■    St. Michaels to Window Rock to Fort Defiance Transportation Corridor Study: Monday, February 27, 2012, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Fort Defiance Chapter House (presentation starts at 6:30 p.m.)

 

■    Chinle to Many Farms Transportation Corridor Study: Tuesday, February 28, 2012, from 6 to 8 p.m., at the Chinle Chapter House (presentation starts at 6:30 p.m.)

 

The Navajo DOT, Chapter Communities and ADOT are conducting the two studies concurrently. Interested community members and stakeholders are welcome to attend both public meetings so that they have an opportunity to learn about and comment on both studies. At each public meeting, the project team will offer materials and presentations regarding each respective corridor study area, answer questions and seek public comments. Navajo interpretation will be available and light refreshments will be served.

 

As the Navajo Nation continues to grow, comprehensive transportation planning is necessary for sustainable development and to meet the needs of area residents, businesses and visitors. The two studies will analyze and identify improvements for all modes of transportation within the corridor areas, including vehicular, pedestrian, bicycle, and equestrian, as well as connections between vehicular, airport and transit systems for commuter and emergency needs. Particular attention will be paid to safety, mobility, livability, and economic and community development. Ultimately, the long-range studies will recommend transportation improvements to be implemented in five, 10 and 20-year timeframes.

 

The studies are being conducted in two phases. The first phase documented current and future conditions and needs identified during the public meetings held in the fall of 2011. The second phase will focus on evaluation criteria and specific plans for improvements at the public meetings in February.

 

The two studies are funded through the ADOT Planning Assistance for Rural Areas (PARA) Program. For more information or to submit comments please contact Don Sneed, ADOT Project Manager at 928-712-6736/ dsneed@azdot.gov or Salisa Norstog, Navajo DOT Principal Planner at 928-871-6498/snorstog@navajodot.org. Comments received by March 28, 2012, will be included in a Public Involvement Summary Report. Detailed study information and area maps can be found at: http://www.azdot.gov/MPD/Systems_Planning/NavajoChapter.asp.

 

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA): This notice may be available in alternate format and persons with a disability may request a reasonable accommodation, such as a sign language interpreter, by contacting Jason Hurd at 928-522-6015. Request should be made as early as possible to allow time to arrange the accommodation.