Sedona AZ (November 18, 2011) – The Red Rock Ranger District of the Coconino National Forest will begin constructing six Red Rock Scenic Byway sign structures, several informational kiosks, and some trailhead improvements along a 7.5-mile section of State Route 179. The work is expected to take several months to complete. Scenic Byway signs will be constructed at the north and south ends of the 7.5 mile stretch of 179, and at Courthouse Vista, Little Horse Trail, Bell Rock Vista, and Yavapai Point Vista. Various improvements at Yavapai Point Vista will also occur, including the construction of a pathway to vista points, and the installation of interpretive panels. A temporary 60-day closure of Yavapai Point Vista will be in place during the construction period; all other sites will remain open. The Scenic Byway signs will be constructed of natural red rock and rustic appearing steel to blend in with the surrounding landscape and local architecture.
This section of SR 179 is special because in 2006, the US Dept. of Transportation recognized its uniqueness by giving it All American Road status, the highest designation within the National Scenic Byways Program. To date, this section of 179 remains the only All American Road in the State of Arizona. Nationally, there are 125 National Scenic Byways in 44 states, but only 36 of the Byways, including the Red Rock Scenic Byway or “Gateway to Sedona”, have additionally earned the prestigious All-American Road designation.
This project is being funded through the National Scenic Byway grant program and was awarded to the Red Rock Ranger District. The public may experience some inconvenience during the construction period, in and around construction sites. For more information, please contact the Red Rock Ranger District at 928-203-7500. Current information will be posted on our web site at www.coconinoforest.us