By Steve Segner
On Monday, April 20, 2026, the city of Sedona was recognized for its exceptional work in preserving and improving the former Forest Service Ranger Station on Brewer Road, now Ranger Station Park.
The multi-year project has received national honors from the American Public Works Association as Project of the Year in the Small Cities/Rural Communities category, as well as recognition for Historical Restoration and Preservation in 2025.
It has also been featured in the Engineering & Public Works Roadshow, a collaboration with the American Society of Civil Engineers and the American Council of Engineering Companies—organizations representing tens of thousands of professionals across the country.
Sedona has received this well-deserved national award, and it’s worth taking a moment to understand why.
Ranger Station Park is more than a new public space. It is a reflection of what can happen when a community and its local government work together with purpose, respect for history, and a commitment to doing things right.
This 3.4-acre site carries more than a century of history. It began as a working ranger station for the United States Forest Service, quietly serving the Coconino National Forest during a time when Sedona was still finding its identity.
The Ranger’s House, built in 1917, still stands—the oldest structure in town. The Ranger’s barn, built in 1934 by the Civilian Conservation Corps, stands with it. Together, they tell a story not just of buildings, but of stewardship, of care, and of a deep connection to the land.
For a time, that story was at risk of being lost. This property was almost to be converted into lodging units as part of a proposed expansion of Los Abrigados Resort. But this community—and the City of Sedona—chose a different path. It acquired the property in 2014 when the resort was unable to proceed with its plans.
They chose to preserve.
They chose to restore.
They chose to carry that story forward.
More than 65% of the original materials remain. The pathways follow the land rather than fight it. Decomposed granite reduces heat and blends naturally into the landscape. The design feels organic—quietly fitting into its surroundings rather than competing with them.
Even the unseen elements tell part of the story. Innovative flood control protects both the park and neighboring properties.
Much of the infrastructure work was completed by city public works crews working alongside local contractors—demonstrating that thoughtful government can also be efficient and resourceful.
And now, that work has been recognized at the highest levels.
You can see it in the restored historic buildings of this park—carefully preserved and purposefully maintained.
And you can see this approach of Wear engineering and aesthetics come together in the new parking structure on Forest Road— now called Uptown Station. It is open, thoughtfully designed, and more reminiscent of a civic building than a traditional garage.
These are not just projects.
They are choices.
Choices to respect the landscape.
Choices to balance form and function.
Choices to build infrastructure that belongs in Sedona—not something that could be anywhere.
Awards are not given lightly.
They are earned.
And in this case, they are well deserved.
Ranger Station Park stands as a reminder that when a city leads, listens, and works with its community, it can create something that honors the past while setting a standard for the future.Ranger Statiion Story (2)
That is something Sedona can be proud of.
