Hello VVCC Members,
The City of Sedona on Nov 22nd approved the purchase of the 43 acre Cultural Center property in West Sedona. Many cyclists are familiar with this area as the Girdner Trailhead starts from there and leads to six trails that comprise much of the Western Gateway trail system.
The VVCC Board voted to support this initiative and I spoke before the City Council on 11/22 to this effect. As I mentioned in my comments to the Council this plan makes sense because “...it offers the potential for an expanded vision that allows for a community-focused and multiuse approach to the development of the property... Green spaces, public commons, and multiple outdoor recreation activity and venue opportunities, along with safe biking access via bike lanes, sidewalks and multiuse paths should be part of this community focus...”
The Cities of Cottonwood and Clarkdale and the Town of Camp Verde also have consistently promoted a community perspective that supports outdoor recreation and works to preserve the unique natural environment of the Verde Valley. The VVCC vision of “Developing a world class bicycling environment in the greater Verde Valley” does not take place in a vacuum. Rather, our advocacy efforts for healthy, safe and fun cycling must work in concert and in context with the Verde Valley communities. The Cultural Center property is a great opportunity for such synergy to take place.
Dan Blaettler
