Category: Public Safety

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up: Aug. 31 – Sept. 4, 2026

by Community Contributor • September 3, 2026 • Comments Off

Bright Angel Flash Flood Response and South Rim Water Conservation

Grand Canyon National Park continues response and recovery efforts following the August 29 flash flood in Bright Angel Canyon and the Phantom Ranch area. Search, accountability, infrastructure assessment, and recovery work are ongoing under a Type II Incident Management Team.

Flash Flood Response and Search Efforts

At this time, 82 people have been rescued, two people have been recovered deceased, and one person remains missing. Search efforts for the missing hiker continue with park staff and partner agencies.

The flood caused extensive damage to trails, bridges, utilities, and other infrastructure in the inner canyon. Early assessments indicate that approximately 40% of the Transcanyon Waterline and five to seven miles of the North Kaibab Trail have been severely damaged. Four bridges in the Box were severely damaged or washed away. Assessments are continuing, and these estimates may change as crews learn more about the extent of the damage.

Grand Canyon National Park expands inner canyon closures following Aug. 29 flash flood

by Community Contributor • September 3, 2026 • Comments Off

GRAND CANYON, Ariz. — Grand Canyon National Park continues response and recovery operations following the destructive August 29 flash flood that caused significant damage in Bright Angel Canyon and the Phantom Ranch area.

Park staff and partner agencies are conducting damage assessments and beginning repair and stabilization work in areas where trails, bridges, utilities and other infrastructure were damaged or destroyed. Maintaining safe access for response personnel and keeping visitors out of hazardous areas is critical as this work continues.

Emergency Management Director Tim Carter named Emergency Management Professional of the Year

by Community Contributor • September 3, 2026 • Comments Off

COCONINO COUNTY — Coconino County Emergency Management Director Tim Carter was named the Emergency Management Professional of the Year by the Arizona Association of Emergency Managers (AAEM).

“Coconino County has faced an extraordinary series of emergencies over the last year, from the White Sage Fire and Dragon Bravo Fire to the Pocket Fire and the Grand Canyon flash flood,” District 1 Supervisor and Board Chair Patrice Horstman said. “Throughout each event, Tim demonstrated steady leadership, clear communication and an unwavering commitment to protecting our communities. This award is deeply deserved, and we are grateful for his service.”

Get the latest news updates from U.S. Sen. Mark Kelly (D-AZ) including ‘ICYMI: Kelly Blasts Trump for Enriching Himself While Americans Can’t Afford Their Lives’

by Community Contributor • September 3, 2026 • Comments Off

Click below for the latest news updates from the:

Office of U.S. Sen. Mark Kelly

Get the latest news updates from Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes including ‘Attorney General Mayes Defends Arizona’s Proof-of-Citizenship Voter Registration Law at U.S. Supreme Court’

by Community Contributor • September 3, 2026 • Comments Off

Click below for the latest news updates from the:

Office Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes

Grand Canyon National Park — Public assistance requested to account for individuals following Grand Canyon flash flood. See related news here

by Community Contributor • August 31, 2026 • Comments Off

Grand Canyon National Park, in northern Arizona, encompasses 278 miles (447 km) of the Colorado River and adjacent uplands. Located on the ancestral homeland of 11 Associated Tribes, Grand Canyon is one of the most spectacular examples of erosion anywhere in the world—unmatched in the incomparable vistas it offers visitors on the rim. Grand Canyon National Park is a World Heritage Site. The National Park Service cares for the special places saved by the American people so that all may experience our heritage.

Grand Canyon National Park to close overnight hotel accommodations beginning Aug. 31

by Community Contributor • August 31, 2026 • Comments Off

GRAND CANYON, Ariz. – Grand Canyon National Park will implement Stage 4 water restrictions on the South Rim beginning at noon on August 31 in response to the significant flash flooding that occurred along Bright Angel Canyon on August 29.

The flooding caused extensive damage to infrastructure in the inner canyon, including the Transcanyon Waterline, which supplies water from the canyon for use in the park. The waterline is currently not operational, leaving the park with limited water reserves and requiring significant water conservation measures to ensure available supplies can be maintained.

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up: Aug. 24-28, 2026

by Community Contributor • August 28, 2026 • Comments Off

Grand Canyon Music Festival Concerts Continue this Weekend

The Grand Canyon Music Festival showcases a variety of music types, including classical, contemporary (modern composers and new works) along with Jazz and Blues.

All performances take place in Shrine of the Ages Auditorium. Evening performances are scheduled to take place on Fridays and Saturdays – beginning this Friday, August 21, and running through Saturday, September 5. Doors open at 7 p.m., and the performances begin at 7:30 p.m. Admission is by donation, with a suggested donation of $20.

Details: https://grandcanyonmusicfest.org/concerts/

Friday, August 28 (7:30 p.m.) Cellist Karlos Rodriguez, pianist Silvan Negruƫiu, and harmonica player Robert Bonfiglio perform works Inspired by Friendship. Concert Repertoire: J.S. Bach Suite No. 3 in C Major, BWV 1009 – Benjamin Britten Suite No. 3 for solo cello, Opus 87 – Alberto Ginastera Danzas Argentinas, Opus 2 – Heitor Villa-Lobos Concerto for Harmonica – Dmitri Shostakovich Sonata for Piano and Cello, Opus 40

Unregulated food vendors can pose health threat

by AmigosNAZ.com • August 28, 2026 • Comments Off

COCONINO COUNTY — Coconino County Health and Human Services (CCHHS) Environmental Health is reminding community members that eating at an unlicensed food vendor location can pose a high risk of serious foodborne illness. Consuming food from an unlicensed food vendor…

Coconino County — Federal Economic Injury Disaster Loans available to businesses impacted by Pocket Fire. (Help available at sites in Flagstaff, Sedona)

by Community Contributor • August 24, 2026 • Comments Off

COCONINO COUNTY — Federal Economic Injury Disaster Loans are now available to businesses impacted by the Pocket Fire.

Coconino County received a Declaration of Economic Injury from the Small Business Administration (SBA) which opens the Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program to businesses impacted by the Pocket Fire.

The EIDL program provides 30-year loans with an interest rate as low as four percent. Principal and interest payments are not required in the first year of the loan to help businesses survive the loss of tourism. The program is available to all businesses in Coconino County and Yavapai County, as well as neighboring Gila, La Paz, Maricopa, Mohave and Navajo counties, San Juan and Kane counties in Utah and Tribal Nations.

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up: Aug. 17-21, 2026

by Community Contributor • August 20, 2026 • Comments Off

Grand Canyon Music Festival 43rd Season Starts this Weekend

The Grand Canyon Music Festival showcases a variety of music types, including classical, contemporary (modern composers and new works) along with Jazz and Blues.

Details: https://grandcanyonmusicfest.org/concerts/

South Rim Services Expand as Water conservation measures continue at Grand Canyon National Park

by Community Contributor • August 20, 2026 • Comments Off

GRAND CANYON, Ariz. — Grand Canyon National Park is continuing to ease water conservation measures as water supply levels improve.

Water spigots in Mather and Desert View Campgrounds have been turned on. Camper Services, operated by Delaware North, will reopen to the public on Friday, August 21.

Fire restrictions at Mather and Desert View Campgrounds have been lifted; however, campfires are only permitted in established campfire rings. Visitors and residents are reminded to use caution and practice responsible fire use at all times.

City of Flagstaff — Safe Streets Master Plan seeks community input on transportation future

by Community Contributor • August 19, 2026 • Comments Off

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz — The City of Flagstaff, in partnership with MetroPlan, Coconino County, Mountain Line, Northern Arizona University (NAU), and the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT), is developing the Flagstaff Safe Streets Master Plan (SSMP) — a shared vision for how people move throughout the Flagstaff region today and into the future.

The plan will examine the entire transportation system — including streets, sidewalks, bikeways, trails, transit, and regional connections — to make travel safer, easier, more accessible, and better connected for everyone.

City of Flagstaff — Construction to Begin Along a Section of Meade Lane

by Community Contributor • August 19, 2026 • Comments Off

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz – Starting Monday, August 31, the City of Flagstaff (City) and their contractor, Eagle Mountain Construction, will begin the Meade Lane Utility Improvements Project. The project, which runs along a section of Meade Lane between Highway 180/Fort Valley Road and the Rio de Flag bridge, consists of: improvements to the stormwater infrastructure, removal and replacement of aging water and sewer utility infrastructure, improvements to the FUTS trail, concrete curb, gutter and driveway entrance repairs and full roadway reconstruction. The project is scheduled to be complete in summer 2027 and is partially funded by the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program from the Federal Emergency Management Administration through the Arizona Department of Emergency and Military Affairs.

City of Flagstaff — Multiple road closures along Lockett Road starting Tuesday, Aug. 18

by Community Contributor • August 17, 2026 • Comments Off

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz – Beginning on Tuesday, August 18 Dyer, Childress, King, Wayman, and Walker streets will be closed at Lockett Rd. starting at 5 a.m. for work related to the 2026 Road Repair and Street Project. The work will include concrete curb, gutter and sidewalk replacement in preparation for asphalt paving.

City of Flagstaff — Pedestrian improvements to begin along Fort Valley Road

by Community Contributor • August 12, 2026 • Comments Off

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz — Starting Monday, August 17, the City of Flagstaff (City) in partnership with Mountain Line and their contractor, Kinney Construction Services, will begin pedestrian crossing improvements in multiple locations along Fort Valley Road. Pedestrian crossing installation at the Fort Valley Road and Anderson Road/Whiting Road intersection and the Fort Valley Road and Meade Lane intersection will be complete in 2026. Work at the Fort Valley Road and Forest Avenue intersection will be completed at a later time.

Coconino County Attorney’s Office and Navajo Nation launch historic Peacemaking Diversion Program

by Community Contributor • August 12, 2026 • Comments Off

The Peacemaking Diversion Program offers eligible individuals an opportunity to resolve criminal cases through a restorative process that brings together participants, victims, family members and community members to repair harm, promote accountability and strengthen relationships. Successful completion of the program may result in eligible charges being dismissed while providing victims with a meaningful voice in the justice process.

Schultz/Pipeline Flood Mitigation System receives statewide award

by Community Contributor • August 10, 2026 • Comments Off

COCONINO COUNTY — The Schultz/Pipeline Flood Mitigation System received the Project of Year Award from the Arizona Chapter of the American Public Works Association at its annual conference last week in Tucson. The award was in the category of Disaster or Emergency Construction/Repair over $75 million. The award selection committee noted the significant engineering and construction that was completed in just over two years, which mitigates much of the flood threat to lives, homes, businesses and public infrastructure near Flagstaff.

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up: August 3-7, 2026

by Community Contributor • August 7, 2026 • Comments Off

Transcanyon Waterline Repair Continues; Water Restrictions Remain in Effect

Water utility crews continue making progress on repairs to the Transcanyon Waterline break located approximately one mile below Cottonwood Campground along the North Kaibab Trail. As of today, crews are back on site fitting replacement pipe as work advances toward restoring water service.

Upcoming Community Meeting on Aug. 18 for the JW Powell Extension Project

by Community Contributor • August 7, 2026 • Comments Off

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz — The City of Flagstaff, Peak Engineering and Banicki Construction invite you to attend a Community Meeting for the upcoming JW Powell Extension Project. The meeting will be held on Tuesday, Aug. 18, between 5 and 6:30 p.m., at the Flagstaff Aquaplex (1702 N Fourth Street). This meeting will allow community members to learn more about the project, including the plan for the area and how it fits into the City’s transportation system. This meeting is an open house format with no formal presentation; join us anytime throughout the meeting. Project team members and City staff will be available to discuss the project and answer questions. Meeting displays and information will be available on our Project Webpage after the meeting for those who cannot attend.

Active Shooter Preparedness Exercise scheduled for Friday, Aug. 7

by Community Contributor • August 3, 2026 • Comments Off

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz — The Northern Arizona University Police Department and NAU Emergency Management, in collaboration with the Flagstaff Police Department and City Emergency Management, will conduct an active shooter preparedness exercise on the NAU campus on Friday, Aug. 7.

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up: July 27-31, 2026

by Community Contributor • July 31, 2026 • Comments Off

Inner Canyon Waterline Repairs Complete

Water has been fully restored to Manzanita Rest Area, Cottonwood Campground, and Phantom Ranch following the successful repair of a break in the Transcanyon Waterline. The pipeline was repressurized, water quality samples were cleared, and the water is once again safe to drink. Pumps at Havasupai Gardens are also operating and delivering water to the South Rim.

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up: July 20-24, 2026

by Community Contributor • July 24, 2026 • Comments Off

Community Library celebrates Summer Reading Challenge and looks to future
-Caroline Grass, Scientist in Park Intern

As the Grand Canyon Community Library continues to serve residents and visitors and as engagement in their programs increases, plans to better utilize their space in the Old Chase Bank building are underway.

Coconino County responds to call for assistance after flooding in Moenkopi Wash

by Community Contributor • July 24, 2026 • Comments Off

COCONINO COUNTY — On July 22, Emergency Declarations were issued by Hopi Tribal Leaders for the Moenkopi Wash area following a monsoon storm. The heavy rains and flooding damaged homes, schools, businesses, roads, fields and washes. Several homes were evacuated.

The declaration for Upper Moenkopi Village asked for assistance from several local, state and federal agencies, including Coconino County. The County deployed assistance from Emergency Management, Public Works and the Flood Control District to clear roads and provide 5,000 sandbags to residents.

The NAU Review — Dispatches from Tonto National Forest, an Etruscan scholar

by Community Contributor • July 22, 2026 • Comments Off

Going underground to measure fire risk

This summer, NAU associate professor Salli Dymond is working with the Salt River Project and the startup company Growvera to install moisture sensors on plants and dead fuel on the forest floor and underground in parts of Tonto National Forest. Over the course of a year, she and her colleagues will monitor the sensors and analyze the data they generate. Dymond said if the sensors provide accurate enough moisture data, they could be a gamechanger in how Arizona officials communicate about and prepare for wildfire season.

Grand Canyon National Park eases South Rim fire restrictions

by Community Contributor • July 22, 2026 • Comments Off

GRAND CANYON, Ariz. — Effective Sunday, July 19, Stage 2 fire restrictions (were) lifted on the South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park. Increased monsoonal activity across northern Arizona over the past week has significantly reduced fire danger in the area.

The South Rim will remain in Stage 1 fire restrictions, which require that all campfires be contained in a designated fire ring within a maintained campground. Campfires and other open fires are never allowed below the rim. Inner canyon users may continue to use gas cook stoves. River users should follow the conditions of their permit regarding fires along the Colorado River.

Visitors are urged to take the following precautions:

City of Flagstaff lifts fire restrictions effective July 20

by Community Contributor • July 20, 2026 • Comments Off

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz – The City of Flagstaff has lifted current fire restrictions and returned to Stage 0 fire restrictions, effective 6 a.m. on Monday, July 20.

Under Stage 0 fire restrictions,

Smoking and use of electronic cigarettes are prohibited in all public places within the City of Flagstaff, including City Parks, Open Spaces, and the Flagstaff Urban Trail System (FUTS) at all times.

Willard Springs Green Waste Site reopens July 17 for Friday/Saturday green waste disposal

by Community Contributor • July 15, 2026 • Comments Off

FLAGSTAFF — The Willard Springs Green Waste Site will reopen this Friday, July 17 for free green waste-only disposal after a temporary closure to support aerial firefighting operations for the Pocket Fire.

The site was closed on July 1 for public safety so it could serve as a staging area for fire suppression materials used by helicopter firefighting crews.

Willard Springs is open Fridays and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. through Oct. 31. The last load of green waste is accepted through the gate at 4:30 p.m. each operating day. This schedule is subject to change due to weather or unforeseen circumstances.

Flagstaff Fire Chief Mark Gaillard named 2025 Leader of the Year

by Community Contributor • July 7, 2026 • Comments Off

During his time at the City, Chief Gaillard has had many notable accomplishments. He supported efforts to strengthen emergency response by partnering with the Flagstaff Police Department to review and enhance computer‑aided dispatch processes, resulting in more accurate unit deployment and improved response times. When the homeowner’s insurance crisis began impacting Flagstaff residents, Chief Gaillard engaged with state and national groups and worked alongside government officials and insurance representatives to explore long‑term approaches to support wildfire‑resilient neighborhoods.

Areas of Kachina Village, Forest Highlands, and Pine Del will be downgraded from “SET” (Pre-evacuation) to “READY” status

by Community Contributor • July 1, 2026 • Comments Off

The Coconino County Sheriff’s Office is pleased to announce the areas of Kachina Village, Forest Highlands, and Pine Del will be downgraded from “SET” (Pre-evacuation) to “READY” status. The zones for these areas are 90, 91, 92, 93, 94, 96, 97, 98, and 99.

While conditions have improved to allow this adjustment, residents will continue to see smoke and fire activity for the foreseeable future.

The decision to downgrade to “SET” status was made in conjunction with the Forest Service’s Critical Incident Management Team. While conditions have improved to allow this adjustment, residents will continue to see smoke and fire activity for the foreseeable future

Willard Springs Green Waste Site temporarily closed to support Pocket Fire Operations

by Community Contributor • July 1, 2026 • Comments Off

FLAGSTAFF — The Willard Springs Green Waste Site has been temporarily closed for public safety to support aerial firefighting operations for the Pocket Fire.

The site is being used as a staging area for fire suppression materials that support aerial firefighting efforts.

Willard Springs Green Waste Site Closed July 4 for Independence Day

by Community Contributor • June 30, 2026 • Comments Off

The site will reopen on Friday, July 10, and return to its regular schedule, offering free green waste-only disposal on Fridays and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. through Saturday, Oct. 31, 2026. The last load of green waste will be accepted through the gate at 4:30 p.m. each operating day.

Asphalt paving scheduled in neighborhoods throughout Flagstaff

by Community Contributor • June 30, 2026 • Comments Off

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz – As work continues on the City’s annual Road Repair and Street Safety project, asphalt removal and paving is scheduled in neighborhoods throughout the City in late June and July. Residents on the streets listed below should be prepared for delays and use caution when traveling through the work areas due to the presence of heavy equipment and workers. The City’s contractors will coordinate directly with impacted residents on driveway access and other potential impacts.

City of Flagstaff to enter Stage 2 Fire Restrictions on June 30

by Community Contributor • June 29, 2026 • Comments Off

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz – The City of Flagstaff will enter Stage 2 Fire Restrictions at 8 a.m. on Tuesday, June 30.

Stage 2 Fire Restrictions include the following new restrictions:

The use of fire pits and other open flame devices without an on/off switch is prohibited.
The use of charcoal and wood-fired BBQs are prohibited throughout the city, including at private residences and campgrounds.
The use of propane, gas, and pellet BBQs/ smokers with an on-off switch are still allowed throughout the city.

APS Public Safety Power Shutoff anticipated in the Flagstaff area Saturday, June 27

by Community Contributor • June 26, 2026 • Comments Off

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz – The City of Flagstaff has been informed that unless there is substantial improvement in weather predictions, Arizona Public Service (APS) will initiate a Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) in parts of the Flagstaff area Saturday, June 27 as early as 10 a.m. Some areas in Flagstaff will lose power during this PSPS event. Customers who are impacted have been directly notified by APS.

The following resources are available for impacted residents:

APS may initiate Public Safety Power Shutoff in the Flagstaff area Saturday, June 27

by Community Contributor • June 26, 2026 • Comments Off

FLAGSTAFF — The City of Flagstaff has been informed that Arizona Public Service (APS) may initiate a Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) in parts of the Flagstaff area Saturday, June 27 as early as 9 a.m. Some areas on the east side of Flagstaff may lose power during this PSPS event. Customers who are impacted have been directly notified by APS. If your home is impacted, you should begin preparing for 12-24 hours without power.

Grand Canyon National Park — APS Public Safety Power Shutoff, Saturday, June 27

by Community Contributor • June 26, 2026 • Comments Off

Due to critical fire weather, APS will implement a Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) beginning Saturday, June 27 at 9:00 a.m. The outage is expected to last approximately 24 hours and will affect the South Rim, Desert View, and Inner Canyon areas.

Coconino County expanding Stage 1 fire restrictions

by Community Contributor • June 18, 2026 • Comments Off

COCONINO COUNTY — Coconino County will expand fire restrictions in coordination with the Kaibab National Forest. Stage 1 restrictions will take effect on Thursday, June 11, at 8 a.m. for all unincorporated areas within the boundaries of the Kaibab National Forest. All other areas of the County will remain in Stage 1 fire restrictions.

During Stage 1 restrictions igniting, building, maintaining or using a fire fueled by combustible materials such as wood, charcoal, briquettes and/or coal is strictly prohibited, except within a developed site. Smoking is also prohibited, except within an enclosed vehicle or a developed site. The use of tracer or incendiary rounds of ammunition or explosive targets is also strictly prohibited.

County Attorney’s Office launches Step Up Program

by Community Contributor • June 18, 2026 • Comments Off

The Step Up Program provides eligible defendants charged with non-dangerous offenses an opportunity to avoid a criminal conviction by successfully completing individualized treatment and program requirements. Participants who successfully complete the program may have their charges dismissed, while those who fail to comply with program requirements return to the traditional prosecution process.

Firefighters responding to remote lightning fire south of Sedona

by Community Contributor • June 16, 2026 • Comments Off

FLAGSTAFF — Firefighters are responding to the lightning-caused Mundy Fire, located in remote terrain about 5 miles south of Sedona.

Resources responding to the roughly quarter-acre incident include a helicopter, two engines and miscellaneous overhead.

Firefighters are responding to the Mundy Fire with a direct extinguishment strategy, and a goal of confining the Mundy Fire to as small a perimeter as possible as quickly as possible.

Stage 2 fire restrictions on North Kaibab Ranger District to begin Thursday, June 18

by Community Contributor • June 16, 2026 • Comments Off

FREDONIA — Due to increased fire danger and for public safety, the Kaibab National Forest will implement Stage 2 fire restrictions on the North Kaibab Ranger District beginning 6 a.m. Thursday, June 18.

Stage 2 fire restrictions prohibit the following:

Building, maintaining, or using a fire, campfire, or stove fire, including charcoal, coal, and briquettes, even in developed recreation sites. This includes smudge pots, pellet grills, and wood stoves. The only exception is using a stove or grill that is solely fueled by pressurized liquid petroleum or pressurized liquid petroleum gas (LPG) fuels.

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up: June 8-12, 2026

by Community Contributor • June 12, 2026 • Comments Off

As part of Grand Canyon National Park’s Conservation K-9 Pilot Project, wildlife staff are asking employees and residents to report any elk observed within designated wildlife exclusion zones.

The five designated exclusion zones are:
El Tovar Complex
Grand Canyon Visitor Center
Maswik Lodge
Mather Campground Services Area
Grand Canyon School

Greater Flagstaff Region seeks public input for its Community Wildfire Protection Plan Update

by Community Contributor • June 12, 2026 • Comments Off

FLAGSTAFF — There will be a virtual public meeting on Thursday June 25, from 6 – 7 p.m. to solicit public input for the Greater Flagstaff Region Community Wildfire Protection Plan (CWPP) update. Attendees should register online in advance. The CWPP is a community-driven planning effort that will assess wildfire risk across the Greater Flagstaff Region and identify strategies to improve wildfire preparedness, mitigation, response coordination, and recovery.

Discover Parks and Recreation Summer Adventures with Our June 2026 Newsletter

by Community Contributor • June 12, 2026 • Comments Off

Spots still open for Summer Camp weeks! Fun at the Fort is blasting off with fun themes each week, and we have room for new recruits. Find an open week to join the adventures.

City of Flagstaff — Fourth, Lockett and Cedar Roundabout to close on Friday, June 19 for final striping

by Community Contributor • June 12, 2026 • Comments Off

During this closure, extensive vehicle and pedestrian detour routes will be in place (as shown in the maps below). Please follow the marked signage to get to your destination. We recommend seeking an alternate route to bypass the closure and give yourself extra time to commute. We appreciate your support, patience and understanding while we work to improve our City’s infrastructure. For questions and additional project information, call the project hotline at (928) 255-5153.

National Park Service approves plan to modernize water system serving the North Rim and Inner Canyon at Grand Canyon National Park

by Community Contributor • June 9, 2026 • Comments Off

GRAND CANYON, Ariz. – The National Park Service (NPS) approved a plan today to upgrade the water system that supplies and delivers water between the North Rim developed area and Cottonwood Campground in Grand Canyon National Park. The current water system is old, often breaks down, and requires frequent repairs in difficult and sometimes hazardous conditions.

NPS Intermountain Regional Director Bert Frost signed a Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI) for the North Rim and Roaring Springs Water System Improvements project. This work is part of a project to rehabilitate the North Rim and Roaring Springs Utility Systems funded by the Great American Outdoors Act Legacy Restoration Fund.

Grand Canyon National Park launches Conservation K-9 pilot project to reduce human-wildlife conflicts

by Community Contributor • June 8, 2026 • Comments Off

GRAND CANYON, Ariz. — Grand Canyon National Park is welcoming a new, four-legged member to the park’s wildlife management team. “Blue,” a trained Conservation K-9, will work alongside park wildlife staff to help reduce human-wildlife conflicts in busy areas on the South Rim.

The Conservation K-9 Pilot Project, now in its first year of a 3-year pilot, uses dogs to encourage animals who are habituated to humans, such as Grand Canyon’s elk and bighorn sheep, to avoid developed areas where interactions with visitors can be unsafe to both visitors and wildlife.

City of Flagstaff — Pedestrian Improvements to Begin along Soliere Avenue

by Community Contributor • June 3, 2026 • Comments Off

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz – Starting the week of June 1, the City of Flagstaff, in partnership with Mountain Line and their contractor, Kinney Construction Services, will begin pedestrian crossing improvements in multiple locations along Soliere Avenue. These improvements are part of the “First Mile, Last Mile Initiative” which aims to add safe pedestrian infrastructure near Mountain Line bus stops throughout the City. Most of these crossings will feature a pedestrian refuge median, meaning pedestrians will only need to cross one lane of traffic at a time.

City of Flagstaff — Stage 1 Fire Restrictions begin on May 21

by Community Contributor • May 22, 2026 • Comments Off

FLAGSTAFF — The City of Flagstaff will enter Stage 1 Fire Restrictions at 8 a.m. on Thursday, May 21, 2026.

Under Stage 1 Fire Restrictions,

Permits for open burning within the City will not be issued.
The sale or use of consumer-grade fireworks is prohibited.
The use of charcoal and wood-fired BBQs are prohibited in City parks and open spaces.
Use of fire pits and other open flame devices without an on/off switch are prohibited on Red Flag Warning days, as issued by the National Weather Service.

Coconino County seeks public input on 2026 Hazard Mitigation Plan

by Community Contributor • May 22, 2026 • Comments Off

COCONINO COUNTY — Coconino County Emergency Management has released the draft 2026 Coconino County Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan for public review and comment throughout May.

This comprehensive plan identifies natural hazards that pose risks to communities across Coconino County and outlines strategies to reduce long-term vulnerability to those hazards. Developed through a collaborative process, the plan includes participation from Coconino County; the cities of Flagstaff, Page and Williams; the towns of Tusayan and Fredonia; and Northern Arizona University, along with other stakeholders and partner agencies.

City of Flagstaff — Section of Cedar Avenue to close from May 29 – 31 for final roadway striping

by AmigosNAZ.com • May 14, 2026 • Comments Off

FLAGSTAFF — Cedar Avenue will close to all traffic, from West Street to the Fourth/Lockett roundabout, from Friday, May 29, through Sunday, May 31, to allow crews to safely perform final roadway striping. Cedar Avenue and the Fourth/Lockett roundabout will reopen on Monday, June 1.

This closure will allow crews to safely perform final roadway striping along Cedar Avenue and within the Fourth/Lockett roundabout, as the striping that was completed last fall was temporary for the winter months. This striping effort will be the final work along Cedar Avenue as part of the Spruce Wash Suite of Projects.

2026 Wildland Fire Season: Be ready, stay informed and know your evacuation plan

by AmigosNAZ.com • May 7, 2026 • Comments Off

United States Department of the Interior NATIONAL PARK SERVICE Grand Canyon National Park PO BOX 129 Grand Canyon, AZ 86023 PUBLIC SAFETY NOTICE 2026 Wildland Fire Season: Be Ready, Stay Informed, and Know Your Evacuation Plan As we enter wildfire season,…

Friends of Flagstaff’s Future (F3) — Addressing Misinformation: Flagstaff Regional Land Use Plan 2045

by Community Contributor • May 4, 2026 • Comments Off

City of Flagstaff voters,

There’s a lot of misinformation being spread in our community, on social media and by word of mouth, about ratifying the Flagstaff Regional Land Use Plan 2045.

F3 would like to directly address this misinformation by providing direct answers to specific misinformation. The questions and answers below are taken directly from the City of Flagstaff’s Regional Plan 2045 website FAQs.

Does the Regional Plan 2045 require that all new homes must be electric?

No, there is no policy that directly states that all new homes should be all electric. There is an action item in Chapter 10 to “Update the City Sustainable Building Resolution and Sustainable Residential Building Incentives to further implement net-zero energy standards.” The incentives could include points or options for all electric homes.

North Kaibab Trail access changes begin Oct. 15 for Transcanyon Waterline Project Work

by Community Contributor • May 1, 2026 • Comments Off

GRAND CANYON, Ariz. — Beginning Oct. 15, 2026, at 11:59 p.m., a section of the North Kaibab Trail in Grand Canyon National Park will close to all public access for critical pipeline rehabilitation work on the Transcanyon Waterline. The closure area will be between Redwall Bridge (2.5 miles north of Manzanita Rest Area) and the northern end of Cottonwood Campground.

This hard closure will remain in place through approximately February 2027. There are no alternative routes or detours available through this section of trail. This closure is necessary to ensure the safety of both visitors and work crews operating in a narrow corridor with heavy equipment and active construction.

Friends of Flagstaff’s Future (F3) — Rio de Flag Invasive Plant Removal this Saturday, May 2

by Community Contributor • May 1, 2026 • Comments Off

One of F3’s board members was awarded a Flagstaff Sustainability Office neighborhood grant to remove invasive plants in the section of the Rio de Flag that runs along Thomas Elementary school and reseed with native flowers and grasses.

The second of three plant pull events is happening this Saturday from 9am – noon. Meet at the east entrance to Bushmaster Park.

National Park Service (NPS) — Grand Canyon National Park — South Rim Firewise Cleanup Extended through Sunday, May 3

by Community Contributor • April 29, 2026 • Comments Off

We need your help in preventing wildfire severity! The 2026 Firewise Residential
Cleanup will occur April 18-May 3, 2026.
Please pile all pine needles and woody debris along your residential road in an
area accessible to vehicles for the crew to pick up. Park staff will begin hauling
debris the week of April 27.

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up: April 20-24, 2026

by Community Contributor • April 24, 2026 • Comments Off

Cover photo: The final section of new pipeline for the Transcanyon Waterline Project was installed this week just above the River Trail. (NPS Photo)

Friends of Flagstaff’s Future (F3) — Public Meeting: Community Wildfire Protection Plan Update to be held April 23

by Community Contributor • April 23, 2026 • Comments Off

The Greater Flagstaff Region is hosting a public meeting on April 23 from 5:00-8:00 p, at the Flagstaff Aquaplex for the community to learn about the current process to update the Community Wildfire Protection Plan (CWPP).

Attendees will be able to visit with staff from local fire departments, talk with subject matter experts, and provide comments to inform the CWPP’s development, as well as learn about wildfire risk reduction recommendations for the forest and for homes.

APS may initiate Public Safety Power Shutoff in the Flagstaff area Wednesday, April 22

by Community Contributor • April 22, 2026 • Comments Off

FLAGSTAFF — The City of Flagstaff has been informed that Arizona Public Service (APS) may initiate a Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) in parts of the Flagstaff area tomorrow, Wednesday, April 22 as early as 9 a.m. Some areas on the east side of Flagstaff may lose power during this PSPS event. Customers who are impacted have been directly notified by APS. If your home is impacted, you should begin preparing for 12-24 hours without power.

To prepare for a PSPS:

Friends of Flagstaff’s Future (F3) — Public invited to attend remaining Public Safety Citizen Committee meetings on April 22, 29; May 6, 13

by Community Contributor • April 21, 2026 • Comments Off

Members of the public are invited to attend a series of meetings of the Public Safety Citizen Committee (see schedule below). This Committee is tasked with advising the Mayor and Council on potential ballot measures for the November 2026 election, including funding for Fire, Police, Aircraft Rescue, Wildland Firefighting, and Emergency Management.

The Public Safety Citizen Committee started meeting late last year. F3 is represented on the Committee by Michele James, Executive Director. The Committee has four meetings remaining before its scheduled to submit a recommendation to City Council. The Committee is exploring a potential sales tax increase and a city bond to provide a yet-to-be-determined amount of needed funding that cannot be covered by the City’s General Fund.

Page 1 of 11

1 2 3 … 11 »