Council OKs application for $3M federal grant toward Brewer Road roundabout

The Sedona City Council authorized staff on March 24 to apply for FY27 congressional discretionary spending (CDS) to fund a portion of the Sim 5D Brewer Ranger Road roundabout, seeking the typical maximum CDS amount of $3,000,000 toward a project estimated at $5,412,064.

Public Works Director Kurt Harris told council staff submitted the application to meet the NOFO deadline and said the senators requested projects that emphasized stormwater, recharge and environmental benefits; staff applied for the $3,000,000 maximum to maximize possible match funding.

Councilors and members of the public debated the proposal. Tim Perry criticized the roundabout concept and argued Sedona should not accept federal funds that impose designs inconsistent with local preferences; others, including business community representatives, urged accepting available federal infrastructure funding and referenced Sedona in Motion, cautioning staff to work with businesses affected during construction.

Council moved to authorize the application, provision of the required local match, and to allow the city manager to sign necessary documents subject to city attorney approval; the motion passed unanimously. Staff said letters of support had been received from the city, the Chamber of Commerce and NACOG.

Next steps: staff will proceed with the CDS application process and follow up with council on any adjustments or award notifications. If awarded, the city will work with stakeholders and affected businesses on mitigation during construction.