As I have predicted in my previous post, Wednesday it was reported on the front page of the Arizona Republic the Gila Indian River Community has “agreed to start what could be delicate talks towards reaching a pact to move the proposed freeway”… away from the current ADOT proposed route on Pecos RD. Many current home owners in the Ahwatukee and west Chandler have thought the alignment would have a direct impact on the value of their homes. With foreclosures and short sales all too prevalent in the Phoenix metro area, the current Pecos alignment is a concern to many.
One possible option would require a land swap with the tribe and the federal government of wilderness land in the Sierra Estrella area. A Gila River spokesperson indicated their Governor would be sending a formal letter to ADOT suggesting the realignment.
This is still a long way from any consensus. As ADOT spokesman, Matt Burdick said “If something comes of this effort, it will take a combination of diplomacy, policy, technical analysis and financial resources.”
Well at least they are talking and a different solution is close to being on the table for review.
