What should Sedona do with the 100s of acres of land it owns west of town?
What can Sedona's 230+ acre property 5 miles west of town become if we: 1) Annex it 2) Master plan it's long term future.
AND WORK WITH ADOT TO BUILD A ROUNDABOUT ON SR 89A FOR SAFE ACCESS TO THE DELLS
Imagine a tomorrow where the Dells stand as Sedona’s shimmering centerpiece—a remarkable blend of nature, community, and forward-thinking design. Envision turning roughly 230 city-owned acres (conveniently close to our water facility) into the city’s crowning glory. Picture a 30- to 50-acre, master-planned community park that not only holds its own among Arizona’s finest but also competes with the best in the West.
Think of crystal-clear lakes—fed by our high-quality reclaimed water—surrounded by lush grassland, newly planted groves of trees, and winding pathways for walkers, joggers, and cyclists. Only five minutes from Sedona’s core, this exceptional landscape could soon be our most beloved recreational retreat.
Beyond that expansive public haven, more than 175 remaining acres await thoughtful planning. In time, this larger parcel could integrate an engaging mix of housing options, public gardens, recreational features, or other community-driven concepts that reflect
Sedona’s evolving identity.
Annexation and Western Gateway
By 2025, the City of Sedona is actively pursuing the annexation of this entire property into the city limits. Once that process is complete, the Dells will officially be a part of Sedona. After that, it will be time to think big, romantically, boldly, and even spiritually, about creating this 30- to 50-acre park for Sedona’s long-term future.
By the end of the year, we’ll also learn how the City intends to shape another 40-acre site known as the Western Gateway (the old Cultural Park). If a large outdoor amphitheater doesn’t become part of that design, it could spark a compelling vision for the Dells—why not introduce an environment reminiscent of a fairground within this 30- to 50-acre park? With the right planning, we can weave together music, art, and community gatherings in a setting as inspiring as Sedona’s natural surroundings.
Safe and Efficient Access: A Roundabout Entrance
A visionary plan demands safe, convenient, and welcoming access. Partnering with ADOT to create a roundabout on SR 89A would ensure a smooth, secure, and memorable entry, inviting both residents and travelers to discover all the Dells have to offer.
Champions of Bold Ideas
Landmark parks aren’t built on timid ideas; they arise from ambitious spirits and dedicated efforts. Think of iconic green spaces like Central Park in New York or Golden Gate Park in San Francisco—these places are the product of daring imaginations and unwavering community support.
In 2016, a devoted team first envisioned the potential of the Dells, proposing amphitheaters, parkland, and responsible development. We now have the chance to build on their dreams and make this land an exceptional gathering place.
A Gift for the Future
Securing and shaping the Dells is about tomorrow just as much as it is about today. As the Verde Valley continues to grow, preserving open spaces and creating inspired places to live, relax, and play will be a priceless asset. We have a prime opportunity—and a responsibility—to preserve natural beauty, encourage responsible development, and cultivate opportunities that benefit generations to come.
Yes, bringing this vision to life will require funding and collaboration. But we can’t let financial hurdles or doubt stand in the way of this once-in-a-lifetime legacy. Sedona’s thriving tourism economy holds the potential to power transformative, long-term investments.
Sedona, let’s dream ambitiously, plan meticulously, and build with intention. Let’s make sure that naysayers look upon the Dells and find inspiration in our collective, confident strides forward. After all, the Verde Valley covers more than 700 square miles, with 80% held in the public trust—our shared backyard and source of pride.
Together, let’s shape the Dells into a monument of creativity, inclusivity, and enduring value for everyone.
SEPTEMBER 2015
A report to the Sedona City Manager containing concepts regarding the use of a portion of the Wastewater Treatment Plant designated Area 4 being a portion of the 2014 Sedona Community Plan identified as Community Focus Area 13