Funds OK’d for Monument Valley

Copyright © 2008
Gallup Independent
By Kathy Helms
Diné Bureau

WINDOW ROCK – The Resources Committee approved the transfer Tuesday of $1,036,679 from the Navajo Parks and Recreation Enterprise Fund to cover project development shortfalls with the Monument Valley Tribal Park Phase I Project.

Chairman George Arthur, sponsor of the legislation, said Navajo Parks and Recreation is participating in development of a project in Monument Valley that is moving at a rapid pace.

Ray Russell of Parks and Rec said the opening date of the View Hotel and Spa is tentatively set for Dec. 17. “We’re probably going to have a definite date Friday from the developers.”

But, of course, there is still some work that needs to be done, according to Arthur. “This legislation that is before you is being considered as an emergency legislation. What’s going to happen is that by the end of the week, certain activities will be in high gear as far as the development is concerned,” he said.

More than $800,000 would go to replace an eight mile section of waterline. The existing 4-inch line, which is more than 30 years old, will be replaced with a 6-inch line. The funding also will cover a three-phase power line upgrade for the Monument Valley Tribal Park area at a cost of $116,000.

Another $120,000 will be spent to procure a “gateway” bronze sculpture for the entrance to the tribal park. The sculpture will feature three bronze, larger-than-life members of a Navajo family to welcome visitors.

Russell said the money to be transferred was generated by park revenue. But due to language added during the budgetary process, approval of the oversight committee became necessary, according to Arthur.

Russell said a meeting is scheduled Friday with all of the consultants who will be providing updates on the various aspects of the Monument Valley project. “This particular legislation will let us proceed with the eight mile water line that will be constructed, as well as a power line that will be constructed,” he said.

Resources also approved legislation sponsored by Chilchinbeto Delegate Roy Laughter granting a right of way to Navajo Tribal Utility Authority to construct, operate and maintain a sewer line extension and sewer lagoon to serve the 92-unit Chilchinbeto Housing Subdivision.

Navajo Engineering and Construction Authority will construct the project.