The Grand Canyon School District opposes any attempt by Italian developer Stilo to expand Long Jim Loop Road to facilitate its controversial development which includes thousands of homes and nearly three million square feet of commercial space. 

The school district sent a letter to the Tusayan Town Council making that opposition clear. Although the Town has stated Long Jim Loop Road is not the preferred route to get Italian developer Stilo access to its land holdings at Kotzin, that route is still a possibility given the way the new Forest Service application is currently worded. That application is still under review.

Here is a link to that letter.

Vice Mayor Brady Harris said both the Town and Stilo would prefer a northern route, however the Town Attorney said the ultimate decision would be up to the Forest Service.

Newly elected Mayor Clarinda Vail said she appreciates the school district’s letter informing the Town Council.

The Grand Canyon School District’s opposition is based on Long Jim Loop’s proximity to the town park which is land that the school district owns. That land is also a potential school site and the district has said it would not want to see large amounts of traffic in the area.

The Watchdog first reported on that opposition in 2014 and Stilo’s failed attempt to secure that road in its prior application to the Forest Service which was turned down. Here is a link to that story.