SR 89A reopens nearly a month after Pocket Fire broke out north of Sedona

PHOENIX (AZFamily) — A state highway in northern Arizona has reopened after a nearly month-long closure as crews continue gaining control of a wildfire burning near Sedona.

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Monday morning, State Route 89A reopened in both directions between Sedona and Interstate 17 (mileposts 374-397) near Flagstaff. The highway had been closed to everyone except area residents due to the Pocket Fire, which broke out about seven miles north of Sedona on June 19.

In addition, restrictions have been lifted for some area residents. The communities of Seven Canyons and Enchantment have been placed back to “READY” status after a week of heightened fire risk. Oak Creek Canyon has also been downgraded from “SET” back to “READY” status.

The Pocket Fire has burned an estimated 27,393 acres and is 76% contained as of Monday morning. Approximately 862 personnel are assigned to the wildfire.

While some restrictions have been eased, travelers and area residents should watch for continued fire suppression efforts and the possibility of intermittent road closures.

Monsoon activity could also impact firefighting efforts. See the latest forecast here.

Fire impacts northern Arizona tourism

The weeks-long shutdown during peak tourism season dealt a financial blow to businesses in the canyon that depend heavily on summer visitors.

AJ’s in the Canyon was among the businesses affected. Owner Jessica Johnson said this time represents a critical stretch for revenue.

“Especially June and July is our peak season,” she said. “At least 50% of our revenue just in like eight weeks.”

Johnson said local customers showed up on reopening day to show their support.

“I think they are intentionally trying to support us, and it just means so much to us,” she said.

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Forest House Resorts, located further up the canyon, was also forced to evacuate at the start of the fire. Owner Jenny Kittredge said it was a hard day on them and their guests.

“It was terrifying to do that, and a lot of our guests had no idea what to do. Some had to stay at the Red Cross shelter,” Kittredge said.

Kittredge’s grandfather built the resort in the 1930s. She said the fire raised fears about the property’s survival.

“The house that we lived in, it’ll be 95 years old, but we didn’t know if that was going to stick around or if that’s going to be gone,” she said.

Kittredge said the resort continued paying employees throughout the closure, despite losing revenue during what is typically the busiest stretch of the year.

“Our employees were really worried,” she said. “We have about a staff of a dozen, and a lot of them expressed fear in not knowing what to do next. It’s their busiest time, and they rely on this every week for their livelihood.”

Both Johnson and Kittredge said the canyon community supported one another during the closure and are now calling on visitors to return.

“We’re here, and we’re doing the best we can, and it’s still beautiful,” Johnson said. “There’s no signs of fire or any damage. It’s still gorgeous Oak Creek Canyon.”

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