While no decision has been reached yet on whether to close or plow State Route 89A in Oak Creek Canyon this winter, several residents and businesses are letting their voices be heard.

The Sedona Chamber of Commerce is asking businesses and residents to write letters to their legislators about the importance of not closing the route.

Sedona Chamber President and CEO Jennifer Wesselhoff requested she be notified of the letters being sent, and so far hundreds have been forwarded to state and federal officials.

The chamber president said she thinks once the Arizona Department of Transportation and state legislators realize keeping this road open is of the utmost importance, something could be worked out.

The letter writing campaign is being used to let both government groups know the large number of people who would be affected and types of impacts.

In a letter from Wesselhoff to community leaders, she thanked them for their willingness to reach out to state and local officials regarding the potential closure of State Route 89A due to snow.

In the letter to the community, Wesselhoff included a contact list for state legislators and a draft template letter.

“We believe that this is a commerce and a safety issue and it will have a devastating impact on our business community,” she said.

The Sedona Main Street Program is asking business owners to consider sending a letter to state and local officials regarding the negative impact of the potential closure of 89A.

The city of Sedona is in a holding pattern to determine if it could partner with another entity to keep the route plowed this winter.

“We have a call in to ADOT but haven’t received any firm numbers or options since the last conversation with [ADOT Director] John Halikowski,” said Sedona Assistant City Manager Alison Zelms.

Rod Wigman, who works out of the ADOT Show Low office, said no final decision has been reached but expects one soon.

ADOT initially wanted to start the closures Monday, Dec. 14, in order to allow hunters to return home. Hunting season ends on that date.

Wigman said the issue remains the same as it has been since the cuts were discussed and announced — lack of funds.

“We are still looking for money,” he said, mentioning all alternatives and options for ADOT are now on the table.

What ADOT would not like to do is cut a dramatically needed service with high demand for services not used much.

ADOT has spoken with local leaders and knows their concerns, and this week the government entity is meeting informally to discuss alternatives.

“We are trying to find money to keep [services] the same as usual,” he said.

While a decision has to be made by Dec. 14, Wigman expects a decision to be coming very soon, possibly by the end of the week.

Michael Maresh can be reached at 282-7795, ext. 125, or e-mail mmaresh@larsonnewspapers.com