PRESS RELEASE
MEEKER | The Town of Meeker has been evaluating the critical need for improved emergency access to and from the Sage Hills Subdivision. Currently, the Sage Hills Subdivision is one of the most vulnerable. It consists of more than 50 residences served by only one primary access route via Sage Ridge Road and Sulphur Creek Road.
The Town Board has identified that this limited access poses significant challenges for emergency response and potential resident evacuation. With the increased wildfire danger, ongoing drought conditions and the activity at the Black Diamond Coal Mine Fire, public safety is a top priority and the need for a secondary access route is of the utmost importance.
“Public safety is our top priority,” said Mayor Travis Day. “The Town Board recognizes that the current limited access in Sage Hills poses a challenge for first responders and resident evacuations.”
Supporting the Town’s decision, Fire Chief Luke Pelloni noted “This area has been identified as a critical safety priority. The project will provide our crews with more direct access, improving our response times during an emergency.”
Construction Details and Safety
In the coming weeks, the Town of Meeker Public Works Department will begin constructing an emergency access route connecting Sanderson Drive at Mimi Circle to Robert Street.
Public Safety: To ensure the safety of Town employees, the public is asked to stay out of the construction area and away from all equipment.
Neighboring Impact: The Town of Meeker will make every reasonable effort to minimize disturbances to neighboring properties during this process.
Usage and Restrictions: This route is designed strictly as a secondary emergency access and will not be open to routine vehicle traffic. Key features include:
Design: The route will be approximately 24 feet wide to accommodate two-way traffic for emergency equipment and will be maintained for winter access.
Access Control: To prevent routine traffic, gates will be installed at the Sage Hills and Sanderson Hills entrances.
Permitted Use: The route will be open to pedestrians and non-motorized bicycles.
Prohibited Use: Motorized vehicles (including OHVs, dirt bikes, etc.) are strictly prohibited except during emergencies.
Private Property: Residents are reminded that the land adjoining the access route is privately owned and subject to trespassing laws.
The Town is coordinating closely with the Meeker Police Department, Meeker Fire Department, and the Rio Blanco County Sheriff’s Department to ensure all agencies have the necessary access to open the route immediately during an emergency incident.
“The Board and staff have worked together to reach a solution that enhances public safety while minimizing the impact to the adjoining neighborhoods,” Day added.
For questions regarding the Sage Hills emergency access project, please contact Meeker Town Hall at 970-878-5344.