Kayenta Township is pleased to announce the completion of a newly reconstructed roadway that provides an important connection between U.S. Highway 160 and U.S. Highway 163. Formerly known as Folgers Lane, the roadway will now be officially identified as West Canyon Drive.
West Canyon Drive serves as a vital transportation corridor within the community. The western entrance from Highway 160 provides convenient access to Sonic Drive-In and is heavily utilized by residents of Kayenta Estates, a residential community managed by Sandstone Housing. The roadway also serves as a designated bus route for Kayenta Unified School District and provides access to Tohdenasshai Shelter.
On the eastern end, West Canyon Drive connects to Highway 163 and provides access to the Kayenta Township Fire Department while also serving as an exit route for the United States Postal Service Kayenta Post Office. To improve pedestrian safety and accessibility, new sidewalks were installed as part of the project.
The reconstruction project was supported by Gordian, which provided construction cost estimating, planning, and project solutions. Sunland Asphalt completed the roadway improvements by pulverizing the existing pavement and reconstructing the roadway with new asphalt, speed bumps, and sidewalks.
Construction activities began on August 24, 2026, and were completed on September 11, 2026. The total project cost was approximately $643,500.
Kayenta Township Commission extends its appreciation to the project partners and contractors for their professionalism, efficiency, and commitment to quality workmanship throughout the reconstruction process.
The completion of West Canyon Drive demonstrates how local tax dollars are invested to improve infrastructure, support economic development, and enhance public safety for residents and visitors alike.
Kayenta Township Project Manager Evelyna Cleveland-Gray emphasized the value of the project, stating, “I am very thankful for the Kayenta Township Commissioners that approved the funds for the project and for believing in our team to follow through with our endeavors. These projects are always a team effort if not a collaboration. I am very happy the endeavor was a success and the emergency personnel, as well as the school buses, have a smoother path to travel. Thank you to the community members for your patience and cooperation through this process. I am also thankful for Gordian and Sunland Asphalt for including the value engineering in this road project.”
As Kayenta continues to grow, infrastructure improvements such as West Canyon Drive will help ensure safe, efficient, and reliable transportation for the community for years to come.
