Sun Valley Co. to enhance landscape

Tree removal, replanting part of the plan

by REBECCA MEANY

Landscape and sign improvements are coming to Sun Valley Resort, following approval by the city's Planning & Zoning Commission.

Sun Valley Co. submitted a design review application—which goes to the P&Z but not through City Council—for enhancements beginning near the stoplight at Sun Valley and Dollar roads, mostly along Trail Creek Road.

Project representative Kurt Eggers appeared before commissioners at a public hearing April 26 to gather input on designs.

"The main focus is along the corridor, just trying to beautify that," he said.

Community Development Director Mark Hofman called the improvements "a step above repair and maintenance."

"It includes hardscape, pavers, fencing, similar to what's further out Trail Creek, and extensive changes to existing landscaping," Hofman said. "That's why it's before you."

According to a staff report, the enhancements will improve each of the four entries to the resort core and update the overall appearance of the Trail Creek Road area. Some existing trees will be removed due to disease, but many will be replaced.

"This is something that could have been handled at the staff level," said Commission Chair Ken Herich. "Mark [Hofman] decided it's highly visible, we should involve the public, and so, to kick it up to Planning and Zoning, advertise the meeting, let the public come in and talk, gives us at least that other layer, that additional layer of openness. And I think it was a smart move on staff's part."

Sun Valley Co. hopes to complete the project in time for the Allen & Co. annual mogul retreat in July.

Rebecca Meany: rmeany@mtexpress.com

The Idaho Mountain Express is distributed free to residents and guests throughout the Sun Valley, Idaho resort area community. Subscribers to the Idaho Mountain Express will read these stories and others in this week's issue.