JEDDITO, Ariz. – On August 25, Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren visited Ja’di to’, also known as Jeddito, where nearby watering points were once used by antelope that crossed through the land.
Extended families who were relocated due to the Navajo/Hopi Relocation call this place Jeddito “Island.”
During this visit, President Nygren met with the Jeddito Chapter to lead a discussion that addressed numerous projects relating to the draw down of ARPA and RRR funds for projects and infrastructure improvements.
The chapter also shared concerns regarding the community cemetery, where fencing and signage is needed. Artificial flowers and decorations from grave sites end up in resident’s yards and inappropriate gatherings occur near the area that is supposed to serve as a resting place for loved ones.
As a response, the chapter shared that this process is in progress, and they have quotes for the fencing but are waiting for a response from Division of Community Development.
Another key topic was the Housing Improvement Project, where roofing repairs are needed for both the chapter building and resident’s homes. A list of individuals requiring roof replacements has been collected. In response, President Nygren advised the chapter to craft a funding plan that prioritizes old and new projects.
The last topic of discussion was the need for road improvements, especially since there are four NDOT and BIA routes in the area. Each route faces its own unique challenges: one requires a bridge, another needs to be graveled, a third is prone to flooding and needs a culvert to reduce delays when it rains and the last is too sandy that needs an assessment.
In closing, the chapter expressed their gratitude for President Nygren’s time and effort for meeting with Jeddito chapter.
“For every maintenance job we do, it’s not just about repairs, it’s a commitment to working with the community every step of the way,” President Nygren said.
