Princess leads effort to patch roads

Residents of Montezuma Creek came together in an inspiring act of service to address a long-standing community concern — the deteriorating highway connecting Arizona and Utah.
Led by Miss Montezuma Creek Elementary School Princess 2024–2025 and her family, volunteers from across the area took action after exhausting all other options and resources to have their road repaired.
For years, this vital roadway has served as a main route for school buses, healthcare workers, teachers, and elders, yet massive potholes made travel increasingly hazardous.
The stretch between Rutherford and the Montezuma Creek Post Office had become particularly dangerous, posing risks for those commuting daily for work, school, and healthcare services.
“We were hoping to cover more holes, but we did what we could,” said community member Francine Sam, who helped organize the effort.
“Everyone who donated or volunteered made a difference — our roads are safer because of you. Thanks to Running Horse Petroleum, and those who donated.”
The event, held on November 2, was supported by Running Horse Petroleum and numerous donors who contributed materials and funds.
Volunteers worked diligently to fill potholes using Quikrete Patch Mix and other materials purchased through community donations. The team also ensured proper traffic control and safety for drivers during the project.
What made the initiative especially meaningful was the leadership of Miss Montezuma Creek Elementary Princess, who wanted to dedicate one of her final acts before giving up her crown to a project that directly benefits her community.
“This is about helping our elders, our students, and everyone who depends on this road every day,” her family shared. “If we can make it safer, that’s worth every bit of effort.”
The Montezuma Creek community hopes this grassroots effort will inspire further support and highlight the need for long-term infrastructure solutions in rural areas.
Until then, they’ve shown what can happen when unity, youth leadership, and local pride come together — one pothole at a time.