In what is being reported as a breakthrough, leaders of the Gila River Indian Community say they are open to a freeway on the reservation.

The tribe previously said it wasn't interested in hosting part of the South Mountain Freeway. But talks with local and state officials could lead to a deal that would involve a land swap for the tribe.

"This is the first time ever that all the parties have been in a same room together," Phoenix Councilman Sal DiCiccio told The Arizona Republic. "We have a long ways to go, but this is an extremely positive first step."

The state would have to compensate the tribe for the use of its land.

Get the Story:
Loop 202 could find a new path (The Arizona Republic 12/16)
Meeting opens the way to possible freeway alternative (The Ahwatukee Foothill News 12/15)