Payson residents advocate for roundabout at McLean and Longhorn for safety improvements

Payson residents are poised to see significant improvements in traffic safety and efficiency following strong support for a proposed roundabout at the intersection of McLean and Longhorn. During the Payson Town Council meeting on July 9, 2025, community members voiced their backing for the roundabout, citing compelling safety statistics from the Arizona Department of Transportation.

Advocates highlighted that roundabouts can lead to a staggering 90% reduction in fatal crashes and a 75% decrease in injury crashes. Additionally, they noted a potential 30% to 40% reduction in pedestrian accidents and a 10% decrease in bicycle crashes. The roundabout is also expected to enhance traffic flow, particularly during peak times such as school dismissals, alleviating congestion at the busy intersection.

Tom Dunning, a long-time resident and frequent user of the intersection, emphasized the roundabout's benefits, arguing that it would not only improve safety for vehicles but also for pedestrians. He addressed concerns about the learning curve for high school students, asserting that roundabouts are safer than traditional stop signs and would help clear traffic jams.

The financial implications of the project were also discussed, with Dunning warning that abandoning the roundabout could leave Payson taxpayers responsible for approximately $1.5 million. This financial burden, combined with the potential safety and efficiency gains, has led to a strong push for the roundabout's implementation.

As the council considers the proposal, the community remains hopeful that this initiative will enhance safety and improve traffic conditions in Payson. The next steps will involve further discussions and planning to bring the roundabout to fruition, marking a proactive approach to addressing the town's transportation challenges.