Eric Rasband, representing the Utah Department of Transportation, briefed the Payson City Council on Dec. 17 about the 800 South interchange project. Rasband said the environmental document re‑evaluation was completed and signed last week, which he called “a major deal” because it allows the project team to begin wetland permit work with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

Rasband told the council designers reviewed the 60% roadway design files with city staff and that the project sits at about 30% design on railroad‑ and UTA‑coordinated elements. He said UDOT will work with the city in January to evaluate phasing options so the project might be broken into smaller, fundable segments: “we're gonna start that effort in January... understand what those would mean, timing, funding,” he said.

On timing, Rasband said the roadway portion currently funded is in phase 1 (2030–32) and the Main Street portion is in phase 2 (2033–42). He cautioned that UDOT does not control funding decisions, which are made by the legislature and the Transportation Commission. The agency is, however, active in right‑of‑way acquisition to secure the corridor for future work.

Council members pressed about local priorities — including an off‑ramp at 800 South that is currently a phase‑2 item — and asked UDOT to keep Payson’s needs prominent in prioritization discussions. Rasband suggested a late‑2026 timeframe when “you might see some dirt” if the program remains on schedule and funding is available, with major construction following in 2027–28.

Mayor and council thanked Rasband and emphasized the need to stay engaged with regional partners to keep the interchange moving forward.