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City hears update on Outdoor Recreation Strategic Plan; community engagement next
Summary
Consultants presented a draft outdoor recreation strategy for Payson focusing on park investment, trail connections, Forebay area enhancements and event growth; the next phase emphasizes community engagement, with a public survey expected in August and a final draft due winter 2026.
Payson City heard an update July 15 on the development of an Outdoor Recreation Strategic Plan intended to guide long‑term investments and programming. Senior Planner Anders Bake introduced consultants Michael Clawson and David Nicholas, who summarized site visits, mapping, regional economic research and recommended investments in parks, trail connections, Forebay Recreation Area enhancements and multi‑use amenities to strengthen Payson's outdoor recreation economy.
The presenters said the plan aims to "enhance quality of life, strengthen downtown and local businesses, attract and retain businesses and workforce," and that the "next phase of the project will focus on community engagement." Councilmembers encouraged broad outreach including an open house and survey; Robert Mills noted that reliable data on lodging and short‑term rentals is limited. A public survey is anticipated in August and a final draft is expected in winter 2026.
Council discussion emphasized potential business benefits from outdoor recreation, improvements to trail and parking connections, and the need to understand community willingness to support investments.
