Study Overview

Flagstaff enjoys a tourism boost after abundant snowfalls. The snow attracts visitors eager to ski, sled, and play outdoors. Unfortunately, the visitors that Flagstaff attracts also cause extreme winter traffic congestion along the U.S. 180, the primary route to the ski and snow play areas.

In response to the frustration felt by the local community including neighborhood groups, emergency responders, and area businesses, the Flagstaff Metropolitan Planning Organization (FMPO) is undertaking a study to identify and evaluate solutions to Flagstaff's winter congestion challenges. The study has recommended implementable immediate, mid-term, and long-term alternatives to ease the peak weekend winter traffic congestion.

Current Updates & Progress

Completed in 2012, this effort identifying solutions for heavy winter traffic is being updated with efforts by the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) and Northern Arizona Intergovernmental Public Transportation Authority (NAIPTA) in 2018. FMPO is a participant in both of these efforts.

ADOT is examining permanent alternatives within the existing corridor and on alternate routes. NAIPTA is evaluating how transit can address peak winter traffic congestion and if a temporary egress route could help relieve pressure on the corridor.

Follow progress on the ADOT study.

Review Project Documents

• Existing Traffic Conditions - Working Paper 1: Executive Summary (PDF)
• Existing Traffic Conditions - Working Paper 1: Final Report (PDF)
• Winter Economy - Working Paper 2: Executive Summary (PDF)
• Winter Economy - Working Paper 2: Final Report (PDF)
• 08-09 Winter Visitor Study Final (PDF)
• Snowplay Executive Summary (PDF)
• Environmental Impact Statement for Snowbowl, AZ Facilities Improvement
• HDR - FMPO Final Report March 19, 2012 (PDF)
• Working Paper 3 - TAC Approved November 3, 2011 (PDF)
• November 16, 2011 Public Meeting Powerpoint Presentation (PDF)
• November 16, 2011 Public Meeting Handout (PDF)
• November 16, 2011 Public Meeting Comment Form (PDF)

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