The Sedona Tourism Advisory Board (TAB) meeting held on October 1, 2025, focused on ongoing traffic management strategies and infrastructure improvements aimed at enhancing visitor experience and reducing congestion in the city. The discussions highlighted the progress made since the initiation of a master plan in 2017, which was developed in response to increasing traffic issues following the Great Recession.
Key among the strategies discussed was the Uptown traffic improvement plan, which has successfully reduced travel times significantly. The implementation of median fencing, additional travel lanes, and roundabouts has transformed travel efficiency, cutting travel times from the Rainbow Trout Farm to the Wye from up to an hour to just 15 minutes. The board also addressed the introduction of a "zipper merge" technique to improve traffic flow, emphasizing the importance of educating both locals and visitors on its benefits.
The meeting also touched on pedestrian improvements, including potential overcrossing structures in Uptown, although these are not currently prioritized in the budget. The board acknowledged the need for better education on traffic management strategies, particularly regarding roundabout usage and zipper merging, to alleviate confusion among visitors.
Another significant topic was the construction of a new parking garage, which aims to centralize parking and reduce congestion caused by drivers searching for spaces. The garage will be complemented by a residential permit parking program to manage overflow in nearby neighborhoods. The board is also exploring dynamic pricing for parking to optimize usage.
Additionally, the meeting addressed the completion of a pedestrian undercrossing at State Route 179, which includes a glow-in-the-dark feature to enhance visibility. The board is working with the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) on adaptive signal control measures to further improve traffic management at key intersections.
In conclusion, the Sedona TAB is actively pursuing a comprehensive approach to traffic and parking management, with ongoing projects aimed at improving the overall visitor experience while addressing the challenges posed by increased tourism. The board's efforts reflect a commitment to balancing the needs of residents and visitors in a growing tourist destination.