ADOT Update: SR-87 South Payson Closure Extended Due To Ongoing Brush Fire

David

3 min read

Post on Jun 14, 2025

4.3

Share

ADOT Update: SR-87 South Payson Closure Extended Due to Unrelenting Brush Fire

Drivers urged to seek alternate routes as wildfire continues to rage near Payson.

The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) has announced a significant extension to the closure of State Route 87 southbound near Payson, Arizona. The closure, initially implemented due to a rapidly spreading brush fire, will remain in effect indefinitely as firefighters continue to battle the blaze. This prolonged closure is causing significant traffic delays and disruptions for commuters and travelers alike.

The wildfire, which ignited [Insert Date of Fire], has consumed [Insert Number] acres and is currently only [Insert Percentage]% contained. Strong winds and dry conditions continue to fuel the fire's growth, presenting ongoing challenges for the firefighting crews. The Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management (DFFM) is leading the response effort, working tirelessly to bring the fire under control.

<h3>SR-87 Closure Details & Impact</h3>

The southbound lanes of SR-87 are closed from [Insert Milepost] to [Insert Milepost], effectively cutting off access to Payson from the south. This closure is impacting:

• Commuters: Residents of Payson and surrounding areas commuting to work in southern Arizona are experiencing significant delays and increased travel times.
• Tourists: The closure is also impacting tourism, disrupting travel plans for visitors heading to Payson and nearby recreational areas.
• Emergency Services: Access to emergency services in the affected area may be hampered by the road closure.

ADOT is urging drivers to avoid the area and seek alternate routes. Drivers are advised to check ADOT's website and social media channels for real-time updates and to plan their journeys accordingly. Detours are in place, but they are significantly longer than the usual route. These detours are adding hours to travel times for many.

<h3>Safety Precautions & Community Support</h3>

With the fire still active, authorities are urging residents and travelers to exercise caution and follow safety guidelines. This includes:

• Staying informed: Monitor news reports and ADOT's website for updates on the fire and road closures.
• Avoiding the area: Unless absolutely necessary, avoid traveling near the fire zone.
• Following instructions: Obey all instructions from law enforcement and fire personnel.

The community has rallied together to support the firefighters and those affected by the fire. Local organizations are collecting donations of food, water, and other essential supplies for firefighters and displaced residents. [Insert Link to Local Donation Organizations if Available].

<h3>Looking Ahead: The Road to Recovery</h3>

The exact timeline for the reopening of SR-87 southbound remains uncertain. ADOT will continue to assess the situation closely and provide updates as they become available. The road's reopening will depend heavily on the progress made by firefighting crews in containing the blaze and ensuring the safety of road users.

It is crucial to remain patient and vigilant. The situation is dynamic, and safety remains the top priority. Regular updates can be found on the ADOT website ([Insert ADOT Website Link]), the ADOT Twitter feed ([Insert ADOT Twitter Link]), and other official channels.

Keywords: SR-87 closure, Payson fire, Arizona wildfire, ADOT, road closure, traffic, detour, Arizona Department of Transportation, Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management, Payson Arizona, wildfire update, brush fire, travel advisory.