There are two projects occurring along McKellips Road in north Tempe:

1) Installation of a roundabout (replacing the existing traffic signal) at McKellips Road and College Avenue

2) Streetscape improvements on McKellips between College Avenue and Scottsdale Road

Roundabout

Roundabouts are circular intersections that move traffic counterclockwise around a center island, and are used nationwide because of their proven safety benefits and reduced maintenance costs. They also have sustainability benefits since they do not require electricity and don’t require ongoing maintenance of equipment and can include landscaping, shade and water harvesting.

Public Comments and Meetings

• Public meetings were held on Aug. 28, 2018 and Nov. 4, 2024.
• Watch the video from the November 4, 2024 meeting. 
• Public comment was aken from Aug. 28 to Sept. 11, 2018. 

Documents

• November 4, 2024 PowerPoint presentation PDF
• August/September 2018 Public Comments PDF
• View the draft design concept for McKellips and College PDF.

Contact: Cathy Hollow, 480-350-8445, catherine_hollow@tempe.gov 

Streetscape Project

In response to residents’ concerns about vehicle speed, safety, and noise, Tempe prepared alternatives for the corridor along McKellips Road from Scottsdale Road  to College Avenue. The proposed improvements may include speed cushions, pedestrian enhancements, and landscaping with water harvesting. Your feedback will help determine a preferred alternative for McKellips Road.

Public Comment and Meetings

• Public meetings were held April 28, 2025. Watch the April 28, 2025 meeting video. 
• Public comment was taken from April 28 to May 14, 2025. Read the public comments from April to May 2025 PDF
• April 28, 2025 PowerPoint Presentation PDF

Timeline

Concrete work will likely begin in 2026.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the design speed of the street?  The roadway geometry (taper, merge, etc.) was designed for 35 mph.
2. Are any ADA ramps being rebuilt along McKellips Road?  Yes, updates to ramps will be included with the paving project
3. Where are the driveways for the new apartment complex at the northwest corner of Scottsdale & McKellips and will there be a deceleration lane on McKellips?  The plans for the Tempe Gateway project show only one driveway along McKellips Road at Cavalier Dr.  At the time the development was approved, there was not a need for a turn lane due to excess capacity along the 5-lane section of McKellips Road. 
4. Will trees be planted and what is the plant palette?  With the underground utilities that fall in the planter areas, we do not anticipate enough separation will be available to plant trees, however we can plant native cacti and shrubs.  The project will use green stormwater infrastructure best management practices to ensure as much rainwater capture as possible.

Contact: Cory Steele, 480-350-8428, cory_steele@tempe.gov