PORTLAND, OR — A rapidly growing online petition is calling for the immediate renaming of McLoughlin Boulevard to “McLaughing Boulevard,” arguing that the corridor’s energy could be significantly improved with “more joy, fewer brake lights.”
The proposal, now circulating among residents who have spent at least 40 consecutive minutes in traffic there, suggests transforming the notoriously serious roadway into a full-scale humor district featuring clown crossings, rotating circus tents, and mini stages for local stand-up comedians.
“This road has seen enough,” said petition organizer Trevor M., gesturing solemnly toward a long stretch of asphalt. “It deserves laughter.”
From Traffic Corridor to Comedy Corridor
McLoughlin Boulevard, a major north-south artery connecting Portland to neighboring communities, is widely known for its industrial vibe, tire shops, and existential merging patterns.
But supporters of the petition believe it could become something more.
“We’re not erasing history,” Trevor clarified. “We’re adding punchlines.”
Under the proposal:
- The boulevard would be renamed McLaughing Boulevard
- Giant smiling sculptures would be installed at key intersections
- Traffic medians would host live juggling demonstrations
- Every mile marker would feature a rotating dad joke
One concept rendering shows inflatable whoopee cushions replacing certain road reflectors “for morale.”
“The Commute Should Include a Rimshot”
Local comedians have already expressed interest in performing on the proposed roadside mini stages.
“Why should downtown have all the open mics?” asked a Portland-based stand-up performer. “Let’s bring observational humor to the auto parts corridor.”
Draft plans include:
- Weekly “Rush Hour Roast” sessions
- Pop-up improv troupes between car dealerships
- A traveling mime who refuses to acknowledge construction delays
“It’s immersive theater,” one supporter explained. “But with honking.”
Residents React
Reaction has been mixed.
“I don’t know,” said one longtime commuter. “It’s hard to picture juggling next to an alignment shop.”
Others were more enthusiastic.
“If I’m stuck in traffic, I’d rather watch a clown on a unicycle than a billboard for brake pads,” said another resident.
Tourism advocates also weighed in, suggesting the rebrand could attract visitors seeking “the lighter side of infrastructure.”
City Officials Respond
A city spokesperson confirmed the proposal is under “preliminary review.”
“We are evaluating whether laughter-based zoning adjustments are feasible,” the official stated. “We must also determine if juggling interferes with traffic signals.”
Critics have raised concerns about safety, noise, and whether renaming a major road for a pun sets a dangerous precedent.
In response, petition supporters pointed out that the city already contains multiple streets named after trees.
“Why not one named after joy?” Trevor asked.
Signature Count Rising
As of press time, the petition had gathered thousands of signatures and at least one unsolicited clown audition tape.
Organizers say the next step is a pilot program: one weekend of circus-themed traffic management to “test the vibe.”
“If it works,” Trevor said confidently, “we expand.”
If approved, McLaughing Boulevard would become the nation’s first officially humor-enhanced roadway, complete with a slogan printed on new street signs:
“Expect Delays. Experience Joy.”
