The Utah Transportation Commission has approved nearly $1.4 billion in funding for the Utah Department of Transportation (UDOT) to address rapid population growth in northwest Utah County by building two new freeways and extending another. This investment, part of a $2.1 billion initiative through the decade, targets Cedar Valley, specifically the cities of Lehi, Saratoga Springs, and Eagle Mountain. Key projects include converting 2100 North in Lehi to a freeway, adding flex lanes to Pioneer Crossing, extending the Mountain View Corridor to Cory Wride Highway, and constructing a new freeway from Mountain View Corridor to Ranches Parkway. These projects aim to improve mobility, reduce congestion, and provide alternative travel options. Construction for these projects is expected to begin between 2025 and 2027.
UDOT Press Release
UDOT to address explosive growth,with two new freeways and a freeway extension
The Utah Transportation Commission has greenlit an ambitious slate of new transportation projects totaling nearly $1.4 billion for northwest Utah County. The funding will help the Utah Department of Transportation (UDOT) build two new freeways and a freeway extension. This new funding, combined with previously approved projects, represents a $2.1 billion investment into this area through the end of the decade.
These vital initiatives aim to address the growing transportation needs of the region, particularly in the cities of Lehi, Saratoga Springs, and Eagle Mountain because of tremendous population growth. Utah County is projected to grow faster than Salt Lake, Davis and Weber County combined by the year 2050, according to the Gardner Policy Institute.
“This significant investment represents our commitment to building a transportation system that meets the needs of all Utahns,” UDOT Executive Director Carlos Braceras said. “As we continue to grow as a state, we will work to find transportation solutions to help everyone get to where they want in the way they want.”
Among the key new projects approved are:
- Conversion of 2100 North to a freeway in Lehi: $554 million (including $275 in new funding): This project will extend the freeway connection along 2100 North between Mountain View Corridor and I-15, and will help improve east-west mobility between the two freeways in northwest Utah and Salt Lake Counties and help to disperse traffic more efficiently for drivers traveling to communities within the central Utah Valley area. The project will also connect existing and planned trails in the area to help people to get to their destinations and provide easier access through communities. Construction is expected to start in 2026.
- Pioneer Crossing Flex Lanes: $77 million: This project would provide two additional travel lanes in the peak direction of travel depending on the time of day (just like 5400 South in Salt Lake County). The project would also re-stripe Pioneer Crossing from Redwood Road to MVC to provide one additional travel lane in each direction throughout the day. Most work is expected to be completed within the existing state right of way. Construction is expected to start as early as 2025 or 2026.
- Extension of Mountain View Corridor South to Cory Wride Hwy (SR-73): $553 million: This project will extend Mountain View Corridor to Cory Wride Hwy (SR-73) in Saratoga Springs. It will help reduce congestion on Redwood Road and I-15 around the Point of the Mountain by providing an alternative freeway connection for traffic traveling between northwest Utah County and Salt Lake County. The project will also include trails and trail connections to provide Utahn more choices for their travel. Construction is expected to start as early as 2027.
- Cory Wride Freeway (SR-73) From Mountain View Corridor to Ranches Parkway: $459 million: This project will construct a new freeway with frontage roads from Mountain View Corridor to Ranches Parkway in Eagle Mountain. The project will ease congestion in the area, accommodate transit, bike lane and trail improvements, minimize impacts to existing properties and preserve access to existing developments. Construction is expected to start as early as 2027.
These new projects represent the state’s biggest transportation investment in Utah County since the I-15 CORE project wrapped in 2012. That project reconstructed 24 miles of freeway from Lehi to Spanish Fork. These new projects underscore the Utah State Legislature’s substantial commitment to bolstering transportation infrastructure in northwest Utah County.
“We are grateful for this opportunity to improve travel through northwest Utah County,” UDOT Region Three Director Rob Clayton said. “These projects will greatly benefit both the residents and travelers in the region, ensuring better commutes and improved connectivity.”
As the population in the area continues to grow, Clayton added, UDOT remains steadfast in its commitment to meet increasing travel demands and elevate our road, transit, pedestrian, commuter, bike, and freight travel capabilities.
Mike Kieffer – Editor-in-Chief, Cedar Valley Sentinel
Mike Kieffer is a dynamic leader and community advocate based in Eagle Mountain, Utah. He serves as the Editor-in-Chief of the Cedar Valley Sentinel, a local publication dedicated to informing, inspiring, and elevating the Cedar Valley community through honest and accurate journalism. With a passion for fostering connections, Kieffer has made it his mission to highlight local businesses, provide reliable news, and support community development.
Beyond his editorial role, Kieffer is the owner of Lake Mountain Media, LLC, a company specializing in media and communications, and the co-owner of Quail Run Farms, which focuses on sustainable farming and community engagement. He also actively contributes to the local economy and culture as a member of the Eagle Mountain Chamber of Commerce.
Kieffer’s dedication extends to preserving and promoting the history and heritage of the Cedar Valley area. He often participates in community-centered events and media, including podcasts that explore the unique aspects of life in the region. Through his varied endeavors, he remains a steadfast advocate for the growth and enrichment of the local community.