The Wasatch County Regional Council convened on August 17, 2023, to discuss significant developments in regional planning and growth management. The meeting, led by various council members, began with introductions and a warm welcome to new member Dr. Kevin Cromar, appointed by the Air Quality Board.
A key focus of the meeting was the refresh of the Wasatch Choice Regional Vision, a strategic framework designed to coordinate transportation, land use, and economic development across the rapidly growing Greater Wasatch Front. This updated vision aims to address the challenges posed by Utah's status as one of the fastest-growing states in the nation, emphasizing the importance of maintaining quality of life amid ongoing growth.
Mayor Don Ramsey highlighted the collaborative effort involved in this refresh, noting that it reflects the input of numerous stakeholders, including cities, counties, and transportation agencies. The vision outlines four key strategies: enhancing transportation choices, providing diverse housing options, ensuring ample parks and public spaces, and developing vibrant city and town centers.
The council also showcased an interactive map on the Wasatch Choice website, which allows residents to explore the vision in detail, including proposed transportation projects and land use plans. This tool is intended to foster community engagement and transparency as local governments implement the vision.
The meeting concluded with a commitment to ongoing collaboration among various entities to ensure that the Wasatch Choice vision remains a living document, adaptable to the region's evolving needs. The council emphasized that the future quality of life for residents hinges on the choices made today, reinforcing the importance of strategic planning in the face of rapid growth.