Committee recommends funding for UTA Vanpool and Sandy Intersection projects

The TransCom Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) convened on March 26, 2025, to discuss key recommendations for carbon reduction projects in the Salt Lake area. The meeting focused on evaluating the benefit-cost ratios of various initiatives, specifically targeting carbon dioxide emissions.

The first item on the agenda was the UTA Vanpool expansion project, which requested $419,000. The committee unanimously recommended funding this request in full. Next, the Sandy Intersection project at 114th South sought $5 million, with the committee recommending $1 million towards its development.

Further discussions included the operating subsidy for UTA services between Salt Lake and Farmington, which requested $5 million. The committee decided to recommend $1 million for this project as well.

The meeting also highlighted the similarities between the projects proposed under the Carbon Reduction Program (CRP) and the Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality Improvement Program (CMAQ), although they are not entirely identical.

Committee members were invited to review and discuss these recommendations, with an emphasis on the decision-making authority resting with the committee. A question arose regarding the possibility of utilizing both CRP and CMAQ funds for a single project, to which the response indicated that it is indeed possible, pending further accounting considerations.

In conclusion, the TAC meeting provided a structured overview of the proposed projects aimed at reducing carbon emissions in the Salt Lake area, with clear recommendations for funding allocations. The committee's next steps will involve further discussions and final decisions on the proposed funding.