UDOT unveils $250M plan for Big and Little Cottonwood Canyon improvements

On June 15, 2023, the Transportation Coordinating Committee convened in Wasatch County, Utah, to discuss significant transportation projects and funding initiatives aimed at improving mobility in the region. A key focus of the meeting was the proposed tolling system for Big and Little Cottonwood Canyons, which aims to alleviate traffic congestion and enhance public transit options.

The committee highlighted the challenges of maintaining current data collection systems for traffic monitoring, noting that federal guidelines now discourage the expansion of these systems. Instead, the focus is shifting towards innovative data collection methods that can provide essential information for infrastructure maintenance and improvements.

One of the most ambitious projects discussed involves a $250 million initiative to enhance bus services, improve bus stops, and implement tolling infrastructure in the Cottonwood Canyons. This project is part of a broader regional transportation plan approved by the Wasatch Front Regional Council, which aims to address the increasing traffic demands in these popular recreational areas. Currently, the project has secured $192 million in funding, leaving a shortfall of $53 million that needs to be addressed.

The proposed tolling system is designed to reduce traffic by approximately 30%, encouraging visitors to utilize public transit instead of private vehicles. This approach aims to improve mobility and reliability for all users, including skiers and outdoor enthusiasts. However, the tolling proposal has sparked debate among committee members regarding its effectiveness and the need for further analysis. Some members expressed concerns about the potential impact of tolling on low-income families and the overall feasibility of the plan.

Josh Vanjern, the project manager for the environmental study, provided insights into the anticipated timeline for the project, indicating that design and procurement could take about two years, with hopes of implementing the new services by the 2025-2026 ski season. The committee emphasized the importance of ongoing analysis to assess the tolling's impact on traffic patterns and user behavior.

In conclusion, the discussions at the Transportation Coordinating Committee meeting underscored the complexities of managing transportation in rapidly growing areas like Cottonwood Canyons. As the committee moves forward with these initiatives, the focus will remain on balancing the need for improved mobility with the potential economic and social implications of tolling and other transportation strategies. The next steps will involve securing the remaining funding and continuing to engage with the community to refine these plans.