Commissioners debate funding priorities for multimodal projects including Spring Gulch Road

The Teton County government meeting on May 5, 2025, focused on the funding and prioritization of critical infrastructure projects, particularly the multimodal pathway and Spring Gulch Road. The discussions highlighted concerns over rising project costs and the allocation of available funding.

Commissioner Gardner raised questions about the availability of funds from the 2022 multimodal SPED measure, emphasizing the need for clarity on how much funding remains accessible for ongoing projects. He noted that while SPED funds have been allocated for the current fiscal year, there is uncertainty about potential future revenue from this funding mechanism. The commissioners expressed a desire for a comprehensive overview of the financial status of the projects, particularly in light of rising costs.

The estimated cost for the multimodal project has increased significantly from $9.8 million to approximately $13.4 million, raising concerns about budget allocations. Commissioner Gardner and others voiced their prioritization of the Spring Gulch Road project, which is essential for both vehicle and non-vehicle users. They highlighted the importance of addressing safety and accessibility issues along this heavily used corridor.

Commissioner Bogst suggested reaching out to nonprofit organizations for assistance in closing the funding gap, indicating a collaborative approach to securing additional resources. The commissioners agreed on the need to move forward with the design phase of the multimodal project while also seeking clarity on the implications of funding changes on the overall build grant.

The meeting concluded with a consensus on the importance of prioritizing the Spring Gulch project, while remaining open to exploring funding options for the multimodal pathway as additional information becomes available. The commissioners acknowledged the complexities of managing project costs and funding sources, particularly in the current economic climate.