Utah transportation officials address I-15 traffic concerns ahead of Olympic preparations

The Council of Governments meeting held on May 15, 2025, in Tooele County, Utah, focused on pressing transportation issues affecting local commuters. A significant concern raised was the increasing congestion on major highways, particularly Interstate 15, where commuters reported spending up to two hours in traffic during peak hours. This situation has led to frustrations among residents, who expressed worries about the lack of funding for necessary road improvements.

Participants discussed the current state of commuter delays, noting that approximately 6% of commuter time is spent stalled in traffic. The conversation highlighted the shift in traffic patterns, with heavy congestion occurring in both directions, unlike previous trends where one direction was typically busier. This change has made it challenging for residents to navigate their daily commutes, especially during rush hours.

The meeting also addressed the potential impact of the upcoming Olympics on transportation funding. Concerns were raised that funding might be disproportionately allocated to areas with Olympic venues, such as Summit and Salt Lake Counties, leaving Tooele County at a disadvantage. Officials acknowledged the need for better infrastructure but indicated that the focus from the Salt Lake organizing committee has been more on investing in transit and green technologies rather than significant roadway improvements.

In response to ongoing traffic issues, state officials mentioned exploring solutions like reversible lanes and shoulder running on Interstate 80 to alleviate congestion. However, they emphasized that the state faces billions in unfunded transportation needs, complicating efforts to address local concerns swiftly.

The meeting concluded with a commitment from local leaders to continue advocating for funding and improvements to the transportation infrastructure, recognizing the urgency of the situation for Tooele County residents.