In a recent meeting held by the Utah County Commission, discussions centered around significant infrastructure changes aimed at improving traffic flow and accommodating future growth. The focus was primarily on the proposed modifications to the I-15 corridor, particularly concerning the 100 South interchange.
As the meeting unfolded, officials outlined a plan to lower the elevation of I-15 to align with the existing railroad tracks. This adjustment would allow 100 South to rise over both the interstate and the tracks, creating a new interchange. However, the proposal faced considerable challenges. Widening 100 South to handle projected traffic increases would necessitate relocating 33 properties and impacting over 90 different properties, raising concerns about the potential disruption to the community.
Moreover, the plan posed risks to archaeological sites, which are protected under federal regulations. Given these substantial impacts, the commission decided to eliminate the 100 South concept from consideration.
The conversation then shifted to alternative designs, including a split interchange that would direct traffic off I-15 onto a new structure at 1550 West. This option, while initially promising in terms of traffic performance, was also discarded due to its adverse effects on historic sites and aquatic resources.
Ultimately, the commission found a more viable solution in the Center Street concept. This plan not only met the essential traffic needs but also minimized impacts on aquatic resources and historic properties, while requiring the fewest relocations. As the meeting concluded, it was clear that the Center Street concept would pave the way for a more sustainable and community-friendly approach to the region's transportation challenges.