WFRC staff report 400+ public comments on draft 2026–2031 TIP; bicycle and transit projects most requested

Wayne (last name not specified), presenting for staff, said the interactive map and three open houses produced over 400 comments on the draft 2026–2031 Transportation Improvement Program. "Between the interactive map and 3 open houses, we've received over 400 comments on the tip," Wayne said. Meeting presenters summarized recurring themes: widespread support for bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure; requests to incorporate safe bicycle/pedestrian accommodations into roadway projects; interest in improving and expanding transit, including the Red/Orange line concept and FrontRunner double tracking; support for the citizen-led Rio Grande plan; and opposition to a road project in Emigration Canyon. Wayne added that several commenters backed specific transit concepts and operational roadway improvements. Ben Worthridge said staff will review all comments with project partners, prepare responses, and transmit location-specific comments to the appropriate jurisdictions and agencies. "Many of you are aware that there's been projects where we've saved money due to the comments received from the public," Worthridge said, noting past adjustments and occasional withdrawal of projects following public feedback. The committee did not take a formal vote on these comments at the meeting; staff said they plan to present final recommendations to Transcom and the regional council as part of the TIP approval schedule. Public comment materials and staff responses will be used in coordination with UTA, UDOT and affected jurisdictions during final project development.