Council debates South Hill PUD amendment that would let phase 3 plat record before traffic signal is completed

The Midway City Council discussed a proposed third amendment to the South Hill PUD master plan that would revise language tying phase‑3 project milestones to a traffic signal at Main Street and River Road.

The existing master plan language requires the traffic signal to be installed before the phase‑3 plat can be recorded. The amendment under consideration would permit the phase‑3 plat to be recorded earlier, but would require that the traffic signal be installed before any certificate of occupancy (C of O) is issued for phase‑3 units. Planning staff and representatives of UDOT told the council the traffic signal bid would go out soon and construction would start this year, with completion likely stretching into next year.

Staff emphasized that under either the existing or proposed language, no units in phase 3 would be occupied prior to the traffic signal being installed; the proposed change would instead allow plat recording and potential sale of units before occupancy is allowed. Jeff (project representative, remote) and UDOT project manager Craig Hancock were reported to be comfortable with the proposed language, but Jeff asked the council to consider adding language to ensure the new road connection would not be opened to general traffic until the signal was in place. The council discussed whether any construction or limited use of the connection should be restricted while the intersection upgrades are underway.

Council members also discussed cost-sharing language in the existing agreement that requires the developer to pay 50% of any city costs related to the signal installation. Several members asked staff to review the interlocal agreement and the exact terms — in particular what items the developer would be charged for and whether the city previously paid for certain elements. Staff said the interlocal with UDOT was in place and that Midway City has paid components toward the signal; councilmembers asked staff to provide a contract-level review before finalizing cost-related language.

No final council vote on the South Hill amendment was recorded in the provided transcript excerpt. Staff characterized the proposed change as a legislative action with discretion for the council, and noted potential conditions and findings to consider. Council members asked staff to refine language options to address: (1) whether recorded plats should be allowed before road connections are completed; and (2) how to ensure the traffic-signal installation and any temporary construction access do not create unsafe conditions prior to signal completion.

Because the discussion included potential traffic and safety implications, staff and councilmembers requested follow-up information from UDOT and a contract review of cost-sharing provisions prior to any final action.