Council directs city-funded traffic study for 1200 East alignment; Hales Engineering low bidder

The Lindon City Council voted Jan. 21 to commission a traffic study for the proposed 1200 East roadway and directed that the city, not the applicant, cover the cost.

City engineering staff recommended Hales Engineering as the low bidder to analyze current and projected traffic volumes and to estimate 2050 traffic with and without the proposed connection. The study will also evaluate potential traffic shifts onto nearby corridors such as 400 East and estimate the proportion of traffic likely to be regional cut-through versus local Lindon trips.

Council debated whether the applicant should pay for the work; several members said the master plan includes the alignment and that city-funded analysis will produce impartial, city-controlled data. Council member Hoyt moved and Council member Stewart seconded a motion that the city pay for the study; the motion passed on a voice vote.

Staff said the selected firm estimated a three-week turnaround once authorized and that the study will provide an exhibit showing a 2050 volume projection. City engineer Noah Gordon had requested proposals from several firms and said any of the respondents were competent but recommended the low bid. Staff also noted the planning commission scheduled for the coming weeks may be delayed to incorporate the study results.

City staff said they will ask Hales Engineering to confirm any additional scope items other proposers included so the report is comprehensive.