Senate urges naming West Valley Highway for former Gov. Norman H. Bangerter; governor attends floor ceremony

SALT LAKE CITY — The Utah Senate unanimously passed a concurrent resolution Feb. 11 urging the Utah Transportation Commission to name the West Valley Highway for former Governor Norman H. Bangerter.

Senator Christiansen introduced SCR13 citing Bangerter’s role securing roughly $55,000,000 in funding and guiding the project from planning into construction. The resolution expresses appreciation for his leadership in addressing transportation needs on the west side of the Salt Lake Valley and asks that copies be sent to former Governor Bangerter and the Utah Transportation Commission.

The body resolved itself into a committee of the whole to hear from the former governor. Bangerter, who attended with his wife, spoke briefly and said he was more concerned that the highway be completed than about the naming. “But if you do name it the Bangerter Highway, I hope you'll keep the potholes fixed,” he said, drawing laughter.

Senators from both parties praised Bangerter’s long-term focus on transportation and economic development. Senator Reese, introducing the presentation, credited Bangerter’s leadership with stimulating economic growth and jobs during his administration. The Senate placed the resolution for final passage under suspension of rules and recorded a vote of 27 ayes, no nays and 2 absent. The resolution will be transmitted for the governor’s signature and a copy sent to the Utah Transportation Commission.

Next steps: SCR13 will be enrolled, signed by the president, and forwarded to the governor and to the commission for consideration of formal naming.