UDOT outlines FrontRunner 2X plan to double commuter‑rail frequency; construction eyed for 2027–2030
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Summary
UDOT told Sunset City officials the FrontRunner 2X project will add double‑tracking in 11 segments, new stations and maintenance facilities to cut peak headways from 30 to 15 minutes; design is underway and construction could start in early 2027 pending federal funding.
UDOT project staff presented the FrontRunner 2X plan to the Sunset City Council on Jan. 20, describing an 83‑mile commuter rail program that the agency says would double peak‑hour service frequency by extending double track in key locations and adding rolling stock and facilities.
"The purpose of our project is to increase the train frequency by at least double during peak hours," said a UDOT deputy project director, describing a shift from 30‑minute to 15‑minute service during rush hours and from 60 to 30 minutes off‑peak. Presenters said the corridor has reached about 90% capacity during peak direction and that the change will require 11 double‑tracking segments, 10 new train sets, a new station near Bluffdale and a new maintenance facility.
The project team said environmental study work is largely complete and the program is in an advanced design phase. A joint‑venture contractor, identified as Frontrunner Forward Partners, has been selected. Officials said construction is anticipated to start in early 2027, with major work through 2029 and completion targeted by 2030 to support increased demand and planned large events.
Council members asked about local impacts: potential property easements, utility relocations, staging areas in Sunset and noise and vibration mitigation measures. UDOT staff said detailed property impacts have not been finalized and that many impacts are likely to be easements or utility work; they committed to returning with more detailed maps and property impact information once design advances. For noise and vibration, presenters said mitigations under consideration include spring rail frogs and ballast mats to reduce vibration near affected residences.
Project materials and a short explainer video were offered to council and residents; staff urged continued coordination with Sunset City staff and promised more public outreach and neighborhood meetings as construction approaches. The agency said the program is seeking a federal FTA grant to finance the work, and that timelines depend on funding decisions.
Next steps: UDOT will continue design and public outreach and return to local councils with maps and property‑impact details when available.