Utah Transit Authority to Add 70 Miles of Rail in the Next Seven Years

Utah is one of the fastest-growing states in the United States. This population growth will mean more travel demand and increased traffic congestion, especially in the long and narrow urban area known as the Wasatch Front. To meet these challenges, local elected officials along the Wasatch suggested accelerating Utah Transit Authority's (UTA) long-range transportation plan. In 2006, residents approved a quarter-cent sales tax increase to finance 70 mi of light rail and commuter rail as outlined in the long-range plan. These 70 miles make up UTA's Front Lines 2015 project, which consists of five light rail and commuter rail lines. All five projects will be in operation by 2015, 15 years ahead of the original schedule. Lines will offer several benefits to Utah residents, including increasing economic prosperity, reducing fuel costs and pollution, improving mobility for persons with disabilities, and providing jobs.