Did you know…
- When finished, MVC will extend 35 miles north and south from 1-80 in Salt Lake County to Lehi in Utah County
- MVC will add a new connection between Redwood Road and I-15 in Utah County
- MVC will serve 13 cities across the Wasatch Front
- MVC will include a transit line running along 5600 West
- MVC will evolve into a free-flowing freeway as improvements are made in subsequent construction phases At the ultimate build-out, MVC will be a freeway similar to I-15 with grade-separated interchanges
- The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) cited the MVC environmental review process as an “outstanding example” of helping the public plan for future growth. See details below.
FHWA recognition for MVC Environmental Impact Statement
The Mountain View Corridor Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) has been recognized by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), for Process Improvements, as a part of their 2009 Exemplary Human Environment Initiatives (EHEI).
The EHEIs recognize outstanding examples of transportation projects that either create or improve conditions for human activities while protecting the natural environment. The Mountain View Corridor EIS “Growth Choices” Process is recognized for using a process that helped citizens and elected officials understand how sustainable, context sensitive approaches can be used to plan for future growth.
Transportation Options
Driving in the project area may be challenging during construction. Luckily, there are several alternatives.
TravelWise: UDOT has created a program called TravelWise, a set of strategies and tactics that will help ease the challenge of mobility during construction. Many TravelWise strategies are easy to implement and will help you carry on with your life without sacrificing efficiency, productivity or even money. And hey, you'll be doing us all a service by helping to reduce energy consumption, improve air quality and reduce traffic. For more information visit, www.travelwise.utah.gov.
Public Transit: Public transportation is a great alternative to navigating through construction areas. For light rail and bus maps, schedules and other information about public transportation, please visit www.rideuta.com
Bikes and Trails: Get out and be active! Take advantage of the many bike paths and trails in your community. For more information please visit: http://stateparks.utah.gov/trails
FAQ
We’re happy to answer your questions. Browse through this list of the most commonly asked questions about MVC. Click on the question to see the answer. If you have a question that isn’t answered here, please contact us.
- What is the next step for the Mountain View Corridor?
The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) issued a Record of Decision (ROD) in Fall 2008. The signed ROD completed the environmental process for the Mountain View Corridor and allowed UDOT to proceed with design and construction on projects within the EIS limits.
- When will construction start on the Mountain View Corridor?
The Mountain View Corridor is moving forward with project design, right-of-way acquisition and construction. UDOT plans to begin work in Utah County in late fall 2009 and in Salt Lake County in spring/summer 2010.
- Does the Mountain View Corridor have funding?
The Utah State Legislature allocated $500 million in the 2009 Legislative Session as part of a future-bonding package for start of construction in Salt Lake County. The Transportation Commission had previously designated $230 million for Salt Lake County and $130 million for Utah County. In Salt Lake County, UDOT plans to use those funds to begin work on a 10-mile segment between 9000 South (at approximately 5000 West) and Redwood Road (at approximately 16000 South). In Utah County, the construction area is on 2100 North from Redwood Road to I-15.
- Will you build the Mountain View Corridor in phases?
The MVC team will use a phased construction approach designed to balance transportation needs with available funds. Initial construction includes building two lanes in each direction with signalized intersections where future interchanges will be located. Future construction will build out the remainder of the corridor, including a transit solution and enhancement of the initial construction by adding interchanges and more lanes to achieve a fully functional freeway.
- How long will it take to construct the Mountain View Corridor using the phased approach?
Construction will take place gradually over time, based on the transportation needs in the corridor and the funding that is allocated.
- Will the Mountain View Corridor be “another Bangerter Highway” with stoplights?
Although the initial phase of the Mountain View Corridor (MVC) project will include stoplights like Bangerter Highway, the MVC will evolve into a free-flowing freeway as improvements are made in subsequent construction phases. Bangerter Highway, with intersection widths at approximately 150 feet, was never intended to convert to a freeway system with interchanges. The Mountain View Corridor approach ensures that the project will eventually convert to a freeway.
- What will a freeway in the Mountain View Corridor do to the value of our homes?
Each property and project is unique, which makes it difficult to answer specific questions about how property values may be impacted. However, general information about property owner’s rights and UDOT’s acquisition, appraisal, and relocation process can be accessed on the Mountain View Corridor website at www.udot.utah.gov/mountainview. It may also be accessed on the UDOT website (www.udot.utah.gov) under the “Public” tab, “Project, Studies, and Future Plans” on the first drop-down menu, and “Property Rights and Acquisitions” on the second drop-down menu.
- Are you looking at the impacts of a Mountain View Corridor freeway on air quality?
Air quality is one of the many factors that were evaluated in the Environmental Impact Statement process, and the project meets or exceeds the air quality standards set by state and federal agencies. The Mountain View Corridor is also addressing air quality by providing a balanced transportation solution with transit, carpool lanes and bike and pedestrian trails within the corridor. In addition, federal regulation of motor vehicle emissions combined with air quality standards set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Utah’s Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) have helped reduce major vehicle pollutants over the last two decades.
- Will transit be a part of this project?
Yes, as the Utah Transit Authority’s preferred transit alternative is on 5600 West in Salt Lake County with a dedicated center-running right-of-way. Transit vehicles will operate alone in their own lanes in the center of the roadway and street traffic would use general-purpose lanes adjacent to the transit. Potential vehicle types appropriate for use include a rubber-tire system such as Bus Rapid Transit or a rail system such as street car or light rail. However, no technology has been selected at this time.
Funding
The Utah State Legislature allocated $500 million in the 2009 Legislative Session as part of a bonding package for start of construction in Salt Lake County. The Transportation Commission had previously designated $230 million for Salt Lake County and $130 million for Utah County.
The subsequent phases of MVC will be built as funding becomes available.
