Transportation

November 12, 2024

Utah’s rapid growth makes expanding and modernizing transportation infrastructure essential. Building on our tradition of innovative urban design, we aim to create a system that will serve Utahns well into the future.

Infrastructure keeps Utah moving forward, and as our state grows, our transportation system must evolve to meet increasing demands. To do so, public transit must be competitive with automobile travel, offering convenience and efficiency.

Maintaining a high quality of life as we grow depends on keeping infrastructure in line with demand, and recent legislative efforts have laid a strong foundation for this goal. This session, we’ll continue this momentum by collaborating with agencies and businesses to further develop transit options and tackle “last mile” challenges between transit riders and their destination.

With Utah set to host the 2034 Olympics, these improvements will not only support a world-class event but also enhance daily life for Utahns. By planning with vision and purpose, we can support a growing population while preserving the quality of life that defines our state.

2025 Legislation Highlights

  • S.B. 174 Transit and Transportation Governance Amendments streamlines UTA decision-making by shifting certain duties to the executive director, clarifying board responsibilities and increasing oversight from the Department of Transportation on train and light rail projects. It enhances local coordination with annual meetings between transit districts and local governments, strengthens the Local Advisory Council’s role and improves transparency with an annual report on transit fares and reduced-fare programs, making Utah’s transit system more efficient and accountable.
  • S.B. 195 Transportation Amendments fosters enhanced collaboration between the Utah Department of Transportation and Salt Lake City, aiming to develop the best solutions for the city’s growing needs. A comprehensive mobility study will guide decision-making on improving travel efficiency, safety and reducing congestion, while ensuring infrastructure changes are sustainable. The bill also increases funding for road maintenance and highway litter control, without affecting temporary events hosted in the state.