Project

With the planning and alternatives analysis process completed, the Point of the Mountain Transit Study is moving into the initial stages of project development, which will include conceptual engineering and environmental documentation. UTA will again work together with the Utah Department of Transportation, Draper City, Lehi City, South Jordan City, Sandy City, Wasatch Front Regional Council, Mountainland Association of Governments, Salt Lake County, and Utah County to complete this phase of the project.

This phase of the project will include environmental review and documentation of the project consistent with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). It is anticipated that an Environmental Assessment (EA) or potentially a DCE (Documented Categorical Exclusion) is the appropriate environmental document for this project. The environmental process will help to integrate design, transportation, environmental, and public outreach efforts leading to a project ready for approval and possible funding from the Federal Transit Administration.

The environmental review will include evaluation of the following categories:

• Acquisitions and Relocations
• Air Quality
• Biological, Streams, and Wetlands
• Community and Social
• Economic
• Energy
• Environmental Justice
• Floodplains
• Geology, Soils, and Groundwater
• Hazardous Materials
• Historic and Cultural Resources
• Land Use
• Noise and Vibration
• Recreational
• Transportation
• Visual and Aesthetics
• Water Resources
• Utilities
• Construction
• Cumulative and Indirect Impacts
• Mitigation
• Preliminary list of permits
• Public Involvement

The “Common Ground Segment” is the Preferred Alternative transit corridor for the juncture of southern Salt Lake County and northern Utah County. Bus Rapid Transit was identified as the best-performing and optimal transit technology for the corridor. The Point of the Mountain Transit Study developed these recommendations through its analysis, including extensive community input, of alternative transit pathways to connect southern Salt Lake County and northern Utah County. The analysis concluded in December 2020 and the final report was issued in early 2021. UTA facilitated the study in partnership with state and local jurisdictions and other key stakeholders. As of early 2021, partner cities, as well as UTA, are ratifying the Common Ground Segment’s selection.