UDOT eyes tolling, enhanced bus service to tackle Big Cottonwood traffic

Traffic in Big Cottonwood Canyon. Photo: UDOT

Public input will be taken from Nov. 13-Dec. 13

SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – The Utah Department of Transportation (UDOT) is launching an environmental study to explore tolling and expanded bus service to reduce winter traffic on Big Cottonwood Canyon’s state Route 190.

The initiative, prompted by 2023’s SB2 legislation, is aimed at improving access to Big and Little Cottonwood Canyons during peak winter months, enhancing the experience for visitors while managing congestion.

What’s happening:
– SB2 directs UDOT to use allocated funds to “provide enhanced bus service, tolling, a mobility hub, and resort bus stops” in the canyons.
– The study will consider options such as frequent shuttle service from a mobility hub near the canyon entrances, enclosed bus stops at resorts, minor road improvements for buses, and a toll system with variable pricing during the winter season.

What they’re saying:
Big Cottonwood Canyon is a gateway to some of Utah’s best winter activities, UDOT officials say and their goal is to use legislative funds to address traffic in the canyon now and in the future.

Community input:
UDOT is hosting two public meetings and a comment period to gather feedback:
– In-person: Nov. 13, 6-8 p.m., at Butler Elementary School in Cottonwood Heights.
– Virtual: Nov. 14, 6-7 p.m., via Zoom, with a presentation and Q&A.

UDOT is seeking public input on the project’s preliminary goals, traffic-related concerns, and the community and environmental resources to consider in the study. The public is encouraged to review project documents, attend the upcoming meetings, and submit comments once the comment period opens beginning Nov. 13 – Dec. 13, 2024.