Park City weighs Park & Ride locations to ease traffic congestion on SR-248

The Gordo property, which is being considered by the City Council as a Park & Ride option as part of an effort to come up with a long-term strategy to reduce traffic on SR-248. Photo: Park City Municipal

PARK CITY, Utah – Park City officials are considering new Park & Ride locations in the Quinn’s Junction area as part of a long-term transit strategy to alleviate congestion along SR-248. The City Council is reviewing multiple site options, with a final decision expected this summer.

The initiative aligns with ongoing efforts to enhance transit services for day skiers, commuters, and event attendees while supporting broader regional transportation improvements. Current options  according to a recent Staff Report that will be discussed at a City Council meeting on April 10, include expanding the existing Richardson Flat facility, developing a new P&R at the Gordo Parcels, or revisiting a previously planned site at Quinn’s Junction.

Current challenges and options

The Richardson Flat Park & Ride, built in 2008, has a 750-vehicle capacity but has not been expanded due to the area containing contaminated soil. It is also on leased land, which limits the City’s options for development. Despite increased transit ridership in recent years, the City says it lacks key infrastructure improvements.

The Gordo Parcels, currently undergoing environmental cleanup, offer a potential site for a new P&R once regulatory approvals are completed. Meanwhile, a previously planned Quinn’s Junction site was abandoned in 2022 but may be reconsidered following recent infrastructure developments.

Strategic importance and future considerations

The decision on a P&R location is critical to ongoing regional developments, including the Re-create 248 Transit Study and a $15 million matching contribution from Deer Valley Resort for an off-site parking facility. Officials are also considering a two-location approach: one for daily transit use and another for overflow parking during peak events.

The City Council is expected to provide direction soon, with plans to advance site design and transit integration as part of the broader regional parking strategy.

What’s next?

Residents and stakeholders will have opportunities to provide input as the city finalizes its decision. Officials are prioritizing a solution that supports long-term transit efficiency while addressing immediate parking and congestion challenges.

For more details, visit the Park City Transportation Department website.

Potential Park & Ride locations

1. Richardson Flat Expansion
   • Pros: Existing site with 750 parking spaces, serves PC Heights with direct service, potential for development.
   • Cons: Development is limited by environmental concerns, ownership restrictions, and the need for significant infrastructure upgrades.
2. Gordo Parcels
   • Pros: Strategically located near major roads, with potential for a dedicated transit facility. Lower costs due to shorter transit distance.
   • Cons: Currently undergoing environmental cleanup; development timeline depends on regulatory approvals.
3. Quinn’s Junction (Revived Site)
   • Pros: Previously planned for P&R use; near Park City Hospital and major entry corridors.
   • Cons: Abandoned in 2022 due to competing land-use priorities; may require new approvals and funding.
4. US-40/SR-248 Intersection (New Site Proposal)
   • Pros: High visibility and direct access to major commuter routes.
   • Cons: Would require land acquisition and new transit infrastructure.