UDOT outlines new congestion-relief plan for Big Cottonwood Canyon

Traffic in Big Cottonwood Canyon. Photo: UDOT

BIG COTTONWOOD CANYON, Utah – The Utah Department of Transportation on Wednesday released its latest plan to reduce winter traffic on State Route 190, a mandate from the Utah Legislature two years ago under Senate Bill 2. The bill directs UDOT to use state-allocated funds to expand bus service, add tolling, build a mobility hub and improve resort bus stops in both Cottonwood canyons.

UDOT’s Proposed Action — the only alternative analyzed in detail — would significantly increase winter bus frequency in Big Cottonwood Canyon, starting at every 10–15 minutes with a long-term goal of 5–7 minutes by 2050. The also plan adds upgraded bus stops at Cardiff Fork, Spruces Campground, Silver Fork and Solitude Nordic Center; a bus-priority lane around Brighton Loop Road; a dedicated “transitway” at the base of the canyon that includes a one-way, bus-only lane; and a larger, relocated mobility hub with about 1,750 parking spaces connected by an interchange on Wasatch Boulevard.

A congestion-based toll near Solitude’s Moonbeam lot is also being considered. UDOT says tolling and increased bus service are intended to maintain the roadway’s effective winter capacity of about 1,000 vehicles per hour and reduce peak-hour travel times for both private cars and transit.

The project carries an estimated price tag of $258.4 million in 2025 dollars, including about $144 million in new funding beyond what’s already programmed through the Little Cottonwood Canyon project. If adopted, construction and bus procurement could begin in 2027, with completion by 2030.

During the scoping period, UDOT received 948 public comments and 10 agency responses. Many supported expanded bus service, upgraded trailheads and a mobility hub; others raised concerns about tolling and called for year-round bus routes, better regional transit connections and stronger tire-traction enforcement.

The public can comment on the final environmental assessment through Jan. 9. UDOT will hold an in-person open house Dec. 17 from 6–8 p.m. at Canyon View Elementary in Cottonwood Heights, and an online hearing Dec. 18 from 6–8 p.m. A recording will be posted on the agency’s website.