Hideout awarded $150K UDOT grant to explore shuttles, trails, and possible water transit connections

Town Hall building in Hideout. Photo: TownLift // Bailey Edelstein

HIDEOUT, Utah — The Town of Hideout has received a $150,000 grant from the Utah Department of Transportation to develop a long-range Transportation Master Plan focused on regional connectivity and alternatives to traditional car travel as the area continues to grow, split between the original town area and the Richardson Flats annexation.

According to a town press release the plan will explore a wide range of transportation options, including pedestrian trails, localized shuttle systems, and even potential “water-based transportation connections.”

Town officials said the master plan is intended to create stronger links between the town’s older neighborhoods and the Silver Meadows annexation, an area across the Jordanelle slated for development.

The grant funding will support planning efforts only and does not fund construction of roads, transit systems, or other infrastructure projects.

“This strategic Master Plan will serve as a vital guiding document to facilitate critical regional connections,” the release stated.

The release did not indicate whether any formal feasibility studies have already been conducted or whether discussions have taken place with Jordanelle State Park or other agencies.

Hideout also emphasized that the grant application was strengthened through collaboration with regional governments and transit partners.

“Securing this competitive state funding was made possible by Hideout’s ongoing commitment to cross-jurisdictional collaboration,” the release stated, adding that town leaders had worked closely with Summit County officials and regional transportation groups.

The announcement comes as communities throughout the Wasatch Back continue grappling with population growth, increasing traffic congestion, and questions surrounding future transit infrastructure — particularly around the expanding Jordanelle and Deer Valley East Village areas.

Hideout’s release did not identify whether future shuttle concepts could connect to existing systems such as High Valley Transit or Park City transit services.

“Transportation is something that affects the quality of life for all of us in the region and I’m thrilled the State is providing us with funding to create a long-range plan as we continue to grow rapidly,” said Hideout Town Administrator Jan McCosh.

Additional details about the planning process, including timelines and opportunities for public input, are expected to be released in the coming months.