Summit County selects mountain-inspired design for Kimball Junction pedestrian bridge

Concept B emerged from three options after nearly 850 people weighed in; construction is expected to begin in 2028

SUMMIT COUNTY, Utah — Summit County will move forward with a mountain-inspired concept for a pedestrian bridge over state Route 224 near Ute Boulevard after gathering feedback from nearly 850 people.

The County Council selected Concept B during its Oct. 21 meeting, giving staff and the Utah Department of Transportation direction as design and engineering continue.

TownLift previously reported that Summit County was seeking public feedback on three concepts for the bridge, which is part of broader transportation improvements planned for Kimball Junction.

The weeklong survey drew nearly 850 responses. County Transportation Planning Director Carl Miller told the council the results were more of a “straw poll” than a statistically valid survey, but more than 90% of respondents said they were in Kimball Junction at least a few times a week.

Concept B received 46% of responses, compared with 40% for Concept A. Among respondents who said they were in Kimball Junction every day, Concept A was preferred over B. Concept C received substantially less support.

The Summit County Public Art Advisory Board reviewed the survey results and developed design principles calling for a distinctive, mountain-inspired bridge that complements rather than competes with the surrounding landscape. Survey respondents also favored descriptions including “natural” and “functional,” while fewer supported a bold or colorful design.

Council members initially split between Concepts A and B. Megan McKenna and Tonja Hanson favored B with the arts board’s design guidance, while Roger Armstrong and Council Chair Canice Harte preferred A. Councilmember Chris Robinson later supported B, and the council directed staff to move forward with that concept and the arts board’s recommendations.

The rendering is not a final bridge design. County officials have said engineering requirements, building codes, and materials could change its appearance and dimensions.

Officials estimated the bridge could cost between $15 million and $20 million, although detailed engineering has not been completed. UDOT expects to contribute about $4.5 million to $5 million, roughly the amount it had anticipated spending on a pedestrian undercrossing. Summit County would be responsible for costs above that amount.

County staff said a betterment agreement with UDOT is expected to return to the council before Thanksgiving. Design and engineering will continue through 2027, with construction anticipated to begin in 2028 and continue through 2030.