Salt Lake City launches study to solve ‘east-west divide’

SALT LAKE CITY (ABC4) — Salt Lake City officials said there has long been a divide between the eastern and western parts of the city.

Several major railroads, including rails belonging to FrontRunner and the Union Pacific Railroad, block commuters with parked trains, causing delays and increased travel times. Officials also say I-15 acts as a wall with crossings only at a handful of major streets, affecting the day-to-day lives of community members.

In an effort to solve this divide, Salt Lake City said it will be launching a transportation study. Through this study, officials hope to find potential solutions to improve transportation infrastructure and bridge the gap in the city.

The study, which will funded using a $1.9 million grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation, will collaborate will a Community Advisory Board made up of Salt Lakers who routinely experience the divide. Salt Lake officials said the study will focus on solutions for all modes of transportation including driving, walking, bicycling, and public transit.

“Future transportation investments must reflect the voices of westside residents – not just because it’s the right thing to do, but because the best solutions come from the residents who live with these challenges every day,” said Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall. “The west side deserves more ways to connect, and this study is the next step in making them happen.”

Applications to be a part of the Community Advisory Board opened on Wednesday, Feb. 26. Salt Lake City encourages those who regularly experience the divide, are excited to help find solutions, and help engage with the community to apply. Those selected to be a part of the advisory board will be compensated for their time.

Applications can be filled out online or with paper applications filled out at the locations listed below:

• Day-Riverside Library (1575 West 1000 North)
• Marmalade Library (280 West 500 North)
• Glendale Library (1375 Concord Street)
• Chapman Library (577 South 900 West)
• SLC Transportation (349 South 200 East, Suite 150)