Beehive State News

SALT LAKE CITY—U.S. Senator Mitt Romney (R-UT) today applauded an announcement from the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) that the Wasatch Front region will receive $24.5 million in a Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity (RAISE) discretionary grant for 15 projects that will improve transit access. Using the funds provided by the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, legislation Senator Romney helped negotiate, this RAISE grant will fund pedestrian and bicycle improvements made around 10 light light rail stations and 13 bus stops. The Utah Department of Transportation (UDOT) applied for the grant, in close collaboration with Mountainland Association of Governments (MAG), Utah Transit Authority (UTA), Wasatch Front Regional Council (WFRC) and local communities.

“Regional transportation partners throughout Utah have been diligently working to increase connectivity to transit and active transportation networks between communities along the Wasatch Front,” said Senator Mitt Romney. “I’m proud to have helped the Utah Department of Transportation secure this $24.5 million RAISE grant, which will help alleviate traffic congestion, reduce pollution and increase access to services, jobs, and educational opportunities for Utahns with limited access to a personal vehicle.”

“I am delighted to see the successful collaboration between UDOT, UTA, WFRC, and MAG in securing the RAISE Grant for Utah. This significant investment in our transportation infrastructure will enhance connectivity, improve accessibility, and create opportunities for economic growth in our communities,” said Senator Mike Lee. “I’m grateful for the hard work and dedication of all those involved in making this grant a reality. Utahns can be proud of our strides in advancing our transportation economy.”

“Improving access to transit is a critical component in strengthening Utah’s transportation network,” said Representative Chris Stewart. “This First/Last Mile Connectivity Project is great news for Utah, and I’m proud to fight for our state’s transportation priorities.”

“I am thrilled that the U.S. Department of Transportation has awarded Utah this $24.5 million RAISE Grant. I worked closely with the Secretary’s office to advocate for this funding, which will encourage the use of public transit, reduce pollution and traffic congestion, and make our communities more accessible,” said Representative Blake Moore. “As Utah’s population, job opportunities, and overall economic impact grow, the need for enhanced access to public transit becomes even more essential.”

“I am pleased to hear of UDOT’s successful application for the RAISE Grant through USDOT,” said Representative Burgess Owens.  “This First/Last Mile Connectivity funding will make it easier for our constituents who rely on transit. While transportation needs will continue to be a forefront issue across Utah, this funding is a welcomed step towards making our community a better place to live.”

“Many critical first/last mile projects exist in our growing region, and–big or small–they’re all important and work together to create a network that increases access to public transportation and travel choices,” said South Jordan Mayor, and WFRC Chair, Dawn Ramsey.

“Provo City is a healthy community by design – we’ve planned for, preserved and pride ourselves on our many active transportation facilities. In addition to providing for smooth vehicle flow, we remain dedicated to our connected network of protected bike lanes, multi-use paths, sidewalks and trails that make navigating our community safer. We are thrilled that we can enhance our active transportation network through funds from the RAISE grant.“ said Provo City Mayor, and MAG MPO Board Chair, Michelle Kaufusi.

“This additional funding will support our efforts to build a transportation system that’s safer and more accessible for everyone, no matter how they choose to get around,” said Carlos Braceras, UDOT Executive Director. “These projects will help build stronger connections within our communities by improving access to transit, enhancing pedestrian safety and expanding routes for bicyclists.”

“UTA is excited to join with our unified transportation partners to connect you, our community, to the largest integrated transit network in the western United States,” said Jay Fox, UTA Executive Director. “We Move You is UTA’s mission, and the first step is ensuring transit is safe, accessible, and convenient. Because transit benefits everyone, not just our customers, these first/last mile connection projects will increase the quality of life for all Utahns. Thank you to our Congressional Delegation for your support in securing this vital funding.”

Background:

Regional transportation partners identified a list of 15 priority projects that the RAISE grant will fund. A selection of projects include:

·  Magna Township sidewalk replacement and new sidewalk along several streets accessing 2700 South

·  Ogden City intersection improvements, including traffic calming bulb-outs and new ADA ramps along Madison Avenue and a multi-use path

·  Provo City buffered bike lanes on University Avenue between Center Street and 800 North; buffered bike lanes on 200 East between 600 South and Center Street

·  West Valley City bikes lanes on 1200/1300 West, 2200 West and 4000 West

Click here to read today’s official RAISE grant announcement from the USDOT.

Original source can be found here.