The Utah Department of Transportation (UDOT) has finished a safety repair project on U.S. Route 189 in Provo Canyon. The work, which took place between Canyon Glen Park and Vivian Park, involved replacing the median barrier with a stronger concrete design, upgrading crash cushions, and improving drainage systems.
During the summer, lane reductions were put in place to allow crews to complete the repairs safely. The new crash cushions are made from flexible, energy-absorbing materials that compress on impact to slow vehicles and reduce injury severity. These cushions are also cost-effective because they can often be reused after a collision.
“Safety comes first and we’re always looking for practical solutions to apply to our roads, especially in the canyons,” said UDOT Region Three Project Manager Craig Hancock. “Crash cushions are a great way to protect everyone on the road while also being considerate of taxpayer dollars.”
In addition to barrier upgrades, crews cleaned out and reinforced drainage systems along US-189. This work aims to prepare drivers for winter conditions such as ice, snow, and water.
