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ong>UDOT to look at Shepard Lane bridge that spans Interstate 15

FARMINGTON -- The Utah Department of Transportation will conduct a safety study to determine what can be done to resolve concerns about pedestrian safety on the Shepard Lane bridge that spans Interstate 15.

Increased traffic, higher speeds, narrow lanes and a low guardrail prompted residents to voice their concerns to city officials.

Many, including Bonnie Whitaker, say crossing the bridge has become dangerous for pedestrians because of increased building on the west side. Whitaker has said she thinks it is only a matter of time before a child is hurt or killed.

Mayor Scott Harbertson said city and UDOT officials discussed the problem Tuesday and decided a study needed to be done.

The study is expected to take two to four weeks, and after it is complete, officials will meet again to discuss possible solutions.

"They'll give recommendations on what to do to make it safer. We'll have to sit down and see what we can do, but we've got to do something immediately, and then look for something more long-term," Harbertson said.

Officials want a separate pedestrian crossing added to the bridge. Such a crossing could cost $1 million to $2 million.

The city had asked UDOT for action, but those requests went unanswered. Harbertson said unofficial responses he received indicated UDOT officials felt it was the city's responsibility to make any improvements.

He finally charged Councilman Rick Dutson to follow up on the matter.

After an impromptu discussion between Dutson and UDOT Region One Director Cory Pope following a Legacy North meeting earlier this month, Pope agreed the issue needed attention and scheduled the meeting.

Although UDOT officials have agreed to help find a solution, ownership and responsibility for the road is still up in the air, Harbertson said.

"They (UDOT) are still saying it's our road, so we're asking them to show us chapter and verse where it says that."

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