LAYTON -- Officials from the Utah Department of Transportation have determined that a transportation corridor, which could be an extension to the Legacy Parkway, is needed in Davis and Weber counties.
On Friday, UDOT released the draft "purpose and need" analysis for the West Davis Corridor project.
The document, which explains why the project is necessary and what it should achieve, will serve as the criteria in determining a range of future project alternatives.
"This is sort of the first big milestone for the project," said Randy Jeffries, West Davis Corridor project manager. "This is explaining what the needs are and what action should be taken."
The 38-page report states that population and employment growth, increased road congestion and delays, and a lack of transit and bicycle infrastructure all make the project a necessity.
The report says the project study area, which encompasses basically all developable land west of Interstate 15 from 12th Street in Ogden to Parrish Lane in Centerville, is expected to grow 75 percent between now and 2040.
Jeffries said the main purpose of the corridor is to enhance regional mobility, particularly during morning and evening commuting hours.
"The region is booming in terms of population," he said. "And we need to make sure we are still able to be mobile as our population grows."
UDOT says the project also should improve interconnectivity between roads and transportation systems, support local growth objectives, and increase bicycle and pedestrian options.
The report comes after recent input from local communities, agencies and other interested groups, coupled with field research and traffic analysis of the area.
After gathering and evaluating input on the draft purpose and need document, the study team will hold open houses and accept public comment to consider all possible transportation options, including various modes of transportation, that meet the needs of the project.
Jeffries said at this point, all options are on the table, including east-west corridors and rail lines.
"We are seeking feedback from the west Davis and Weber communities on the transportation needs we've identified and the purposes of this project," Jefferies said. "We want to make sure we understand the needs before moving forward to study any project alternatives."
UDOT will take comments on the report until June 7. The report can be viewed at www.udot.utah.gov/westdavis.
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