UTA begins double track project along streetcar route

Written by Mischa Wanek-Libman, editor
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UTA held a ceremonial groundbreaking for the S-Line double track project on June 11. Photo credit: UTA.
Utah Transit Authority

The Utah Transit Authority (UTA) held a ceremonial groundbreaking to mark the start of efforts to double track a portion of its streetcar route.

The double track project will allow an increase of service along the S-Line with streetcars serving stops every 15 minutes instead of every 20 minutes. Approximately 1,745 feet of track will be laid between 500 East and 300 East and a new station will be constructed.

UTA opened the S-line Streetcar in December 2013 and the transit agency notes that a great deal of development has occurred in the area. UTA and Salt Lake City have estimated that the increased frequency will attract approximately 870 new daily passengers by 2030. The line currently serves 370,500 weekday boardings.

“Since the line opened in December 2013, the South Salt Lake and Sugar House area of Salt Lake City have experienced significant growth, with the addition of more than 1,000 residential units and over 2 million square feet of redevelopment,” said the UTA.

The $6.5-million project is being funded through the Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality Improvement (CMAQ) Program, Salt Lake County’s County Infrastructure Fund and contributions from the Wasatch Front Regional Council.

According to the project page on UTA’s website, grading and earthwork construction will began June 1 with engineering design to be released for construction around July 19. OCS and train control systems will be procured once design is completed with installation set to begin on October 1. Substantial completion is scheduled for January 18, 2019 and the new track release for revenue operation January 19, 2019.

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