Also, Baxter noted, such support could come without reopening the city's agreement with Union Pacific. Instead, some simple phone calls or lobbying from state leaders would be enough for Utah's congressional delegation to get the picture. And the more lobbying the better, Baxter said, defending the effort to persuade some 3,500 area residents to write to Utah's Senate and House leaders in support of the deal.

"What we need most is to convince our congressional delegation that this project will have substantial public benefits," Baxter said. "Having them hear directly from the people who are most impacted is one of many ways to help them understand that."

Baxter also maintained the mayor's office has been up front about the challenges. "We've been very honest with the community saying that this is a lot of money and getting it will be very challenging," he said.

Anderson seemed more optimistic last year when he announced the deal.

"This is the conclusion we've been seeking for more than a year," Anderson said then. "This is great news for our entire city, and especially for those now impacted by the reactivation of the 900 South line."

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E-mail: bsnyder@desnews.com