One business, Shag-Rug-La, on the northeast corner of Bangerter and 3500 South, will need to be relocated to make room for the redesign. Property will need to be acquired from Les Schwab Tire, on the southwest corner of the intersection.

But, the intersection has "a much smaller footprint than an interchange," Compton said.

Kreg Whitehead, president and co-owner of Shag-Rug-La, declined to comment on the need or the anticipated success of the new interchange. Whitehead said he was told about three weeks ago his business would need to be relocated.

No arrangements have been made to compensate the company as plans for the intersection still require approval. Whitehead seemed resigned to the fact that his company may have to move.

"We've been here for 30 years and don't want to leave, but we're told there's not much we can do," he said. "If we're forced to move, we'll make the best of it and try to build a bigger and nicer establishment. We're not going to roll over and die by any means.

Shag-Rug-La sells floor and window coverings. It is a family-owned business.

A representative from Les Schwab's corporate office in Oregon did not return a phone call. Dealership managers declined to comment.

West Valley Mayor Dennis Nordfelt said he was supportive of a project that would relieve congestion along Bangerter and surrounding streets. "We're grateful for the working partnership we have with UDOT," he said. "They are very responsive and work with us in real harmony to solve the traffic problems."

If the new intersection design proves successful at 3500 South and Bangerter, UDOT plans to redesign intersections at 4700 South and 5400 South along Bangerter.

During the open house Thursday, the public is invited to comment on plans for the intersection. UDOT officials said the agency will respond to comments.

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E-mail: nwarburton@desnews.com