Measure would facilitate demise of 900 S. rail line

The framework to abandon the 900 South rail line was laid this week when House Speaker Greg Curtis, R-Sandy, submitted a request for a bill that would allow the county to use allocated funds for rail lines.

In the proposed agreement, the county, city and Union Pacific would pay to improve the rail lines at Grant Tower, where there are many intersecting rail lines.

"This is the first time we have the framework for a viable solution," said former state Republican Sen. James Evans, who has been the driving force behind the agreement since before he left office in 2004.

The funds will allow Union Pacific to shallow the rail lines' curves at Grant Tower, increasing the speed through which trains can travel and eliminating the need for the 900 South line, which has irritated nearby residents.

The deal is expected to cost Salt Lake City more than $3.5 million, Salt Lake City Council Chairman Dave Buhler said.

"It's nice when government at all levels can come together to help solve a problem," Gov. Jon Huntsman Jr. said.