UDOT pointing to route preferred for $2 billion road

"The traffic needs to get further south before it dumps back on to I-15," said Utah County Commissioner Larry Ellertson. "Wherever (the Mountain View Corridor) joins with I-15, there is a potential for congestion, and ... the further south you can get it, the better it would be."

Ellertson said he will "have faith" in UDOT's studies, if it is suggested that 2100 North should be chosen as the preferred alternative, but he will continue to look for more southern solutions.

In total, about 29 homes, three businesses and three historic properties would be destroyed if Mountain View is built at 2100 North. The southern freeway alternative, which abuts the northern edge of Utah Lake, would impact 127 homes, nine businesses and three historic properties.

The arterials alternative would allow Mountain View to branch off into three smaller roads at 1900 South, 2100 North and Porter Rockwell Boulevard. It would impact 72 homes, two businesses and six historic properties.

Last December, UDOT announced that its preferred alternative for the portion of the road in Salt Lake County is at 5800 West. After UDOT announces its preference for Utah County, the agency will then work to release a draft environmental-impact statement.

In addition to environmental information, the study also will include data about the feasibility of charging tolls on Mountain View. UDOT plans to finish the study this winter, and will then seek approval to build Mountain View from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the Federal Highway Administration.

Currently, UDOT does not have the funds to build Mountain View.

Newell said she encourages the public to still submit comments and concerns about Mountain View. "We're moving ahead, but we're also still in listening mode," she said.

For more information about Mountain View, go to: www.udot.utah.gov/mountainview.

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