Council, Billings back a Provo belt loop

An environmental impact study of the I-15 corridor from 119th South in Salt Lake County through Provo to Payson is being conducted by UDOT, the Utah Transit Authority and the Mountainland Association of Governments.

The project is estimated to cost $3.2 billion. The widening of I-15 in Salt Lake County prior to the 2002 Olympic Winter Games cost $1 billion.

The council-backed proposal is one of five alternatives being considered.

It would lead to the widening of I-15 to five lanes in both directions, including a high-occupancy vehicle lane.

The frontage road system would enhance access to I-15 while minimizing impact on nearby neighborhoods, according to the council resolution.

UDOT has proposed a diamond interchange at the Provo Center Street exit. Provo city leadership believes an SPUI would better handle increased traffic flow in the future.

---

E-mail: twalch@desnews.com