News Article Viewer

Mayor’s Message

Main Street Interchange

The Utah Department of Transportation (UDOT) will soon begin widening I-15 from milepost 10 to milepost 13 in each direction, and adding an interchange onto Main Street at milepost 11. Construction is anticipated to begin this Spring and to be substantially complete by the end of 2024.

Wheels have been in motion on this project since the summer of 2017 when an Environmental Impact Study was initiated. The study was finalized and a Record of Decision was issued in 2019, predating current elected officials and city management. The primary reason for the Main Street Interchange is to alleviate traffic congestion at the intersection of Green Spring Drive and Telegraph Street.

It’s clearly recognized that this project has already caused disruption to some, and that it will cause inconvenience and frustration associated with construction and new traffic patterns to others. Because the decision has been made by UDOT, current city leadership’s focus has been on making the best of the existing situation, improving the site layout and aesthetic appeal, planning for future services, and communicating with residents.

The Site

Early drafts of the site plan showed a layout with on and off ramps connecting to Main Street on the south side of I-15 and Brio Parkway on the north side. After listening to feedback from residents who live in proximity, the City worked with UDOT and the engineering firm to modify the layout in order for the interchange to tie into Main Street on both the south and north side, which is a much better outcome. In addition to other traffic calming measures, it is anticipated that a traffic signal will be added at the intersection of Main Street and Buena Vista Boulevard.

Aesthetics

The original design of the interchange wasn’t visually appealing and didn’t meet expectations. Myself and city staff members actively participated in many hours worth of meetings with engineers, designers, and project managers from UDOT. We pushed back and succeeded in achieving concessions regarding colors, landscaping, and designs that better represent Washington City and its unique and inspiring geography. Expect to see native red and tan colors, outlines of buttes and mesas, and even the City logo on various walls. Desert plants and rugged rocks that match Main Street’s existing landscaping will connect seamlessly at this new entrance.

Future Services

The City owns approximately 10 acres of vacant land on the north side of I-15, along Main Street and Buena Vista Boulevard, that will be ready for improvement once the interchange is complete. This property could attract new amenities like restaurants, shopping, and entertainment. The City intends to coordinate with private and public sector organizations for services that benefit residents and bring value to the community at this location.

Transportation Expo

Residents will have an opportunity to see the final plans, layout, colors, and designs at an open house and booth at the Dixie Transportation Expo on February 7th from 10am to 6pm at the Dixie Convention Center. City officials, engineers, and UDOT representatives will be there to discuss the project. Additional information, and updates during construction, can be found at WashingtonCity.org/projects.

-Kress Staheli

Mayor

kress@washingtoncity.org


Latest on Instagram:

Washington City Utah | (435) 656-6300
letusknow@washingtoncity.org
111 North 100 East | Washington, Utah 84780 [map]
© 2024 Washington City Corporation. All rights reserved.
Privacy Policy

Connect with Washington City: