Construction is set to commence on an extensive two-year project aimed at enhancing a crucial road on the west side of Utah’s capital. This week, Salt Lake City will initiate the long-awaited 600/700 North reconstruction project in the Rose Park neighborhood. To alert motorists of the impending changes, signs have been placed warning of expected delays starting Wednesday due to lane closures in the area. The city is also organizing a public open house on Wednesday to clarify the project’s uncertain timeline.
The comprehensive project involves a full-scale reconstruction of 600/700 North, stretching from 800 West to Redwood Road. This road serves as a vital east-west connector, linking traffic from I-15 and I-215. Key features of the upgrade include curb-protected bike lanes, improved crosswalks, and other infrastructure enhancements, reflecting community requests for improved safety and accessibility.
Transportation officials have previously cautioned that significant traffic disruptions are anticipated once construction is underway, prompting early communication of these impacts as early as December. The project, which is backed by a $20-million budget sourced from a city sales tax bond and the Utah Department of Transportation’s (UDOT) transportation investment fund, is one of many slated for the current construction season.
Despite plans to reduce traffic to a single lane in each direction, the most substantial travel impacts are anticipated later. The roadwork is expected to overlap with a concurrent UDOT-led initiative to replace the aging bridge over the Jordan River along the route. Though managed separately, efforts have been made to align the projects for efficiency. However, UDOT has yet to finalize a contractor for the bridge replacement at 650 North, complicating the overall construction timeline.
Road closures are expected to commence in the latter half of the year, potentially lasting up to eight months and concluding as late as May 2026, depending on progress and unforeseen challenges. The bridge project, while shorter in duration, is anticipated to have a more significant impact.
Already, some public transit services have adapted to the construction. The Utah Transit Authority has rerouted its Route 205 bus, moving service between 900 West and Redwood Road to 500 North indefinitely. Further impacts are expected as construction advances.
Residents and interested parties can attend the open house at Backman Elementary School, 601 N. 1500 West, from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday. The event will provide food from The Other Side Donuts, and a raffle for bikes and bike-related gear, organized in conjunction with Bike Utah. Spanish-speaking staff will be available to communicate with a wider audience. Those unable to attend can direct inquiries via email to [email protected] or phone at 801-618-1003. The city has also launched a webpage for regular project updates.
The Bottom Line
This major infrastructure project is poised to impact daily life in the Rose Park neighborhood and surrounding areas significantly. Residents and commuters should prepare for potential delays and altered travel routes due to lane closures and detours. The city’s effort to enhance road safety and connectivity reflects a broader commitment to meeting the transportation needs of its community.
For businesses and local residents, this project brings both challenges and opportunities. While construction may temporarily disrupt traffic and access, the long-term benefits include improved road conditions, safer bike lanes, and better pedestrian crossings. These enhancements can lead to increased property values and a boost to the local economy by attracting more visitors and potential residents once completed.
As the project progresses, staying informed and adaptable will be crucial for those living in or traveling through the area. The city’s provision of resources, such as public forums and communication channels, can help residents navigate these changes effectively and voice any concerns they may have.