PROJECT INFORMATION //
Learn more about environmental studies and construction projects to improve transportation and safety in Big and Little Cottonwood Canyons.
Cottonwoods Connection Pipeline
Project Overview
Construction of the Cottonwoods Connection project began in May 2024 and is expected to continue through Summer 2026.
The project aims to provide the community with continuous clean and fresh drinking water. In partnership with the Salt Lake City Department of Public Utilities, there are three concerns:
- Aging infrastructure of both Big Cottonwood Water Treatment Plant (BCWTP) and Little Cottonwood Water Treatment Plant (LCWTP)
- Seismic vulnerability of both the Salt Lake Aqueduct (SLA) and Little Cottonwood Conduit (LCC)
- Limited water resources in the canyons and Deer Creek Reservoir (DCR)
This project will improve efficiency and resilience of the water supply system by creating a robust regional water supply solution.
For more project details and to stay updated on the Cottonwoods Connection Pipeline, call 385-512-4747 or email info@cottonwoodsconnection.com with “Updates” in the subject line.
Mt. Superior Avalanche Mitigation Project
Project Overview
WHAT & WHY: UDOT will be installing Wyssen Avalanche Towers, a type of Remote Avalanche Control System (RACS), in Little Cottonwood Canyon (SR-210) on the Mt. Superior ridgeline above the road. This project will help UDOT transition away from the P-Ridge Howitzer that has been used on the south side of the canyon, shooting over the road and buildings in the Town of Alta. Wyssen Avalanche Towers are operated remotely, allowing for more efficient and safe avalanche mitigation for workers and the public.
Construction is expected to start as soon as July 8, 2024 and estimated to be complete in October 2024.
What to expect during construction:
- Area closure is for the duration of the project due to helicopters transporting equipment directly over trails and recreation areas.
**For your safety and ours, please respect all closures.** - Crews will be working up to 7 days a week, sunrise to sunset. Work will not stop for holidays due to the limited construction season in the upper canyon.
- Intermittent road closures may occur throughout the project on the mainline below Mt. Superior. The Bypass road will remain open to use as an alternative.
- Noise impacts are likely as helicopters will be flying in the area daily
PROJECT CONTACT INFORMATION:
Phone: (801) 317-8131
Email: mtsuperioravalanchemitigation@utah.gov
Website: udotinput.utah.gov/mtsuperioravalanchemitigation
Big Cottonwood Canyon Environmental Study
Project Overview
UDOT has initiated an environmental study to evaluate congestion mitigation needs in Big Cottonwood Canyon (SR-190) from the intersection of SR-190/Fort Union Boulevard in Cottonwood Heights to the town of Brighton, Utah.
The study will evaluate methods to reduce winter-time traffic congestion for all users on SR-190 as identified by the Utah Legislature in Senate Bill 2 (2023). Senate Bill 2 appropriates funds to “provide enhanced bus service, tolling, a mobility hub, and resort bus stops for Big and Little Cottonwood Canyons.”
For more information or to sign up for study updates, contact the project team at (801) 477-6410 or email bccstudy@utah.gov with “Updates” in the subject line.
Big Cottonwood Canyon (SR-190) Pavement Preservation Project
Project Overview
UDOT is repaving SR-190 between the mouth of Big Cottonwood Canyon (Butlerville Segment) and Mineral Fork Trailhead (MP 1- 8) and Guardsman Pass Road between the winter gate and the Pass Overlook. This project will enhance safety and create a smoother ride for drivers, bikers, and all individuals traveling though Big Cottonwood Canyon. Paving will begin at the mouth of the canyon and continue towards Brighton Resort.
Location: The mouth of the canyon to Mineral Fork Trailhead (MP 8) and Guardsman Pass between the winter gate the pass overlook
Timeline: June – late summer 2024
What to expect:
- Daytime work, occasional night work as needed
- Temporary parking lot closures during paving operations
- Potential noise, dust, vibration, and plates on the road
- Increased traffic within the canyon
- One-way, alternating traffic controlled by temporary traffic signals and pilot cars
- All traffic, including bicyclists, are required to obey traffic operations
- Up to 15-minute delays. Delay times are based on traffic volume and demand in the canyon, so plan ahead for weekday events in the canyon.
Project Contact Information:
385-446-6800
Little Cottonwood Canyon Environmental Impact Statement
Project Overview
The Utah Department of Transportation (UDOT) began an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) in the spring of 2018 for Little Cottonwood Canyon (LCC) and Wasatch Boulevard in partnership with Utah Transit Authority (UTA) and the U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service to provide an integrated transportation system that improves the reliability, mobility and safety for residents, visitors, and commuters who use SR-210.
UDOT released the Record of Decision (ROD) for the Little Cottonwood Canyon EIS on July 12, 2023. The ROD is the final step in the EIS process and selects Gondola Alternative B, with phased implementation of Enhanced Bus Service Alternative components, to improve transportation in Little Cottonwood Canyon. The ROD is the final step in the EIS process.
