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
Project Start Date: July 8, 2024
Project Completion Date: August 31, 2024
UDOT has installed 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.
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 repaved 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.
Location: The mouth of the canyon to Mineral Fork Trailhead (MP 8) and Guardsman Pass between the winter gate the pass overlook
Timeline: June – November 15, 2024
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.
