July 17, 2012 – Salt Lake County will begin work on Emigration Canyon Road. The roadwork, which will begin its preliminary stages this week, is expected to continue through the summer.
The work is intended to improve safety conditions by creating shoulders to keep rock slides out of bike lanes. The slope stabilization project will include clearing debris from roadside ditches to create catch-basins that will contain gravel and soils that slide downhill from unstable uphill areas.
“Salt Lake County recognizes that Emigration Canyon is the ‘crown jewel’ for all transportation users, including professional bicycle riders, amateur and recreational riders, among others,” said Mayor Peter Corroon. “And since Emigration Canyon is the home to many residents, we understand the need to address slope and debris issues on the road to provide safe transportation for all users.”
The work will not immediately call for major traffic control, however as the project continues, travelers will see temporary delays and traffic redirection.
“Salt Lake County Public Works is dedicated to keeping our roads safe for all types of travelers,” said Public Works Director Patrick Leary. “I ask that Emigration Canyon users be courteous of crews working in the canyon so the project can proceed safely and efficiently.”
The Emigration Canyon safety improvements are made possible by the $250,000 set aside for the project in the county’s 2012 budget.
“The bicycle community is thrilled this project is getting off the ground,” said county Bicycle Advisory Committee Chair Chad Mullins. “This is a great step towards improving cyclist safety and encouraging recreation in one of Salt Lake County’s most beautiful and utilized canyons.”
