Future options for UTA service include possible Orange Trax line

Mar 22, 2024, 2:00 PM

This map shows one of four different alternatives for a possible Orange Trax line connection Salt Lake City International Airport to the University of Utah and the Research Park. (UTA/TechLink TRAX Study)

(UTA/TechLink TRAX Study)

BY BECKY BRUCE

News Director

SALT LAKE CITY — As the Utah Transit Authority moves forward on its long-range plan to accommodate growth in northern Utah, one of many options aimed at providing better east-west service in the Salt Lake Valley is a proposed future Orange Trax line.

Currently, UTA offers three primary lines. The Red line runs from the University of Utah to Daybreak, Green runs from the airport to West Valley City, and Blue connects downtown Salt Lake City to Draper. A slower S-Line streetcar serves the Sugar House area. FrontRunner, UTA’s commuter rail service, runs at faster speeds and covers the region from Ogden to Provo.

Orange Trax line proposed as part of future UTA plan

UTA’s TechLink TRAX Study website lays out four possible options for expanded Trax service that includes an Orange line. The options include possible realignment of the Red line, changes to the Blue and Green lines, and the addition of an Orange line of Trax.

Under all of the proposed options, the Orange line would run from Salt Lake City International Airport to the University of Utah, something that currently requires a change from the Green to the Red lines to accomplish. It would also add service to Research Park.

In a statement, UTA officials asked for public comment on the options.

“The TechLink TRAX Study offers a significant opportunity to explore innovative transit solutions… We encourage members of the community to learn about the options we are studying, share their feedback and contribute to shaping the future of transportation in our region,” said Patti Garver, UTA’s TechLink project manager.

All four options, including maps of the proposed new Orange line, are on the website for the TechLink study. Residents can share feedback there. UTA said the study team will consider that feedback along with other factors, including ridership, the economy and the environment.