Utah: I-80/I-215 Renewed

Drivers in Utah’s Fastest-Growing County Get a Smoother, Safer Ride

Challenge: Stretches of I-80 and I-215 that run through rapidly growing suburbs in Salt Lake County have reached the end of their lifecycle. Increased traffic volume, severe winter weather and fluctuating temperatures have worn away surfaces on the 60-year-old freeway. Drivers are plagued by potholes that damage cars and can lead to accidents.

The Solution: With help from the federal infrastructure investment law, the old roads are getting a facelift. The I-80 / I-215 Renewed project will remove damaged concrete pavement, add and widen lanes, and replace several bridges. Two have already been replaced using the Accelerated Bridge Construction (ABC) method – a technique where the old bridge is demolished while a new one is built adjacent. When it’s time – the new bridge simply slides into place. These improvements will reduce congestion and give Utah drivers a smoother, safer ride for many years to come.

What They’re Saying: “It becomes a safety concern when you are out there traveling freeway speeds and you hit a pothole going at that speed.” – Utah Department of Transportation spokesperson John Gleason (KSLTV 5, 05/31/23)

“Once completed, this project will improve both traffic flow and safety for motorists traveling throughout the region.” – Joe Cutillo, CEO of Sterling Construction Co. (Ralph L. Wadsworth Construction Co.’s parent)