Utah FrontRunner double-track project advances to engineering phase

SALT LAKE CITY — The Federal Transit Administration has given approval for Utah Transit Authority’s FrontRunner 2X program to enter the engineering phase of development, moving the double-tracking project close to receiving $1.28 billion in federal funding.

The project, a partnership of the UTA and Utah Department of Transportation, will add a total of 26.1 miles of double track in 11 locations on the 83-mile FrontRunner commuter rail line between Ogden and Provo, Utah. It also calls for a new station, new maintenance facility, and 10 new trainsets. The completed project will allow service at 15-minute intervals during peak periods and 30-minute intervals the remainder of the day, increasing capacity by 60%.

“This milestone is a major step forward for Utah. We are grateful to the U.S. Department of Transportation and Utah’s congressional delegation for their partnership and shared commitment to Utah’s future,” UDOT Commissioner Carlos Braceras said in a press release. “Utah is growing quickly, and preparing for that growth requires a balanced transportation system that goes beyond highways.”

Entry into Engineering allows UDOT and UTA to continue advancing the project’s design, early procurement and completion of other federal requirements as they work toward a Full Funding Grant Agreement with the FTA under the Capital Investment Grant program. The FTA first recommended supporting the project in March 2023, and committed to an increased level of funding in November 2024.

“As one of the fastest growing areas in the country, meeting this milestone demonstrates how Utah leadership cares about its citizens by investing in transit that will serve the region for generations to come,” said FTA Acting Deputy Administrator Matthew Cahill.

Construction is projected to take place from 2027 through 2030, subject to completion of the federal grant process, UDOT said.

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