This summer, University of Utah commuters should anticipate significant delays due to construction work involving TRAX repairs and surrounding road enhancements.
From May 24 to July 2 and again from July 6 to August 17, the Utah Transit Authority (UTA) will suspend service on the Red Line between the Courthouse and University Medical Center stations.
During this period, crews will be working to rebuild and upgrade the track infrastructure to ensure a more reliable service.
UTA is responding to increased commuter demand by adding extra bus services on Routes 1, 2, and 4 to assist riders during the service suspension.
Crews are set to replace aging rail infrastructure at the 450 South S-Curve, which has been in place for over two decades.
This work entails replacing worn components to enhance the TRAX system’s reliability and safety, including upgrades to the interlocking system, overhead wires, rail ties, and track connections.
According to UTA’s April 2025 service update, these critical modifications are aimed at boosting overall on-time performance, improving ride quality and safety, and prolonging the lifespan of existing equipment such as power lines and rail cars.
For Red Line passengers along the closure route, it will be necessary to transfer to bus routes one, two, and four at Gallivan Plaza.
Riders are advised to allow for extra travel time due to the potential for traffic-related delays affecting shuttle services.
Full Red Line operations are expected to resume on August 18, right before the fall semester begins.
Commuters who drive should also be prepared for lane shifts and closures in the vicinity of construction zones.
On a broader scale, the work on the Red Line forms part of UTA’s initiative to enhance the light rail system under the project titled TRAX Forward.
The ambitious plan includes expanding service, increasing operational speed, enhancing reliability, and improving safety in light rail transportation.
As part of these plans, UTA aims to extend service to underserved areas and burgeoning suburbs.
Key future developments include acquiring 20 new low-floor light rail vehicles and removing high blocks at TRAX stations to align with ADA standards set by the Federal Transit Administration.
UTA’s significant infrastructure investments are focused on achieving improved safety and speed within the light rail framework.
Upcoming upgrades will feature the rehabilitation and replacement of traction power systems, enhancement of the Union interlocking system, increased TRAX service frequency, and advancements in transit signal priority measures.
Such enhancements are designed to allow trains to operate more safely and at higher speeds.
Additionally, replacing outdated signaling and safety equipment—comprising camera systems, train control systems, and rail switches—will bolster the capacity, safety, and reliability of the TRAX system.
In conjunction with the TRAX improvements, construction work is also ongoing on 100 South, which runs along the southern edge of the University campus.
Salt Lake City has closed the westbound lanes between North Campus Drive and University Street to vehicle traffic as part of this reconstruction project.
Although the eastbound lanes remain open, they may be intermittently reduced to a single lane, requiring increased caution from drivers.
Patients exiting the medical campus will be rerouted to Mario Capecchi Drive.
While access to the University will still be available, authorities recommend avoiding 100 South during construction where possible.
The 100 South renovation effort, which began in May, aims to enhance safety for pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers alike.
Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall emphasized the importance of these improvements, stating that they are vital for safe and reliable access to local healthcare facilities, including the University Hospital, Primary Children’s Hospital, and Huntsman Cancer Institute.
“Improving 100 South will help save lives, support families in crisis, and ensure that every resident, healthcare worker, and visitor can reach these critical facilities safely and easily,” said Mendenhall.
The planned upgrades will include a new multi-use pathway, designated bike markings, sidewalk enhancements, and adjustments to street parking.
Crews will also add a new sidewalk on the north side of 100 South, east of Wolcott Street, along with installing pedestrian-activated crossing signals at various crosswalks.
Furthermore, street parking between University and Wolcott streets will be removed.
According to Salt Lake City officials, construction is projected to continue throughout the summer, with completion anticipated before the fall semester begins on August 17.
Commuters, including students, staff, and faculty, should prepare for TRAX shuttle delays and detours along the Red Line corridor, as well as increased vehicle traffic near campus due to lane restrictions.
Concurrently, no westbound access will be available, and eastbound access will be reduced on 100 South throughout the construction period.
For the latest updates on service disruptions and construction progress, residents are encouraged to visit UTA’s Service Alerts Page or Salt Lake City’s transportation updates page.
image source from：dailyutahchronicle
