An Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) is a detailed written document that analyzes impacts from a proposed
action to the human and natural environment. The National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) requires that an EIS
be prepared for Federal Actions that may significantly impact the environment. The document informs the public
of the reasonable alternatives to avoid or minimize negative impacts resulting from a project. The public and
agencies are encouraged to provide input during the entire EIS process and have the opportunity to review and
comment on the Draft and Final EIS. Comments are included in the formal project record.
Click here to view the Final EIS.
Study Background:
A previous environmental study was conducted in 2000 for a proposed freeway interchange at 11400 South and I-15
and an east-west roadway connection of 11400 South. Based on this study, the Federal Highway Administration
(FHWA) issued a Finding of No Significant Impact for proceeding with the interchange and roadway connection
project. However, this decision was challenged through legal proceedings. UDOT and FHWA agreed that a more
detailed study of the transportation issues in the area is needed. The study area was expanded and UDOT and
FHWA began conducting a more detailed EIS in May 2003.
The southern Salt Lake Valley is one of the fastest growing areas in the state of Utah. Population in the study
area is expected to increase by 90% by the year 2030 over 2000 population numbers
(click for table). FHWA and UDOT have prepared
the 11400 South EIS to thoroughly investigate transportation needs and possible solutions to transportation
issues in the entire study area. The project team conducting the 11400 South EIS is considering historical,
current, and future traffic patterns and volumes, and potential impacts to residents, area businesses and the
environment. Public input is critical throughout this study.
Progress to Date:
As one of the first steps in the EIS process, a Purpose and Need document was prepared, which was based on an analysis
of baseline traffic information and modeling of future projected traffic, recent and future road improvement
projects within the study area, public input to date, and input from representatives of the four city
governments within the study area. The Purpose and Need document established that there is a need for
transportation improvements in the study area.
FHWA and UDOT evaluated and compared twelve preliminary alternatives, including the “No Build”
Alternative. The analysis of alternatives included an evaluation of how well each alternative improved
mobility and supported economic development within the study area. As part of the initial traffic analysis,
components were added to alternatives if the component would improve overall mobility in the study area.
The alternatives analysis also included an evaluation and comparison of:
Number of homes and business that would need to be relocated;
Impacts to environmental resources such as wetlands, historic properties, and recreational properties;
Degree of public support or opposition; and
Project costs
Based on the evaluation, alternatives that did not meet the project purpose and need were eliminated from further
consideration, as were alternatives that had excessive costs. One alternative that had a significant number of
relocations and strong public and city council opposition was also eliminated from further consideration. The
alternatives that were advanced for detailed analysis in the EIS are presented below.
The project team solicited input from the public, city representatives, and regulatory agencies on the
alternatives that have been advanced in the Draft and Final EIS. Based on the input received and on the
results of the more detailed environmental analysis, Alternative 4 has been recommended as the Preferred
Alternative for the Environmental Impact Statement.
Review the Public Comments to see what
others are saying about the alternatives.
The official public comment period on the Final EIS ends July 10, 2005. Based on the comments
received, the FHWA will select the Preferred Alternative and issue a Record of Decision (ROD). Comments
received after will not be formally addressed in the ROD, however they will still be included as part of the
project administrative record.
Study Area:
Encompassing approximately 16.5 square
miles, the 11400 South EIS encompasses the following
area approximately 16.5 square miles in size (click
here for a map):
North-South
parameters: 12300 South in Draper City
and 12600 South in Riverton City to 10600 South in Sandy City and
10400 South in South Jordan City.
East-West
parameters: Bangerter Highway to 700 East
Current Population
and Projected Population
Southern Salt Lake County*
2000 Population
Projected 2010 Population
Projected 2020 Population
Projected 2030 Population
168,086
257,300
295,225
319,952
*Includes Cities of Draper, Riverton,
Sandy and South Jordan Source: 2000 population based
on U.S. Census 2000. Projected population based on Wasatch Front
Regional Council 2030 Projections Data.
