The Utah Department of Transportation's Zion Canyon Fiber Optics Project is underway, involving fiber installation along SR-9, US-89, and SR-20. This initiative is designed to expand and modernize the state's fiber optic infrastructure and support ITS devices, including traffic cameras, electronic road signs, and weather stations.
In Phase I, which began on June 3, 2024, and is anticipated to be completed in spring 2027, crews are performing various tasks. Through September 18, work includes drilling, trenching, and installing junction boxes along the eastbound shoulder of SR-9 between Hurricane (MP 2-5) and Mount Carmel (MP 50-56). In Springdale, daytime and nighttime construction was scheduled to begin as early as September 14, 2026, with nighttime work occurring from 8 PM to 4 AM.
Nightly road closures are scheduled for the Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel (SR-9, MP 37–38) from 9:00 PM to 6:00 AM. These closures are scheduled for September 16, 17, 21, 22, 23, and 24. During these times, vehicles will be turned around approximately 50 feet before the west and east tunnel entrances.
Phase II began on August 24, 2026, and is expected to be completed in December 2026. This phase involves work along US-89 near Alton (MP 105-108) and Hatch (MP 114-118), primarily occurring within the roadway shoulders to minimize traffic impacts.
The project involves installing over 50 miles of new fiber optic cable to improve broadband access and enhance real-time traffic management. The Utah Department of Transportation plans to use environmentally friendly construction practices to minimize impacts on the natural landscape and ecosystem of Zion National Park. The project also involves partnerships with local telecommunications companies to jointly use infrastructure and lower expenses.
