The Utah Transit Authority is accepting public comments through Oct. 26 regarding its proposed budget for January through June 2027. The spending plan covers a one-time transition period as the agency shifts from a calendar-year budget to align with the state of Utah's fiscal year beginning July 1, 2027.
According to an October 5 report, the proposed budget includes continued funding for the North Utah County microtransit zone. This area serves portions of Eagle Mountain, Saratoga Springs, Lehi, American Fork, Pleasant Grove, Lindon, Highland, Cedar Hills, and Alpine.
Launched Aug. 16, the 77-square-mile zone connects riders to the Lehi and American Fork FrontRunner stations, several area schools, and Primary Children's Hospital in Lehi. Rides cost $2.50, matching standard UTA bus or rail fares. The service operates Monday through Saturday from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m., and UTA partners with Via to operate the vehicles. During peak hours, some riders may receive a Lyft vehicle at no extra cost.
The budget also provides support for continued preparations for the FrontRunner 2X project. This partnership with the Utah Department of Transportation aims to add 11 sections of double-tracking to increase capacity and frequency on the commuter rail line.
UTA Executive Director Jay Fox stated on Aug. 12 that the new North Utah County service is an important step in ensuring transportation options keep pace with the growth of one of the state's fastest-growing areas. UTA's January 2026 annual report noted that systemwide UTA On Demand ridership grew 13.6% in 2025 to 645,308 boardings, with the program exceeding 2 million total riders since its 2019 launch.
A public open house is scheduled for Oct. 26 at 5:30 p.m. in the Golden Spike Conference Room at UTA headquarters, located at 669 West 200 South, Salt Lake City. A public hearing before the UTA Transit Commission will follow at 6 p.m.
Remote viewing and comment options are available for those who register in advance through the UTA budget page. Comments may also be submitted online, by phone at 801-287-3888, by mail to Jolisha Branch at 669 W. 200 S., Salt Lake City, UT 84101, or via email to hearingofficer@rideuta.com.
