Hello Westside Neighbors!
A few short weeks ago, UDOT released an analysis of “transportation alternatives” for the I-15 freeway between Farmington and 400 South. There are a few different versions of the plan under consideration, but all of them include significant expansion of the freeway that we fear will substantially harm adjacent neighborhoods.
We are working hard to make sure the Westside voice is heard and considered before these plans move forward. We believe there are better solutions to Utah’s transit needs that do not require paving over our neighborhoods with more freeway lanes.
In an early success for our advocacy efforts, UDOT agreed to extend their public comment period until January 13th (it was originally in mid-December) so that we can gather community feedback and put together a coherent message.
That’s where we need your help! There are several upcoming opportunities to make your voice heard.
Opportunities to be heard:
First: you can submit comments directly to UDOT here.
Next: there are two upcoming meetings with community leaders who can help amplify your voice.
The first is an Open House hosted by NeighborWorks SLC on Monday December 5th from 5:30 – 7:30 PM at Sorensen Unity Cente. The Westside Coalition will be there to listen to your comments and help get them to the right place.
The next is a meeting with Senator Luz Escamilla, Representative Sandra Hollins, and Representative Angela Romero on Thursday, December 8th at the Fairpark’s Zion Building at 6:30 PM. Flyers for both of these events are attached below.
Finally, you can always email us at westsidecoalitionslc@gmail.com.
Opportunities to learn more:
If you’d like to learn more about the project, we’d encourage you to listen to this episode of RadioActive featuring our Coalition’s President, Dan Strong; Sweet Streets SLC’s Taylor Anderson; and Janet Fischer, a resident of one of the homes neighboring the current freeway.
You can also view UDOT’s community presentation here.
Moving forward:
We know this is the beginning of what will likely be a very long and difficult struggle for our community. As we move forward, we need your help. Join us at the upcoming meetings next week, and watch your email for other opportunities to help.
We are committed to putting our all into making sure this community is heard. We will do everything we can to protect these neighborhoods and reverse generations of disparate treatment in projects like this.
We invite you to join us!
