Road construction in Big Cottonwood Canyon to begin July 8 — expect traffic

SALT LAKE COUNTY, Utah ( ABC4 ) — The Utah Department of Transportation alerted drivers that construction will begin in Big Cottonwood Canyon on July 8, and traffic will be affected.

UDOT said that traffic will be limited to one direction between milepost 4 and milepost 4.5 — or Torpedo Hill and Stairs Gulch — on SR-190 in Big Cottonwood Canyon. The one-way traffic will alternate and will be controlled by temporary traffic control signals and pilot cars.

From milepost 4.5 to milepost 8 on SR-190 — or Stairs Gulch to Rock House — UDOT said roadside parking will be prohibited.

“Plan ahead if you’re going to be traveling in the canyon over the next few weeks,” UDOT said.

UDOT said drivers can expect increased traffic within the canyon when the construction begins. Depending on the volume of traffic in the canyon, UDOT said to expect delays of 15 minutes or longer.

All traffic on the road — including bicyclists — will be required to obey the traffic operations, the department said.

During paving operations, UDOT said some parking lots will be closed. Drivers were also told to expect potential vibrations, noise, dust, and plates on the roadways during the construction.

UDOT added that they will be working on the roads during the day, but nighttime work may occur “as needed.”

“This project will enhance safety and create a smoother ride for drivers, bikers, and all individuals traveling [through] Big Cottonwood Canyon,” UDOT said .

Officials did not immediately provide an exact estimated completion date, but said the project should be finished by “late summer 2024.”

If you have questions about the project, you may call the hotline at 385-446-6800. Alternatively, you can email the project team at SR190PavementPreservation@utah.gov.

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