Transportation Officials Present New Tool to Assess Traffic Delays Across Utah Regions

The Utah Transportation Commission held a programming workshop on May 8, 2025, focusing on the state of mobility and transportation infrastructure. The meeting highlighted a new decision-making tool designed to help regional planners identify critical road sections for future studies and projects. This tool aims to address ongoing congestion issues as vehicle miles traveled (VMT) continue to rise alongside population growth.

Presenters shared data indicating that while statewide freeway delays have decreased from 2019 to 2024, many drivers may not perceive these improvements due to persistent congestion. The discussion included a detailed analysis of travel time delays on arterial roads, which differ from freeway measurements due to the presence of traffic signals and varying peak travel times. The new methodology aggregates delays based on peak hour travel times, providing a clearer picture of congestion impacts across the state.

The workshop also addressed the importance of considering recreational traffic patterns, particularly in rural areas, where weekend congestion can significantly differ from weekday patterns. Participants acknowledged that this initial analysis would evolve to incorporate more comprehensive data, including recreational traffic trends.

Additionally, the commission discussed the use of probe data collected from mobile devices to assess travel times and delays. This approach allows for a broader understanding of congestion without relying solely on fixed sensors, enhancing the state's ability to monitor and respond to traffic conditions.

The meeting concluded with a regional breakdown of congestion data, illustrating where improvements have been made and where further attention is needed. The commission emphasized the ongoing need for infrastructure projects to alleviate congestion and improve mobility across Utah's transportation network. As the state continues to grow, these discussions will play a crucial role in shaping future transportation strategies.