Ogden, UT — Discarded Route to be Re-Studied

Rail Transit Online, June 2011

Planning for a modern streetcar line linking Ogden's downtown intermodal center with Weber State University and McKay-Dee Hospital Center has been temporarily suspended while consultants re-examine a route alternative that was discarded last year.

A study by Wilbur Smith Associates recommended an approximately 3.7-mi. (6 km) alignment running south on Washington Boulevard to 36th Street, east on 36th to Harrison, then south on Harrison to WSU and the hospital_ The city council wants to take another look at an option that would place the tracks on 25th Street instead of 36th. "I haven't heard a single citizen supporting the 36th Street alignment," Councilwoman Amy Wicks told The Salt Lake Tribune. "I've had people from all walks of life who never agree on anything come forward and say 25th Street. down Harrison or not at all."

Other controversies have dogged the streetcar project, which has been under discussion for seven years. WSU Vice President of Administrative Services Norm Tarbox expressed frustration at the newest delay, saying he doesn't feel the scheme is any closer to fruition now than it was years ago.

Ogden Mayor Matthew Godfrey doubts funding will be available for the estimated $160-million capital cost or the annual operating expense of about $3.5 million. But supporters, including leaders of the business community, believe their continuing efforts are worthwhile because streetcars will spur economic development in the corridor.