Mid-Jordan Trax Line: A Case Study in Light Rail Development

This article examines the Mid-Jordan Trax Line project, a significant light rail expansion in the Salt Lake City metropolitan area. The project, completed in 2011, serves as a valuable case study in the planning, financing, construction, and operation of modern light rail transit (LRT) systems. We will explore the various stakeholders involved, the project’s logistical complexities, the technological solutions implemented, and the overall impact on the region’s transportation infrastructure. The analysis will focus on the project’s success factors and potential lessons learned for future LRT projects, emphasizing best practices in project management, stakeholder engagement, and technological integration within a complex urban environment. The ultimate aim is to provide a comprehensive overview beneficial to both transit professionals and those interested in urban development strategies that incorporate sustainable transportation solutions.

Project Overview and Stakeholder Engagement

The Mid-Jordan Trax Line, a 10.6-mile double-tracked LRT extension, was a collaborative effort involving numerous stakeholders. Key partners included the Utah Transit Authority (UTA), the Federal Transit Administration (FTA), the Wasatch Front Regional Council (WFRC), Kennecott Land Company, and the cities of Murray, Midvale, West Jordan, and South Jordan, as well as Salt Lake County. This extensive collaboration was crucial for securing funding, navigating regulatory hurdles, and addressing community concerns throughout the project lifecycle. Effective communication and transparent decision-making processes were paramount in managing the expectations of diverse stakeholders. The project’s success highlights the importance of building consensus and fostering a collaborative environment in large-scale infrastructure projects.

Financing and Construction Management

The $535 million project received significant federal funding through the FTA, with a full funding grant agreement of $428 million. Local matching funds from Salt Lake County supplemented the federal contribution. The construction phase, managed by a joint venture between Kiewit, Herzog, and Parsons (KHP), was segmented into five distinct areas to optimize efficiency and coordination. This phased approach allowed for better control over project timelines and resources. The project successfully leveraged expertise from various specialized contractors, including Rocky Mountain Signal Services (RMSS) for train control systems, Hanson Pipe & Precast for railroad crossings, B&B Diversified Materials and Rocky Mountain Steel Mills for track materials. This strategic subcontracting ensured specialized knowledge and reduced the overall project risk.

Technological Integration and System Performance

The Mid-Jordan Trax Line features a mix of at-grade street running and ballasted track, requiring careful integration of various technologies. The installation of overhead catenary systems (OCS), railway signaling equipment, and highway crossing warning systems were crucial for ensuring safe and efficient operations. The use of Siemens S-70 low-floor light rail vehicles (LRVs) facilitated platform-level boarding, enhancing accessibility and improving passenger experience. The 94,000 square-foot service center dedicated to the maintenance and repair of the Trax vehicles demonstrates a commitment to long-term system reliability and operational efficiency. The project’s success highlights the importance of integrated design and the use of modern technologies in delivering reliable and user-friendly LRT systems.

Project Summary and Conclusions

The Mid-Jordan Trax Line project stands as a successful example of collaborative planning and effective execution in light rail development. The project’s seamless integration of various technologies, the efficient management of multiple stakeholders, and the timely completion within budget are noteworthy achievements. The project’s success can be attributed to a number of key factors including: a well-defined project scope, robust stakeholder engagement, strategic subcontracting, efficient construction management, and a focus on technological integration to deliver a high-quality, reliable, and passenger-friendly LRT system. The line’s daily ridership of approximately 19,000 demonstrates its significant contribution to the region’s transportation network. The project’s success offers valuable insights for future LRT projects, particularly in the areas of stakeholder engagement, financial planning, construction management and technological integration. The detailed planning and careful execution of the Mid-Jordan Trax Line provides a blueprint for other cities embarking on similar ambitious transit expansion projects. Future projects would benefit from replicating the emphasis on phased construction to manage complexities, the strategic use of specialized subcontractors, and a focus on delivering a system that meets the needs of the community and promotes sustainable transportation within the region.

Company Information:

• Federal Transit Administration (FTA): A U.S. government agency responsible for funding and overseeing public transportation projects.
• Utah Transit Authority (UTA): The public transit agency responsible for planning, constructing, and operating transit systems in the Salt Lake City metropolitan area.
• Wasatch Front Regional Council (WFRC): A regional planning organization responsible for coordinating land use and transportation planning in the Wasatch Front region.
• Kennecott Land Company: A land development company involved in the project.
• Kiewit, Herzog, and Parsons (KHP): A joint venture of major construction and engineering firms.
• Rocky Mountain Signal Services (RMSS): A joint venture specialized in railway signaling and control systems.
• Hanson Pipe & Precast: A provider of precast concrete products for the railway industry.
• B&B Diversified Materials: A supplier of railway track materials.
• Rocky Mountain Steel Mills: A supplier of steel for the railway industry.
• Siemens: A global technology company that manufactures rolling stock, including LRVs for light rail systems.