South Jordan titled the first public open house concerning upgrades to Shields Lane: “What should the future look like for Shields Lane?” Residents responded and were able to look at detailed maps to focus their requests. 

“This was the first part of the three-phased, eight-month Shields Lane Solution Development Study,” said Deputy City Engineer Jeremy Nielson. “There are a lot of homes, schools and trails that all use Shields Lane so the city believes it’s a good time to study the road and create this vision.” 

The participants signed in with their emails to be on the list of participants. Then the c In looking at the maps and poster boards, it was clear South Jordan residents have strong opinions about what they would like to see happen. Sticky notes were available so people could make their thoughts clear. For example, several notes said ‘No Trucks.’

All of the data from the open house and survey will be combined. If you haven’t seen it, this survey can be found at shieldslane.com. The second phase of the study will include reviewing the criteria and identifying needs to be met. The project team will then develop models that would be plausible and effective. They will seek to model the planning process as
does UDOT.

The study’s phase three will move forward with this solution development process. Planners will be narrowing down opportunities and solutions. Shields Lane is important because it’s one of three east to west corridors in South Jordan. Residents enjoy using it to drive, walk and roll.  And the fact that two elementary schools and one middle school can be accessed from Shields Lane make its successful improvement uniquely crucial. 

“Over the next several months the city will be engaging the public to gain an understanding of community goals and values, working to establish corridor needs and concerns, and eventually identifying solutions to put into
action,” Nielson said.

The evening’s open house was a success because the planners were able to hear and see the thoughts of those involved. There will still be opportunity for engagement and input. They know many people are concerned about Shields Lane and the outcome of this process.

“The city wants to understand how much priority should be placed on traffic calming and making safer amenities for pedestrians, cyclists and other users,” Nielson said.

This study is being led by many groups involved and affected by what happens to Shields Lane. South Jordan City staff has a project team. Also connected to this study are Wasatch Front Regional Council staff, consultant firms and a Stakeholder Committee comprised of city leadership, residents, additional city staff, school and business representatives and regional transportation agencies.

Apparently there will be a long invitation list as this study moves on. As the findings are reviewed and analyzed, the planners will be able to prepare with more public involvement. As it stands, Nielson said the second open house date has not yet been set. But everyone is encouraged to keep updated about the study through South Jordan City’s website,
sjc.utah.gov. λ