streetcar comments

Streetcar Alternatives Public Comment Summary The feedback from the speaker cards, council comments, voice messages, and open forum comments regarding the streetcar alternative routes indicates that the public is highly divided over which alternative best serves the community. The main opinion expressed and agreed upon by all of those who commented is the need for a master transit plan before making a decision about a preferred route. Constituents measure the utility of the project and alternative routes by: the added value of the route to the overall SLC transit system, impact on traffic/pollution, quality of life, and the economic benefits to Sugar House business. The 2100 South alternative received the most feedback overall, both positive and negative. The 1100 East proposal received mostly negative feedback after the public hearing on April 23. Below is a list of the most frequently cited reasons for support or opposition to the 2100 South and 1100 East extension in order of frequency. ROUTE 2100 South PRO 
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Economically Beneficial to Sugar House Businesses Improved access to public centers such as Sugar House Park, Highland High, 4th of July events, 21st & 21st Demonstrated Need‐ High rates of ridership along 2100 South Bus routes General support for improving East‐West Transit Street is wider and can accommodate more traffic Potential to connect line to Foothill Beneficial to Westminster Students and faculty Will offer an alternative to driving and will Decrease in traffic congestion along 1100 East Fewer drivers less pollution Economically beneficial to 1100 East businesses post‐construction Potential to connect to 9th and 9th and University TRAX line CON 
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Safety concerns for students traveling to neighborhood schools across 2100 South: Dilworth Elementary, Hillside Middle School, and young Highland High students drivers Disruptive to residential neighborhood quality Decrease in property values Increased traffic in an already congested area Increase in crime Lack of need/demand for transit above 1300 East. Residents in Highland/Area will not use streetcar service because of socio‐economic status Bus system is just as efficient, functionally and economically Diminishes aesthetic value of Sugar House Will promote commercialization along 2100 South 1100 East is too Narrow Will add to already increase congestion along 1100 East and 21 S/11 E intersection Negative economic impact on 1100 E businesses because of restricted access to customers and deliveries to businesses Diminishes quaint, pedestrian‐ friendly character of Sugar House area The final 1700 South destination will only be of value to Westminster students Restricts access to East‐West bound residential streets crossing 1100 East Additional Interesting Observations 
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One of the most frequently cited concerns was destruction of “community feel” and aesthetic value of the neighborhood All constituents who said they oppose the streetcar altogether, they would prefer the 2100 South proposal to the 1100 East proposal. In expressing opposition to either route, constituents most often referred to the impact on the quality of life in their neighborhood. Constituents define Sugar House as: unique, quaint, pedestrian friendly, bike friendly, open, and peaceful. Important stakeholders commented for both 2100 South and 1100 East proposals. Most of the business owners that commented expressed opposition to the 1100 East proposal. Almost all comments that referenced the Portland streetcar were in favor of the 1100 East proposal. A significant portion of the comments indicated that many constituents are under the impression that the streetcar will need the same design requirements as a TRAX train, such as separate lane, large stops etc. Constituents expressed concern about whether the presence of the streetcar on 1100 East will cause traffic impediments for emergency vehicles due to the narrowness of the street. Most common words in the comments: quiet, peaceful, construction, crime, property, noise, congested, unique, tax‐spending, charm, family, public space, transient, asset, 21st/11th intersection, 4th of July, Highland, Sugar House Park, Foothill, Child safety, hub and spoke, narrow, Dilworth, cute, pollution, bicyclists, pedestrian. Name
Chad Miller
Chris Kirk
Dale Achel
Kent Michi
Comment
My name is Chad Miller. My wife Katy Miller and I live on Ramona Avenue on 1027 Ramona just below 11th East on
the west side of 11th. My wife and I have been remodeling a house there for the last five years. In the process in
remodeling this house we have been required to submit exact plans of what we wish to do on the house. These plans
had to be approved here in this exact in this building I am sitting. We feel that the residents here in Sugar House
would deserve the same respect that you have shown to us as far as reviewing a plan that we’ve submitted. Making
sure that it is a plan that meets specific requirements and also we have seeked your approval to pass off these plans
and so we ask for the same requirements for the city to create a master plan that then can be submitted to the public
that we can vote on and approve. Thank you.
My name is Chris Kirk. I am a commercial real estate broker in town. I’m also a 30 plus year resident of Sugar House. I
own a home below 10th East and my family and I live quite happily there. Two things: one it’s an absolute necessity to
get the live rail system expanded into Sugar House and out of Sugar House. One of the reasons that we would leave
Salt Lake altogether would be air pollution. There’s a lot of density in the area so we absolutely need another rail
spur. But in my opinion I think it needs to go east up 21st South running up to Foothill where you have a lot of office
buildings as well as retail. Then perhaps running north-south on Foothill Drive which would allow to alleviate some
other traffic there. Either way I appreciate everything that you guys are doing to consider this, but I do think more of a
master plan is required. My other concern is for the public safety of my children and a lot of children that are in the
neighborhood. If you run along 11th East I fear that we’ll see more traffic on 10th East and I haven’t heard anybody
comment on that tonight, but 10th East is already a thoroughfare. It should be 20 miles an hour and people are
already driving upwards of 40, 50 miles an hour. So I think we need a little bit more careful consideration on 11th East
route might do there. Thank you
There we go okay. What a bunch of naysayer’s in the other room. Somebody was counting the nays and yeas. I didn’t
really hear any yeas. I‘d like to say, “Yea and I love the trolley.” I love what’s going on. It’s all positive I don’t care
which direction it goes it’s a win situation as far as I’m concerned. I love rail and I love mass transit. I think it is
possible to put a rail line down 11th East without impacting the traffic. What is going to impact the traffic, however is
that the city is growing and it isn’t necessarily growing all that well. Maybe it was a little more thinking in terms of
how to grow the city, but when people say the 11th East is just going to get more congested. Yes it is, trolley or no
trolley you double the size of the city it’s going to create problems. Now it is the time to transportation plan to
prevent those problems because you can’t prevent the growth. I’ve lived in communities with mass transit. I love the
Portland system and the crown jewel of the Portland system is the trolley line. If I could relocate myself I would
relocate myself right onto the Sugar House trolley line somewhere because it’s an absolutely fabulous, fabulous
development in this valley. Thank you very much for putting it in.
Hello Mayor and city council, my name is Kent Mitchie. I'm a long time resident of Salt Lake City. I live in the Parvus
Area — east Sugar House, if you want to call it that. I have the distinction of having a grandfather who was born in
Sugar House in November of 1861. I have been a long time proponent of building out our public transit system. I
would like to suggest that you take the current trolley system up Wilmington to 13th East over to 21st South and up
21st South to 17th East. Then make a loop that would go up 17th East, down 17th South and then south on 11th East.
It seems to me that a system like this needs to loop because it's a one-way system. Just going up and back doesn't
make much sense to me. A loop I heard the fellow that lived in Helsinki, that lived in Helsinki, I've lived there myself.
I know they have a great system and we should have that too. I thank you for your attention and I hope that you'd be
farsighted enough to adopt a long-term public transit plan for Salt Lake City and its residents. Thank you.
Paul Stack
Resident
Sonia Hoysher
Thea Brannon
Tom McCowan
Hi my name is Paul Stack. I'm a resident of Sugar House for six years. I originally got interested in Sugar House because
I was aware of some of the plans for developing the old Denver-Rio Grande right of way and that UTA was thinking
about acquiring it, and that there were the beginnings of a plan for the streetcar. So I've been very pleased to see that
Phase One streetcar coming to fruition. I think it's going great. I think that the extension of the streetcar is a great idea
I think going to Highland, north on Highland to 2100th South and then turning east on 2100 South to get over to
Sugar House Park is a great idea. Sorne Simon Center sent a propose to eventually to go east to Parley’s way maybe
even curve up north to the university to connect with the tracks red line. I think that my basic opinion is that in order
to make the city livable indefinitely and to sort of future proof it we need more public electric transit because I only
see the gas prices are going to go up and up and up. Also removing the pollution generation from within the
neighborhoods is a great idea. Which electric transit allows you know there's a power plant elsewhere its good not to
have the pollution in the neighborhood and its more efficient. So there as an ecological savings of energy that way.
Last my five year old son I have been riding the track system for four years or so since he was old enough, age one, to
go out with me. We've had countless great adventures together on the tracks line going throughout the system. So I
really appreciate all the public transit development. So I'm very in favor of Phase Two along 2100 East and all the way
up to the university if we can more streetcars. Thank you.
I'm a resident of 2100th South. I'm representing some of my neighbors in that area. One thing I do want to represent
is everybody in Sugar House. I don't like the divided atmosphere of the people of 11th East versus the people of 21st
South. I think a master plan needs to be considered that takes into account all of the people in Sugar House, not
dividing the two neighborhoods. Since I live right on 21st South I'm very, very concerned about what's going to
happen to my residential neighborhood. I feel strongly that I moved there, I like the single. I don't think that we will be
very well served by a tracks train going up 21st South to a phantom retail area on 2100 and 2100. It's a very small
area I would much prefer to see bike lanes put in and people walk and get to know their neighbors instead of us
spending tax dollars, uselessly again, on an electrical albatross running up my street. Thank you
Hi my name is Sonia Hoysher. I'm a resident of the Sugar House neighborhood. I live pretty close to the 7/11 that's off
of Highland Drive. I am very much in favor of the streetcar. I do however think it would be better to bring it up 21st
South primarily because the streetcar is already in east-west line and I think you should continue it in that direction to
keep it simple. When you come up with your master plan for transportation I also like to give the advice to keep it
simple, keep routes going north and south, north-south, and routes going east to west, east-west. Thank you.
My name is Thea Brannon. I live on Wilson Avenue up 17th from 21st South, up 17th East. I've lived there for 15
years. I would like to age in place before I'm shuffled off to a nursing home or something, but I am not young like the
Westminster students are. I'm not going to get any younger. I think they should just be able to walk as their leaders
have implied. I think that the whole eastern side of Sugar House from 13th East and up into the benches and that
whole area up in there north of Sugar House Park really needs improved transportation and I think that a
beautification program along 21st utilizing that huge space and allowing easy access to the park. Permitting more
people and up to 21st and making that a really nice business area makes the absolute the most sense. Thanks very
much.
Hi my name is Tom McCowan my purpose of my coming to speak today is really two fold. First I'm here to represent
Walmart. I'm the store manager of the Walmart located on 2100 South. Currently about a third of my staff relies on
public transportation to get to work. Currently, I appreciate all the hard work that's gone into the East Bench master
plan and the public transportation work that's gone in currently and over the last year or so, but I think we would all
agree that there's a need for some sort of public transportation be it a bus, a trolley, something to access the East
Bench area a little more conveniently. So really my purpose today is to represent about 50 plus associates that
currently work at the Walmart and then the local businesses up on the east side of Parleys Way and Foothill that
would appreciate an increase in the public transportation and the ease of access of that area. Thank you.
Tracey Miller
Wayne Witzel
Laurie Layton
Hi my name is Tracey Miller and I currently reside just north of Liberty Park, but for ten years I did live in Sugar House.
So I am very familiar with that area. What I am here representing however, is the organization that I work for which is
Best Friend's Animal Society. For over a year we searched for an excellent location to open sort of a regional center
that also is an adoption center. We found that off of 11th East, of course, and as a non-profit we've sunk in over a
quarter of a million dollars. We've not opened yet, and as a non-profit that's a lot of money to us. Our fear is, and I'm
not saying we believe one way or the other, but our big fear about 11th East is transporting the animals in and out.
The dogs won't be staying overnight and so it's not zoned for that and we don't feel comfortable with that anyways so
that's a big issue. We run a big mobile clinic called The Big Fix on Tour that does low cost spay and neuter. That too is
something were concerned about getting it in and out of there if there is a trolley line. The other thing is if the trolley
line is the major way people are going to be traversing that area what does that do when they stop off at our
adoption center, fall in love with some big, black lab and how do they get it back home? So those are just some of our
concerns and thank you for your time.
My name is Wayne Witzel my wife and I own Image Eyes Optical on 11th East. We’ve been there for ten years we love
Sugar House. I think we have a business that could be mass transit or at least trolley proof like a dentist or like a hair
dresser. I think people like their eye glass Optician, which by the way we do help a few people on this Council. I am for
mass transit, but it has to be well planned out. I am not quite sure why we don’t attempt with limited tax dollars to
move mass quantities of people maybe down 7th East and then running a spur up 21st I think that makes great sense.
I am a little concerned about 11th East. I’m a little concerned about such a short track line from 21st to 17th with
those limited tax dollars and federal transportation dollars. I understand and I’ve suggested as before why not running
up 21st and make 11th East and 13th East one way streets? Terminating at maybe 11th East at Highland and 13th and
11th going north at 4th South for instance. I am sure that can be well thought out. I also have a question why is it that
UTA or the city cannot run up state routes or have right away access? For instance on Foothill or I think 7th East is
also a state route. I am curious to know the answer to that question. Thank you.
Good evening Council my name is Laurie Layton and for seven years I’ve owned and operated Boxing Is For Girls on
1100 East. We are against the 1100 East streetcar for many reasons but the reason I will address tonight is about
numbers. Numbers of constituents’ residents and interested parties of the area. On behalf of theses individuals I have
submitted a 1565 signature petition which you should have. This 1565 signature petition was amassed in only seven
days. The last seven days. Seven days ago when this issue was brought to our attention by a concerned neighbor. In
seven days 1565 signatures from business residences and interested parties were gathered. They were gathered
together right from in front of our business on 1100th East. We did not travel off of the street. There were 1565 of
your citizens that said no to the 1100th East streetcar. Yes you did a ten month study regarding the streetcar and all
that it involved. In the ten months you had three meetings. Only 200 people were involved in those three meetings.
200 people that’s what’s in your PDF file. You did your due diligence of mailers, fliers, and media however; the reality
is that still only 200 people showed up to those meetings and the majority of people didn’t even know as she said.
1565 people spoke against the proposed 1100th East streetcar line after it was brought to their attention. These
people have spoken. They have said, “No.” 1565 is a bigger voice than 200. There’s a less damaging and more
effective route. I know you can and will find it. 1565 of your constituent’s citizens of Salt Lake and Sugar House.
(Alarm)
Eliza James
Emily Ford
Michael Aret
Hi my name is Eliza James. For seven years I’ve owned and operated Boxing Is For Girls P-I-F-G in the proposed project
area. This is my street! This is your street! This is all of our street. We are Sugar House and we are against the 11th
streetcar alignment. We are local. We have been busy building this street. We are the grit of the street true grit. We
have been working tirelessly to build the foundation by building local businesses that attract people from all over the
community that drive in their cars with their families to shop, eat and play. We have made 11th East a part of their
lives a part of their routine. They come here several times weekly. We are local listen to us. We are what makes our
city interesting. We are sexy we don’t need a streetcar to do that. We are thriving and evolving at a natural pace. We
are moving in the right direction. We want what you want. Don’t disrupt the growth we have been working years to
create. Believe in us we believe in you. We are the movement that you are looking for. I could state the facts but
others have done that well. Instead I come to you with something real. We are that real change you are looking for.
It’s already happening. We are a dying people without something real. The heart something from the inside. We are
the heart of Sugar House. Give us some more time. We are great soon to be grand we do not need a streetcar to be
grand. We have already built it and more are coming. They are coming. We will rise and we are rising. Thank you.
My name is MJ Ford I live and work on 1100 East. I’m opposed to the 1100th East streetcar tracks line alignment for
many reasons but I’ll present just one the matter of public safety. The great city of San Francisco has many streetcar
routes. The cost to the city of San Francisco is $12 million dollars yearly in injury lawsuits paid out to the public for
injuries related to the streetcar. Even though the Sugar House streetcar is not open air and more like the small bus
with the tracks and wires. It does stop two times more frequently than UTA bus and will add dramatically to the
confusion and congestion that’s already on this small street. The street is too small for the streetcar. It will predictably
cause increase in pedestrian accidents vehicle accidents, bicycle accidents it will not only injure our citizens, but cost
the tax payers millions of dollars because of the lawsuits from these injuries. The 2100th South route will of course
have an increase in accidents as well. However, because of the larger more expansive nature of 2100 South people
are not running across 2100 South as they are 1100th East. There will be less harm and financial liability. 1100th East
is a very busy street and people are going to get hurt. I’m here to protect the people that’s what I do. We’re not a
number we’re people. We’re a growing community. You want to preserve the character of the Sugar House
community then let us continue to build it. Thank you for your time.
Good evening. My name is Michael Aret I’m an attorney and homeowner in the Stratford neighborhood of Sugar
House. I come to the issue of the Sugar House tracks expansion as an ardent supporter of Phase One of this project. I
am also a one time member of the Friends of Sugar House and South Salt Lake streetcar. That being said, after
reviewing the various options contained in the Phase One Alternatives Draft Report. It is safe to say that I’m not
currently a friend of the streetcar. My concern with the draft report and with information gleamed from other publicly
available documentation is that the city seems to be proceeding with no clear plan in mind. What began as tracks for
Phase One is now expected to sprout spurs of it’s own and almost half-hazard fashion right through the heart of Sugar
House. An already congested traffic area this intersection of 11th East and 21 South is to be made worse for it’s
residents. I can find nothing in the material published by the city to demonstrate where, when or how these new
spurs will connect to the existing tracks network. Vague illusions further north with expansion along 11th East is not a
plan it is a daydream. Until the city can demonstrate a master plan it has no business committing tax dollars to an
increasingly seems link an expensive vanity project. One of the reasons I supported Phase One of this project was that
it contemplated future expansion of the tracks line. The rail easement Phase One occupies per my understanding, is
wide enough to accommodate a second set of tracks should passenger levels demand it. Nothing this draft report
however indicates planning for parallel tracks in Phase One. 30 years from now the same council al be it with new
personalities will be cursing the short-sightedness of their predecessors for failing to plan for a more robust track
system. I urge the city to put the brakes on further expansion of Sugar House tracks line until 1. There is a
comprehensive master plan published. And 2. The city has adequately accounted for how the chosen route will
eventually accommodate parallel tracks. At present none of the Phase One alternatives meet these requirements as
such the council should adopt none of them at the present time.
Andrea HaHee
Pamela Pederson
Ben Labrum
Hi I’m Andrea Hahee I commute to Sugar House for work which is on 1100th East nearly every day and I have been for
the past two and a half years. I spent a great deal of my time running and walking along the 1100th East. I do this with
my clients and on my own time. I enjoy the vibe, the beauty and the sense of community that the area has. People are
welcoming, friendly and we all know each other. Putting up tracks on this narrow street will destroy that. Also obesity
in America is an epidemic 60 percent of Americans are obese. Let’s get out and walk a block or two. We’re a walk able
and active community. As our neighbor Urbana says and I quote. “Just outside your door is every imaginable shop,
service and amenity. To discover it just put one foot in front of the other. We recently made the decision to sell a
home that we built ourselves to move to the Sugar House area and be a part of the neighborhood that we’ve grown
to love. However if a streetcar’s going to run down the neighborhood where our children will we will reconsider this
area. It is a family oriented place and families with children are not going to park their big cars to ride a streetcar
around Sugar House for $2.50 two fifty a person. It will cause traffic and parking to run down the residential streets. It
will be noisy. Make street parking difficult if not impossible and it will ruin the sense of community that draws people
to it. Simply put I am against it. Thank you.
I’m Pamela Peterson. I have two sets of keys to two businesses in the area that is being affected by this proposal. I
work and train at the gym where you’ve heard some people and I own the Central Book Exchange which is just north
of the 21st – 11th East intersection. In 1986 My business was already very well established although obviously I didn’t
own it. In that time 11th East was shut down for an entire summer while the city pulled out the old existing tracks for
streetcars. My store was nearly shut down that summer because people could not get there. It never really recovered
from that summer and it’s actually amazing that it’s still open so I could buy it 2005. That’s a long time to be hurt by a
city project. Illogical plans with high price tags and no real destinations are not a good idea. When I talk about no real
destinations if the tracks would go along 21st South there’s some logical destinations there. Sugar House Park, Navy
Highland High school that makes sense. This proposed line would end by the 711. So I guess if you’re in the mood for
a hotdog you have somewhere to get it. That doesn’t make sense to taxpayers. Mayor Becker just talked about having
a lean budget. Just because we’re getting federal funds does not mean we should waste them. My business is
dependant on future inventory coming into my front door by people bringing boxes of books. They need cars and
trucks to transport those heavy boxes they really do. There are thousands of pounds a week that come in. Locking
customers are great and numbers will increase over time as current construction projects finish. If my core customer
base starts to believe they can’t easily access my store they’ll stop coming. We really do need to vote down this
proposal. There’s just a lot of better ideas out there thank you. (Timer beep)
Hi I’m Ben Labrum seems like no one else wants the streetcar, but I do. I live at 21st South and it makes a whole lot of
sense to me. I’ll tell you why it’s the air pollution. We can see it really well from – to connect everything. We can see it
really well from up on the East Bench right? It’s stewing down in the valley and sometimes it seems like we’re not
down in it, but we are. We’re breathing the same air and we’re actually a big part of the problem. Because every time
we go somewhere we’re driving a car. Hey kids let’s go down to the skate park Fairmont Park. Let’s go swimming.
Let’s go play soccer. Everywhere we go we drive because there is no viable public transit option Parley) Way Country
Club Heights. So I do want the streetcar? I think it would be really neat the way my neighborhood is with how wide
21st is instead of hearing those car keys jingle to hear that trolley jingle. We’ll just hop on and then we can go down
to Sugar House and spend some money on 11th East and all that stuff. So you guys don’t want it. I do want it.
Hopefully you’ll re-route it up 21st some day. Thanks very much.
J.D. Smith
Hi I’m J.D. Smith Chair of the 21st and 21st business district. I am speaking on behalf of 20 plus business and property
owners that are part of our non-profit organization. I want to start of by first Mr. Mayor, city council thanking you for
four years ago putting a focus on neighborhood business nodes. It was through this focus and this energy that we
established our business district. With that establishment we started looking at a vision for the business district. A
vision we started looking around at how can we make our neighborhood a better business district for the
neighborhood and the residents that surround us. We looked at 9th and 9th is a prime example of how property
owners and business owners partnered with the city to redesign reconfigure the way people move within that district.
It’s now one of the crown jewels of Salt Lake City. When we crated our vision we looked at the same kind of things
that 9th in 9th has reducing traffic flow one way each way on 2100th South turn lanes, medians (Unintelligible
0:19:10) at the crosswalks, increase crosswalks, bike lanes, off street amenities like trash cans and bike racks that we
already have. Park benches more shade trees and of course part of our vision three years ago is a streetcar. Whenever
we would talk about a streetcar people would say, “Hold on let’s talk about some smaller things we can work on now
there will be time enough to talk about a streetcar”. In the last public hearing and the last moment with our last
breath we get to make our appeal for a streetcar. Rather than go down 11th East in a thriving district that works.
Eventually possibly the 9th and 9th and tearing up of streets that work. We invite you to bring it to 17th East so that
together we can have a discussion about enthusiastically taking of the streets of 21 and 21 reconfiguring redesigning
and creating the next great jewel of Salt Lake City that consists of local unique business communities. Bring the route
to the East for our businesses for our employees, for our residents and neighbors. Thank you.
Thank you very much. My name is Christopher Thomas. I am the Chair of the Sugar House Community Council and it’s
a pleasure to be with you here this evening. I’m going to talk about briefly two different documents I have submitted.
One is on Sugar House Community Council letterhead and it reports the results of strap polls that we did. We asked
two questions the first was, “What do you want to do with the Monument Plaza? The overwhelming response was to
make it a pedestrian plaza. The second had to do with where the streetcar would go. By margin of two to one those
that we polled preferred the alignment to go east on 21st South as oppose to north on 11th East. So that’s all I’m
going to say about that and that’s in the capacity of Sugar House Chair. Now I’m going to talk about what I think as a
resident of Sugar House. First of all I just want to say, “Thank you.” Because I’m really excited about the Sugar House
Christopher Thomas streetcar. I think it’s going to bring really good opportunities to our area and I really thank you for your time and
energy in that direction. I also want to applaud the city council’s effort to devise a master plan for transit for the
whole city it’s desperately needed. I look forward to the day when people can choose to live in Salt Lake City and not
have a car to get around. I think that will bring big benefits to our city. So with that in mind my preference would be to
actually wait until that master transit plan is devised before deciding which direction the streetcar would go.
However, if you forced me to choose one of the two alignments I would choose going east along 2100th South. I
should say also with going through the Shop-co block and I believe this affords some good opportunities. One is to do
some re-development in the Shop-co block that could help anchor this new transit and a new transit oriented type of
development that can help support that new phase of the streetcar. Second I believe – I think 2100th South just has
more room to accommodate a streetcar. (Timer Beep) Lastly I believe that you can do a nice corridor east and west
along 2100th South. So those are all my comments tonight and thank you for your time.
Jason Reesin
Good evening my name is Jason Reesin. I’m here tonight to express my concern with the streetcar extension route
proposed to go down 1100th East. I’m afraid if this project is given the council’s approval and construction of it’s
extension begins on 1100th East this quaint section of Sugar House may be lost. Some businesses may not be able to
survive the decrease of revenue during the construction. Construction will always have an impact in the area it is in.
But I feel for the 1100th East businesses and homeowners to have to endure the scale of construction needed to
complete this project on such a narrow street is not justified and not good business. Heavy equipment will need to be
used to get this work completed. The major goal of the contractor is production therefore the largest pieces of
equipment that they can bring into the area will be utilized. This equipment will clog up the streets and possibly
damage businesses, homes, utilities and public property. These areas that are outside the work zone will have to be
repaired and may never match its preexisting condition. Because of the constructions own footprint traffic control
required to complete the project many existing customers may not spend money at their favorite shops. New
customers will avoid the area. These new customers will miss out on all these great shops, studios, bookstores and
restaurants with owners who have taken pride in establishing their businesses in such a unique way. Who is truly
going to benefit from this expenditure besides the contact and design engineers? Having walked down 1100th East
several times I have notice the goal of this project is trying to accomplish is already available. I’m referring to the bus
and it is already operational. It does not require any additional construction or overhead wires to make it run. If the
public likes the idea of a nostalgic streetcar image in the neighborhood it would be a better value and less impact to
current businesses and homeowners to purchase a rubber tire trolley as many cities use these in small
neighborhoods. (Timer beep) I’m asking you tonight to reconsider your proposal of taking the Sugar House traffic
extension down to 1100the East. Thanks for your time.
Good evening council members. Good evening Mayor. I had the pleasure of living in Helsinki Finland for three years
with one of the most fabulous public transportation systems in Europe. They had trams, streetcars, metro buses and it
works really, really well. When the city came up with the idea of expanding the program to the suburbs and that’s
Richard Hayes Olsen when the disaster happened. What happened is they developed a metro system that only had one lane for the
streetcars or the trams. And what happens is the clogging and the clogging and the clogging. Especially in the snow. So
what the motorists do is they take alternative routes. Then you notice something such as 13th East or 9th East will get
clogged, and clogged, and clogged because no one wants to follow a streetcar in the snow because it keeps stopping.
Then the motorists say to themselves, “That’s my other alternative.” So they take these alternatives. I own a home on
1300th East it’s already a nightmare to back out onto there. If we put the streetcar in 11th East and you ask the
residents on 13th East what they think about it, it’s just going to jam them. In order for this to work there needs to be
two lanes. There needs to be the street car land and then there needs to be the car lane. It doesn’t
Amy Berry
Maggie Shaw
Renaldo Hunt
My name is Amy Berry and I have submitted lengthy written comments to you of why I prefer the alignment on
2100th South. I’m going to direct you to read those because they’re more eloquent than I will talk about tonight. I
would like to address some issues that have come up. So I have lived in Sugar House for 16 years. I live just below
Westminster College right off 11th East right off 21st South. Either direction this goes I feel like I get to win from it.
But I want to commend the city and the city council for their commitment to the streetcar because within a half a mile
three quarter of a mile radius of my house we are adding in the next few years a thousand apartments. That’s great,
but if we don’t have a multimodal transit system we’re not going to be able to handle that. It’s not going to just affect
the business district of Sugar House because those motorists are going to travel. They’re going to continue to increase
the congestion on 11th East. They’re going to travel up 21st South. That density will spread and we need a streetcar.
We need a streetcar system. We need a bus system. We need roads. We need all of those in order to keep growing to
accommodate those. Residents and businesses I think that the congestion is a prime example of why we need a
streetcar. I think air pollution is a prime example of why we a streetcar. We need those things in my community and I
think that they can co-exist with residential areas. I don’t think a streetcar needs to be common enemy to those
things. I do also think a streetcar is about connecting neighborhoods and providing opportunities. Which is one of the
reasons why I support taking it up 21st South because we don’t give them many options other than being in their
vehicle. I do ultimately support the streetcar and I commend you for that commitment because we are going to need
it.
Hi I’m Maggie Shaw and I live at 1150 east Wilson Avenue. So I am sandwiched between Westminster College and
11th East. 11th East is very congested. I find the streetcar as a possible solution to that congestion not as adding to it.
I’ve lived in my house since 1985. I’ve been a former chair of the Sugar House Community Council. I think it’s fair to
say I have a long time commitment to Sugar House. I would very much like to see a city wide transportation plan
before we commit to anything. That being said, if I have to choose today I am in favor of the 11th East alignment. It
will maybe be difficult in the short term, but in the long term I think it will be wonderful for the businesses there. I
went – I had the opportunity to join Mayor Becker on the Portland streetcar trip back in I believe it was 2009. There’s
a neighborhood in Northwest Portland that looks very, very much like Sugar House. Residential it’s neighborhoodie it
has a 23rd northwest goes down as buildings much like the little businesses we have in Sugar House and it works
there. It’s wonderful there hasn’t been some big ugly build out because of it. It is still residential. When we got off the
streetcar there everybody looked around and went this looks like Sugar House. This is what we could have. So I’m
very much in favor of the streetcar. I would like to see more study and for now I am in favor of the 11th East
alignment thank you.
My name is Renaldo Hunt. I’d like to thank everyone for their time this evening. I’m a commercial real estate
developer. I develop high density residential mixed use product in Sugar House and other areas in Salt Lake. I’m in
support of the streetcar whole heartedly. I actually like to see it go up 21st mainly for functionality. 1300th East is a
pretty big disconnect to the rest of the east side of Salt Lake. It’s a relatively high traffic corridor. It’s a dangerous
intersection on 2100th and 13th East for pedestrians and bikers primarily in an auto intersection for now. I’d like to
see downtown Sugar House connect to probably the largest amenity within the Sugar House area is the park. It’s one
of the only parks in the area that is primarily used year round for skate, skiing, running for children playing. So I think
as the Sugar House becomes a more dense neighborhood the residential capacity increases, the height increases, the
density increases. I think it would be a good idea to allow the residents convenient access to Sugar House Park and
alternative the quarter that they’re building under 1300th East, but something that you know if you’re trying to skate
ski in the winter you live in downtown Sugar House. You want to just pop up to the park and get some exercise you
can take your skis on it and not have to get into a car and drive. Conversely if you have a family one of the apartment
units’ downtown Sugar House you can pop onto the trolley and go up to the park with the kids and not have to get
into a car and drive. So I think realistically as the density increases in Sugar House I think a functional option to
connect to the park community asset would be a streetcar. It would also encourage additional growth and planned
density of east of 1300th East. So I think it would be a good unifying system for not only Sugar House, but the rest of
the upper east Bench. I thank you for your time, have a good evening.
Douglas Cotan
Clayton Giliant
Judy Short
First of all I once rode a streetcar in San Francisco about 1976 and I quite enjoyed it. I quite enjoyed riding these white
rail trains. My first question is: What difference does it make which direction the streetcar goes? I think what the city
is doing and what U-T-A’s doing is trying to provide transportation so that people don’t have to pay – so that people
don’t have to pay high gas prices because in some areas gas prices are outrageous. So I should think that a streetcar
would be welcomed like the white rail, the heavy rail and the buses. Besides that I think the streetcar should go into
areas where buses and the white rail doesn’t go. That would provide more opportunities for people to leave their cars
home and not have to pay high gas prices. Thank you.
Hello my name’s Clayton Giliant I’m Stacie Lidbeck we’re general engineering contractors specializing in light rail and
streetcar construction in dense urban environments. I’d like to try tamper some of the anxiety related to the
construction by describing mitigation tools and success stories involving streetcar construction. We have proven tools
and proven results and it is in our best interest to ask small businesses survive and prosper during and after
construction. Rapid fire of the mitigation tools that we use we use probably notifications personally delivered that are
easy to read and direct traffic to these businesses. We flag you in with professional and courteous flaggers. The
streetcar construction is not door front to door front construction so it’s not as invasive as full scope light rail
construction. We can use or whoever the contractor is can use distinct contained tidy work zones and not tear it up all
at once. 24/7 hotline, quick responses, community advisory committee to help with our traffic control schemes for
example. On Phase One the consensus was to come across 700th East with a short duration field closure. We did that
in 48 hours. We can use flexible work hours, nights, and weekends. We can specifically plan around special events.
We can support businesses with the shop Sugar House program to have our own people shop there. Pedestrian
access bridges, driveway coordination, pre-cast concrete components to help exhilarate construction. Quickly just
proven statements from past businesses large and small where we’ve worked Organ Convention Center. We’ve gone
down beyond to accommodate all of the Organs Convention Center requests these are quotes. What will state
university minimal disruption to campus operations. Hock watch here in Sugar House receptive to our concerns noise
and traffic disturbance minimal. Sugar House BBQ, Phenomenal Communications, and (Timer Beep) extra little things
to help me as a business owner.
Hi Judy Short. I’ve given you a letter tonight which summarizes the fact that both our Sugar House Council and the
others who attended one of our two meetings this month are split about which alternative they preferred. Even our
Executive Committee is split we’ve heard that tonight. I think the decision is being made without having a plan in
place. I can understand why Phase One was built because you had the alignment. However, I really think the smart
thing to do is put together a city-wide transportation plan. That includes buses and streetcars. One that serves the
people on the east side of town and relieves some of the traffic on Foothill Boulevard. Gives us decent bus service to
those that live above 13th East in Sugar House. Decide where you want the growth to be and design the plan to fit
that. Don’t try to increase the density at the expense of our wonderful eclectic neighborhoods. Fill up the spaces that
have more capacity. For example the Shop-co block including the north side of Wilmington Avenue. The 21st East and
21st South intersection and the corner of 7th East and 21st South on all four corners. 7th East and 21st South is soon
going to be form based code. That will give lots of possibilities for future development. We understand the
population’s expected to double, but you still need preserve quality of life. Our city can’t be just high rise apartment
buildings. We need to preserve some single family housing. Maybe 50 years from now will all be five story buildings
along 11th East, but we aren’t there yet. Make a plan and execute the plan over time. Personally I favor the 21st
South alignment for all the reasons in my letter, but I think you need to think about whether you just approve it –
approve 11th East or maybe you can be bold and design a plan first.
Kenner Kingston
Sarah Woolsey
Brandon Lloyd
Pat Newhouse
Good evening. Thank you for the opportunity to express a point of view. I come to you as a – with a unique point of
view in terms of being both a resident at the 17th and 17th area close to one of the contemplated spur locations and
also a business owner at 2505 Parleys Way. This is an interesting debate. As I was sitting outside I chatted with a few
different people. You know in my mind it was a very simple issue. I’ve spoken with some folks who favor the 8th East
direction and I of course, favor the 21st South direction. We’re lucky to have these first world problems and we’re
lucky that you’ve brought this issue to us as a public to consider how to make our community better. The truth of the
matter is we’ll be well served as a community in either case. I do believe that – I agree with J.D. Smith the 21st and
21st area is underserved and is ready for that kind of growth that he suggested. The 11th East corridor is well
developed, has a great scale and additional transportation options will only crowd out other even more sustainable
transportation options such as bike lanes etcetera for that area. 21st South on the other hand is seven plus lanes wide
at the park could really use something to break down the scale. Needs that kind of refurbishment along 21st South
and moving on the way up to the end of Parley’s way. When Wal-Mart was contemplating it’s re-zone discussion I did
discuss with Delia Garcia the opportunity for and the concept of a park and ride at that location. Which at the time
they seemed very open to and indeed they used it in their discussion. I would be surprised if they didn’t welcome that
opportunity. I’ve read Sorren’s letter on the topic. It’s very well thought through and would support every aspect of it.
Thank you for the time.
Hi my name is Sarah Woolsey and thank you all for your service. I’m going to support a number of my neighbors and
business owner neighbors. I do not favor the 11th East extension of the streetcar. I’m a homeowner one block west of
where the streetcar would be on Hollywood Avenue. I’d just like to state that two points related to that. Number one
when I asked the R-D-A investigators about the traffic studies that they’ve done on side streets there have not been
done any. They have not looked on impact to the residence on either the east or the west of 11th East. We are
already under high pressure from all the development in Sugar House. The quality of life of our residential
neighborhood is at risk. I’m concerned about that not being taken into consideration as this was favored by the city.
The second concern I have is for development along 11th East that might follow the streetcar. We already have some
high rises shadowing our little bungalow homes. We already have businesses that are quaint, but I fear they’ll be torn
down and a lot more high rise development will come and will change the character and quality of the neighborhood
that I love. So I encourage us to maintain the quality of our neighborhood and to also consider if any extension is
done that we study not just the main streets, but the side streets for the quality of life of Sugar House residents.
Thank you.
We’re here to express the support of Westminster College student body for the 1100th East alignment of the Sugar
House streetcar. Westminster’s made up of over 3300 students and several hundred faculty, staff and adjuncts. 54
percent of our entering classes from out of state and while some criticize Westminster’s students for not being true
Sugar House locals we believe we are. Our students give over 70 thousand hours of community service annually to
local businesses and non-profits. Westminster contributes more than $40 million in direct spending and $182 million
dollars in indirect and induced spending per year leaving an annual economic impact of nearly $80 thousand per
student. These numbers show the true impact of our campus in our community and countless hours our students
spend serving, shopping and living in the community prove that we are invaluable to Sugar House. Currently
Westminster spends more than $11 thousand dollars per month to provide U-T-A transportation to all the students,
faculty, staff and campus members. This results in a monthly 10 thousand trips. On an average day 332 members of
our campus will use public transportation just to reach our campus alone. Not to mention the surrounding districts
that we are so closely connected with.
Good evening. I’m Pat Newhouse and I am a business owner on 11th East. I’ve been in Sugar House for 17 years. I
own the Awakening Heart Gifts and Books and I’m right there on the Hollywood Avenue and 11th East. So I know
exactly the intersection that the previous speaker was referring to because I get to look at it every day and I see the
congestion that is there on that particular intersection. I am definitely not in favor of the Sugar House Trolley going up
11th East. I think it’s a really short sided idea. I think that it would be much more advantageous to run it up 21st
South. I read the letter that Sorren sent out to all the businesses in the neighborhood. I really do agree with what he
had to say. I think he did a very excellent job in describing how that could unfold. I feel that that is a really much
better way of approaching that idea with the trolley. So I would hope that you all would consider the 21st South
approach as opposed to the 11th East. Thank you.
Michael Rubin
Donald Galler
Lee Langston
Lisa Hildebrand
At Westminster we’re taught to look at all the facts and ultimately when it comes down to it the 1100th East will get
the most rider ship out of both the options. Also the reason when it comes down to it why Westminster students
support it so much is because looking though the future has the most ability to connect Westminster with the
community through the rider ship of this and connecting it down to 9th and 9th and further on to downtown where
most of the students have internships and jobs. It will also help promote a lot of the walk ability throughout ad
increase foot traffic into all of these local businesses that students not only work at, but also visit daily. So when it
comes down to it Westminster and it’s students most of us support the 1100th East because when it (Timer beep) it
just makes sense.
Good afternoon. Being electronically challenged I’m not going to watch any of your emails and stuff like that. I do
want to tell you I came from an area where there’s lots of tracks, tracks trains and so forth. In that area we learned a
slogan stop, look and listen. I’d like to use that as I present some of the things that has come about to me. Number
one we need to stop wasting money and time trying to fix something that isn’t broken. We need to stop embellishing
bus rider ship that doesn’t exist up to 23rd East on 21st South. When school is out when summer’s here, when days
are off for vacation rider ship is not more than a hand full of people. Stop promising one thing and then performing a
bait and switch. A trolley or a streetcar is not a retro-fitted tracks train. Stop and make a definite real plan with real
information that has been discussed with those primarily impacted. Not just a – I think I want this. Stop form based
zoning it does not belong in well established neighborhoods. Stop pitting one neighborhood against another
neighborhood. This idea of where it should go 11th or 21st should not even be. Now let’s go to look. Look at the good
inadequate job that is being done by E-T-A buses. The bus system and remember that they are already looking for
retrofit buses with electrical and natural gas. Look and see that there are two real options to the University of Utah.
Bus number 21 which goes directly to the University of Utah one short trip down to the main track system takes the
red line and it goes directly into the University of Utah a and the hospital systems up there.
That’s a tough one to follow. My name’s Lee Langston I’m a relatively new resident there on 11th East right by
Hollywood. Which either gives me a little bit of street cred depending upon one’s opinion on this. I have street cred
for buying into the transit idea and moving there or I have no right to talk for the opinion I have. But I personally
support the alignment up 11th East. For me it’s a matter of scale and what a streetcar is and what it can be. When I
think about 11th I see a street that’s scaled towards that type of transit and that type of shopping and residences and
so forth. I see an opportunity to connect up through to 9th and 9th and then the tracks. Obviously everybody sees a
potential but you connect two shopping districts that are on a small intimate walk able scale. When I look out 21st
East or 21st South headed east I see a wider street that carries a lot more traffic and for the first extension of this line
really just has a park on one side and kind of scattered businesses on the other. Effectively one side of the street has
one destination which is the park so I think that’s something to consider. I just think that in the long run really the
scale is what matters here. The east side absolutely deserves some solutions, but I think it deserves larger scale
solutions that are thought out better. As for myself I wouldn’t mind if we waited for a master plan as well. I see
Foothill we talk about it going to Foothill. If you’re covering that kind of distance I don’t know that you want to be in a
streetcar. I think maybe you do want to be in something that’s a little more like a train. Certainly coming down
Foothill from the U is something that looks a lot more like a train. So I think those are things to consider and thank
you for your time.
Hi I have decided to change what I was going to say because you haven’t been representing the people who actually
live in the area that is zoned for residents. From 15th East to 21st East on 21st South and I live there. I love the area. It
has been zoned for residential since 1952 when they destroyed the prison. All of that neighborhood was starting to be
developed. As a neighborhood as what I would call a live able area like Mayberry. We love our neighbors. We love
that we have a park. We love that we can get downtown easily. I have a bus stop in front of my home. I get to have
the trash, the graffiti everything that comes from that, but I wanted to live in the area because I love the area. Don’t
destroy my street because the people that love Sugar House love it the way it is and we don’t want to see it destroyed
by commercial venture and commercial creep up 21st South. That’s not what we want and that’s not why we moved
there. Please understand how we are passionate about where we live and where we want to shop and where we
want to be in our life and that’s all. Thank you.
David Gall
Jeff woodberry
Deb Henry
Mr. Mayor council members thank you very much for this opportunity of expressing my own personal opinion about
the plan for the streetcar along 1100thEast. In my opinion this is not a streetcar named Desire. It is a streetcar that is
undesirable. I think by virtue of the opinions and this may not be a public survey here tonight, but I think the opinions
are extremely important. If you are counting the opinions as I have done for the last hour there are 21 nays and there
are 7 yeas. In my opinion that is important and I’m hoping that one of the previously gentlemen here who
emphatically talked about listening. I hope you are listening to this because I think it’s very significant. One of the
other things that I’d like to mention is that my wife and I when we moved here to Salt Lake City eight years ago we
had a choice. We had a choice of living anywhere within the state. We chose to live in Sugar House for a number of
reasons. First of all the community effect that it has on a number of people living within Sugar House. The proximity
to a number of wonderful parks in the area. The proximity to the downtown area which is certainly very, very vital. I
think that by adding additional traffic along 1300th East – pardon me 1100th East, is going to do nothing but cause
people aggravation in terms of being able to commute. I thinks it’s going to become very undesirable. My wife and I
are both tax payers. We’re permanent residents. We’re not here for a semester for a year we’re not here for four
years. We are permanent tax payers and because of that we are extremely vocal within our community and we
certainly participate very actively. We do not want to see the extension along 1100th East. These are tax dollars. I
understand that there are grants from the federal government. Let’s be prudent in terms of how we spend that
money. We are not on the dole. If we use those tax dollars we will eventually have to pay for that in some form or
other. Again there are only two guaranties in life death and taxes.
Hi! I’m Jeff Woodberry I live at 2240 South 2300 East. I’m a property owner in Sugar House. I’m a streetcar advocate. I
was a streetcar nay sayer until I went to Portland with the council and the Mayor. I saw that it didn’t increase traffic. I
saw that it worked well with traffic on the streets. I mean they’re like buses in effect. I went thinking just the opposite.
We talked to businesses. We talked to property owners. We talked to people in the neighborhoods. The people in the
neighborhoods had all the concerns that all of you had, but it actually worked out to be an improvement. Last week I
was in Dallas and they have a new streetcar system in Dallas. I looked at the access to Walters Park which is a new
park created there. Literally thousand of new people that don’t live in the neighborhood were getting access to that
park. It was a tremendous thing to see. In my viewpoint it’s all about getting people out of cars and getting them on
convenient mass transit. So I’m actually for where ever we’re going to get the most rider ship that’s what I’m for.
Personally I’d love it to go up 21st because that’s where I live and I want to get on the streetcar from the stand point. I
don’t want you to wait and delay. I want this to get going. I want people to learn how to ride the streetcar and I think
it could be a good thing. I think it will improve the neighborhood as it does in Portland and Dallas of which I’ve seen
with my own eyes. Thank you.
Hi! My name is Deb Henry and I’m a member and trustee of the Sugar House Community Council. Just for some
background on my comments. I have a degree in civil engineering with the transportation public policy focus. I have
worked directly in road construction on projects exactly like this, but now I’m focused on public policy that improves
our air and the cohesiveness of our relationships in our community. I bought my house specifically my first priority to
be in proximity to transit because I knew it would maintain or dramatically improve it’s value with proximity to such
valuable infrastructure. I am disappointed in the members of my community who would compromise their air quality
by rejecting public transit and subjecting innocent children to increase rates of cancer and asthma. Personally I prefer
21st South I know the study folders was 1100th East. I’m very concerned because of the models used in the study to
evaluate the roots have a hard time qualifying and quantifying the value of a destination like Sugar House Park . Just
as on the side Central Park in New York City was just valued by an appraisal firm at $528 billion dollars. The Sugar
House hopefully within the next thee years a park that will continue to grow in value. Further more we have the
opportunity to have an entire high school full of kids fall in love with the social and economic freedom of public
transit just like I did as a child. The streetcar will allow these students own independence and automobiles. I’m against
the 1100th East for reason which you’ve heard a lot of tonight, but my main concerns that this whole conversation
has a lack of public support in general. We’re compromising the public health process and losing our capacity to come
to a consensus as a community through dialogue. Thank you.
Mike Christianson
Steve Joyce
William Hackens
Don Thorpe
Thank you. I’m a student at the University of Utah studying transportation planning so I could literally talk here for
hours and probably put everyone to sleep. One of the things I’ve observed here tonight is that there is – there tends
to be a great resistance to change. Which I think is kind of bad because everything in life changes. One of the things
that’s bound to happen very soon is the price of our gasoline will continue to keep rising as oil becomes more and
more scarce. So we need to find transportation alternatives. I would really like to see the streetcars return to the
entire city. I would really like to see a master plan that would show residents the – how that entire network would
work and how it would serve the city and make the city a more resilient in the face of change. With that being said as
far as the options on the table right now I do prefer 1100th East because it does make the most sense form a
transportation planning perspective. It is the neighborhood that is most like the streetcar neighborhoods that I’ve
observed in Portland. Thank you.
Thank you. I’m Steve Joyce I live on Hollywood Avenue in a 100 year old bungalow about a block west of the proposed
11th East extension. I’m against that extension for a lot of the reasons that have been previously mentioned. It’s a
narrow street two lanes not much parking. Not much room to expand it if that was considered. Right now it seems to
be best served as a two lane road with bike routes. I’m not necessarily in favor of going up 21st South without a plan.
That’s been mentioned a lot. I’d like the council to remember that you still have the option of stopping or stop now.
Making a loop through the business district south of 21st South if that’s necessary to turn it around and serving that
area. That will keep the streetcar within three to six blocks of pretty much anywhere in central Sugar House. That
includes Westminster. Lastly I’d like to point out that if we’re going to call this a streetcar it probably aught to look
like a streetcar and not a tracks train. I think that would contribute to the acceptability and the quality of life issues
that a lot of people who live in Sugar House to experience. Thank you.
I need to put these a petition. That’s over 200 signatures against it on the 21st South corridor. The proposal that you
guys drew I don’t think that you’ve ever thought about going up Citizen Avenue. Then the south side of the park to
17th. That would relieve access you would be able to go up between he freeway and the golf course to the mouth of
Parley’s canyon. Also it would give access to the park and through the business district there on Simpson Avenue. I
don’t know if you’ve ever thought of that, but I mean that’s an alternative to 21st South and 11th East both all right?
If you can’t do it – I don’t see – on 11th east you’re going to lose maybe 40 trees or something like that to the
expansion of the tracks line down that corridor. Up 21st South you get one of the fifth busiest intersections at 21st
South and 13th East in the city. Then it’s just – it doesn’t make sense to expand down 11th East and lose all the
businesses that will go out of business because of this. Basically if you want the Highland High School to kids to go
they can walk one block the other way and get on it, but that makes sense if you want to expand into Parley’s Canyon
and get there the easiest way is up the south side of the park between the freeway and the park all the way up. Then
if you need to turn left you can go up 23red East which is a wider street or you can come back down Foothill
Boulevard. That’s an alternative to your two different processes. Thank you.
My name is John Thorpe and I’ve lived on 11th East for almost 40 years. When we first moved there the street was
fairly quiet and it was fairly easy to get in and out of our driveway. Now you have to wait for four five or ten minutes
to get out of your own driveway. I wonder what this trolley is going to do to that congestion there. I can’t see it
getting better by adding a trolley. I’m also concerned about property value and of course the parking. Especially it
would just be a lot more activity on the street which would detract from the residential area. So I am opposed to the
trolley and that’s all I have to say. Thank you.
Laurie Bryant
Joe Mandel
Tyler Christianson
Todd Olsen
Mr. Mayor, council members I’ve lived in the Sugar House area – can you hear me now? Okay. I’ve lived in the Sugar
House area for 13 years. I had my choice of places to move to when I came from Wyoming and I chose this
neighborhood. I’m opposed to the 11th Street east route for the Sugar House streetcar my concern is that the 11th
East route like the bike routes has benefits that fall disproportionately on elite groups while all of us pay for it’s
benefits fall primarily on people who have the time to take mass transit. It takes longer to take the streetcar than to
drive a short errand. It costs more money. I can drive to the Post Office in about three minutes in a car that gets 32
miles per gallon in the city. I’m not going to buy a transit fair. The benefits fall proportionately on people who are able
bodied young and capable of riding bikes, walking some distance and carrying an armload of packages. I’m not old,
but I can’t do all the that. The last time I went to my box at the Post Office where I go about three times and no one’s
mentioned the Post Office in the traffic that has to go in and out of the Post Office. What are you going to do about
that? The last time I went to the Post Office to pick up a parcel it was my son’s Mac desktop with the 27 inch monitor.
I’m not carrying that on the streetcar and I don’t know anybody who would. (Timer beep)
Hello I’m Joel Mandel and I’m a part owner of a business up on 21st and active member of the 21st business district. I
feel – I’m an advocate of the streetcar let me tell you first off. But I feel that 21st proposed line would benefit the
21st21st business district better than going down 11th East. Being a business owner I know I would not want my
street ripped up and the accessibility to my business being taken away from me for however long because I know I’d
probably go under. That’s pretty much all I have to say.
Good evening. I’ve lived in the impacted area my whole life. First 21st and 21st now 17th and 17th. This is a multigenerational decision as you know and we’ve got to get the big picture right as a community. That’s our greatest
challenge I think. If we get it right this can become like the Highline Trail in New York revitalizing a very interesting
area. If we get it wrong we’ll create pockets of light. Listening to the remarks of the people I’d just like to propose
some questions. One has been posed off to what is the master plan? The second question which I’d like to pose is
would we able to achieve pricing parity for families in terms of motivating them to use the streetcar versus driving?
Next question is should or could it be integrated with the draw at all? That’s one I haven’t heard discussed. I don’t
know if that’s a possibility or feasibility integrated more with the draw. Next question that comes to my mind is could
it ever go under 13th to address some of the concern of the community in having to go along 21st? Then the other
question is could it ever go along the north edge of Sugar House Park? Again, trying to reach sort of a compromise
allowing to address some of the concerns of the community. Then the other question I have is a long term goal for
this to be a circulating group or a point to point? You know we look at other communities we’ve seen success of a
circulating loop. We’ve also seen success of point to point and I’d love to hear more dialogue on that point as long
term do we see that as being more of a circulating or a point to point. Then my gut reaction though is that having
lived there my whole life it makes complete to extend it a minimum to 13th and then to do further exploratory
research beyond that. Thank you.
Good evening council. My name is Todd Olsen. I’m a property owner and business owner in Sugar House area. I’ve
reviewed both proposals. I like the East proposal it goes up to Sugar House Park, Highland High School the potential
development and hopefully eventually Foothill. I like the north line how it goes to Westminster the different
neighborhoods and eventually to tracks to the University of Utah and downtown. So really I think we should both.
Really I’m here to support the streetcar. I’ve been to Portland I’ve seen the benefits first hand. The resident’s benefit.
Business owners benefit. Property developer benefit. All benefit and I know Sugar House and Salt Lake City is going to
benefit. I’m excited to see the streetcar come to Sugar House and beyond. I understand growth is a painful process
change is difficult, but the streetcar is a good thing and is a benefit to the community. The most important thing I
think is a decision does need to be made and it does need to be moved on beyond Sugar House. So I look forward to
seeing your decision and hopefully moving the streetcar to Highland High would be the next thing. Thank you.
Raquel Ramon
Steven Rosenberg
Randy Baker
Claudia Johnson
Good evening. I just think we should start with maybe a subway. We can just take it off the street all together and we
can handle this problem. Not really obviously. I grew up in Sugar House and I also have two jobs ironically are both on
11th East. I’m also a patron of Boxing Is For Girls as well as an employee there. I’d like to make a brief testimonial
about Boxing Is For Girls and the 11th East area and the second home that’s it’s become to me. While I can’t amuse
you with the juicy details. Believe me when I say that the people I’ve met there have transformed my life for the
better. They have heartfelt concern for each other and have flocked to support the community the 11th East area
Boxing Is For Girls. Residents and patrons alike and I’d like to share briefly a sample of what they have help create in
that area and it’s titled Beacon. Centered in an attitude of blessings we become automatic miracle workers. People
feel up lifted and energized along with us. Subconsciously corrected and healed in our presence. A palpable more
positive atmosphere prevails. When we reach for the highest within ourselves people around us feel called to their
highest and that is the beacon which every sole is looking for. I would hate to see the people miss the opportunity to
transform their lives the way that I have because the construction of a streetcar on 1100th East would compromise
that. I have a few concerns. A lot of them have already been mentioned so I won’t reiterate, but briefly it’s very
narrow and congested. The overflow of traffic into the residential areas obviously those people will not be please with
the parking and traffic that would be diverted to them. The construction period 11th East being a one lane road for
the next two to five years. How are these local businesses going to thrive? Once again parking during the construction
phase it’s already a mess it’s already difficult to find. Are we going to cut into the sidewalks and yards I don’t know
what the details of that are, but I would just ask that you take all of these things into consideration. (Time beep
Mayor Becker and City Council thanks for this opportunity to just share my support for the streetcar idea. For many in
the public who don’t know there was an urban streetcar along the Jordan in Salt Lake and now right of way over a
hundred years ago. I think it was visionary then. I think it’s unfortunate that was ever stopped, but I think we need to
do it. I think the density coming to Sugar House is going to make us wish it was already there. As the father of a child
with asthma breathing the air here in the winter we have think beyond the car. So those are my two cents. Thank you.
I’m Randy Baker I live at 1109 Harvard Avenue. As a point of reference on the corner of 11th East and 1100th South
and Red Butte Creek goes through my back yard. I have a new back yard thanks to Chevron that are very responsible.
I’m here to say I oppose the 11th East extension for the reasons that many people have said. I’d just like to say one
thing with regard to the process. Please listen to the public. You’re public servants and you represent us. I appreciate
the opportunity of giving input this evening. If people say no they do not want a streetcar on 11th East please listen to
the people. Thank you.
I am Claudia Johnson. I am a long time resident of the Sugar House area in fact my whole life. I’ve had two houses and
I grew up in the area. I’ve watched the community 11th East used to be two lanes going into Sugar House and two
lanes going out of Sugar House. I’ve watched the modernization where it was cut down to only one lane and more
traffic. I’ve watched 13th East doing the exact same thing two lanes in two lanes out now it’s one lane and it’s more
traffic. I do not want to see any kind of changes in the Sugar House area. I like change. I’m not opposed to change, but
I have also grown up where we used to walk to Sugar House. We used to walk to the JC Penney’s and all the other
merchant stores that are up in the same areas that right now are there but different stores in a different
configuration. So nothing’s change except people are less likely to walk. There’s no reason why we have to promote
those students for the U.S. Minister bus 17 goes from tracks all the way up to the university. It hits Salt Lake
Community and Westminster and the University of Utah. I am opposed to the fact that the bus system – what will
happen to 213? Does that mean there will no longer a 213 at all? So why not just increase the frequency which it used
to be every 12 minutes? Then it was changed every 15 minutes. Then it was every 20 minutes and now buses run only
Sean Stringham
Alita Cummings
Matt Christianson
Let’s see if I can avoid being a little redundant. First of all I appreciate the notices that were given out for this meeting.
I personally did not know that there was any kind of a discussion regarding a spur going up 21st South until I received
the notices and Soren’s letter. Now Soren’s letter was a great letter, but because it was so long it took me until
Sunday night to read through it. So I don’t know how many people in the neighborhood are really aware that this is
being proposed. I know that a lot of people are making a lot out of the straw holes that have occurred in community
council meetings. I really don’t think the residents of 21st South have any notice that there’s actually discussion of
that idea. I’ve been affected by the discussions tonight because I initially came in I though well the thing to do is to
avoid having 21st South so lets push it to 11th East. I think a lot of these people are trying to pursue 21st South. What
I have really been convinced about tonight from listening to the comments is that’s imperative that we come up with
a master plan. I don’t have any problem with Phase One. I think Phase One’s a great idea, but let’s come ups with a
master plan. Let’s have the community have notice. Lets have the community have discussion about it. So that people
can discuss and talk about the idea of works as a master plan of what works best. I’d like to encourage you to do that.
Now two last things. I’m a parent of kids who go to Highland High. The last thing I want to see is my kids try and not
hit a streetcar with our kid’s car. I’ve already fixed about three times in the last few years and I will like to avoid
another collision. The other thing is you may not know that because Rosland Heights was shut down about a decade
we have hundreds of children who cross 21st South to get to Dilworth Elementary to every morning, every evening
going to from school. (Timer beep) So please consider that thank you.
Well I expected to be the only senior citizen here speaking, but somebody beat me to that. I do want you to
encourage you to remember the seniors. I mean senior I have lived in the Sugar House area for 82 years. (Applause)
And we had a business in the Sugar House area for many years. So I know both sides of it and it was on 11th East. I
would not want the streetcar on 11th East. Even though I live very close to 11th East, but senior citizens who need
these don’t do well with a streetcar. It isn’t our kind of transportation. We need to drive and in order to do that we
need parking and we need streets that are not terribly congested. I avoid 13th East especially at certain hours you
don’t get any place. I also go to the gym in Sugar House. Today I took an informal survey. I didn’t find anybody in favor
of the 11th East corridor. These people come all over the valley so they don’t think that’s a good idea. Several said
that a streetcar should go into Sugar House and turn around and go back down. That it could stop at 10th East or stop
at Hidden something park and then turn around and go back down. At least for now and that’s what they definitely
favor. I sympathize with the (Timer beep)
Good evening everyone. I have seen her at the gym and she can lift (laughter) so you need to listen to her. I want to
start off by – I expected to come here with you guys on your iPhones , and maybe perhaps looking at playing Solitaire
and things like that. I’ve never been to one of these and I’m terribly impressed. I’m glad that I’m not seeing that so
thank you. I want to start off by reading a text that I sent my next door neighbor. For reference I live on 21st South
directly on 21st South about 19th East. Of course our you going to the City Council meeting tonight to talk about the
train line that may end up in front of our houses? Oh when is that? Tonight at seven. No I won’t be able to make it I
have a Cub Pack meeting, but I’m interested to know what’s discussed. He didn’t even know about it. I didn’t know
about it myself until I received both these letters. I’m glad to have received so thank you for sending them and thank
you for this public forum. Can I just propose one thing? And I’m against it for the record. I’m against 11th East I’m
against 21st. Can we just buy or rent a trolley line a car? Lets just rent one or buy one try it out for year. I’ll put the
first $100 dollars into it I really will and I’m not saying this jokingly. Can we just rent one and count the dollars that
we can actually in from this thing? I’m affected by it our property value is. I don’t want to speak selfishly because this
is a community decision, but can we at least see what revenue this can even generate? I really think that that’s one
approach that we can do before we tear up our infrastructure before we commit to millions and millions of dollars in
debt. Lastly I rode the bus for the last two and a half years. If you count the number of people that ride the bus after
11th East going East on 21st South there’s no one in it. Everyone gets off by then. So Phase One I think is perfect it
suits the need, but when you take that bus line go ask the bus drivers ask them how many people are really riding that
bus east and west? (Timer beep) Thanks for you time.
Kelly Marinen
jovesis Beck
Lauren Colby
Christy Brown
Kelly Marinen Hillcrest. I love the idea of streetcars being used to connect Salt Lake City with itself. Cleaner air, better
public transportation a move in the right direction. I kept thinking before is this debate about making it easier for the
most people to get around? Or is it more about economic development for business? Obviously it’s both. I wonder if
one is more important to the streetcar’s survival or success at this early stage I don’t know. I certainly want to see it
succeed and I appreciate my councilman’s involvement. I understand it’s just one leg and more are planned. I’m
hoping whatever direction is chosen first doesn’t mean it will never go in the other direction too. If there is potential
money available now if we move quickly I think we should go for it. I wish the north option was going just a little
further. If the cars are going through established neighborhoods I wish they were more retro looking. Like for example
if they were going a future historic district local historic district I think that would be cool. I personally like the idea of
people in district six some day riding it to the Peace Gardens and visiting west side restaurants hoping they’ll get out
of their cars and start embracing the Mayor’s complete streets philosophy. So that maybe before I’m too old I’ll be
able to safely ride my bicycle to and from my own post office instead of having to go into Sugar House. I want what
makes the most sense for the whole city wanting as many as possible to be able to benefit from the streetcars.
Wanting it to succeed wishing we already had it fully planned out and completed thanks.
Mr. Mayor City Council good morning. My name is Joran Beck and I’m a resident of Sugar House community as well as
a Westminster College student. So those who say that Westminster students should whole-heartedly support the
streetcar on 11th East. We are here to not just no to it. As well as many more people who were unable to make it
tonight. I’m speaking on behalf of these girls tonight as well as on mine.
Hi I got a letter thank you. This is the first time I got a letter from you guys. I live in the Brickyard of Sugar House just
inside Salt Lake City 3117 Lincoln street. I personally don’t understand fully why we need to take the trolley all the
way up to 11th East and on to 9th and 9th. The Sugar House trolley 9th and 9th is not Sugar House. There’s not very
much support for it either. I personally would like to see it go down to the Brickyard that’s near where I live and I
think that it would better benefit the community by going to that shopping center. It would serve two shopping
centers in the Sugar House neighborhood. Also I don’t understand why we’re in my opinion jumping the gun. We’re
already looking to expand the network and we haven’t even opened the trolley that we have. There’s only one rail line
on that trolley that isn’t opened yet. In my opinion we should add a second line after it’s opened to see how it’s
working. If it’s working add the second line and then talked – start talking about how to expand this throughout the
neighborhood of Sugar House not 9th and 9th. If 9th and 9th wants one 9th and 9th can have one, but if the trolley is
going to 9th and 9th then it’s no Sugar House trolley it’s 9th and 9th trolley and this is Sugar House. So thank you.
My husband and I a restoring 1889 Victorian on the corner of 10th East and Garfield Avenue which is 1850 South. We
have two young children. We are concerned at first that our love for old houses may not jive with our needs for a safe
family friendly neighborhood. But we’ve been thrilled with our wonderful neighbors and local friends and have seen a
minimal amount of crime. One challenge we did not anticipate was the every increasing traffic on 10th East. We’ve
witnessed many close calls at the intersection of 10the East and Garfield and three actual collisions. One of which
resulted in the car landing in our front yard where our children play. A concerned neighbor whose pre-teen son walks
along 10the East to the skateboard park almost daily was successful in getting the yield signs changed to stop signs at
the 10th East intersections. This has resulted in some improvement. I’ve been very concerned about the increase in
traffic to 200 condos I heard it was 200 not sure of the number going up at 21st and Highland will surely bring into the
neighborhood. When I heard about the streetcar potentially running down 1100th East I figured we were doomed. As
it seems certain that impatient drivers will quickly find the 10th East as a faster and more peaceful option. Right now
10th East is a haven for pedestrians, bikers and permanent residents of the neighborhood who want to keep a
peaceful safe neighborhood feel. So I’m concerned about the ripple effect of a streetcar running 11th East. I also just
wanted to second the idea that someone mentioned early on about a rubber tire streetcar. I mean that was kind of
met with laughs maybe it would only be a temporary solution until there’s a master plan. We moved here from old
town Park City and that is what they have there a bus that’s made to look exactly like a streetcar (Time Beep) which is
wildly successful. Thank you.
Ryan Mcewin
Dan Washburn
I want to thank everyone for this process. Mayor thank you for your time. I’ve been taking notes throughout the night.
I came totally uneducated by any side that was going presented. It’s obvious what is happening as the public process. I
just hope that the public is part of the process and we’re truly paying attention to what we need to have. We all link
new shiny toys. I think the street sweeper outside is cool, but it’s kind of smoke and mirrors I think to a process that’s
a bigger process than we are willing to admit today. I want to reflect on a few words of the night quaint, quiet,
damage, uniformed, short sited, functionality, year round and preserve. Then the concept of a streetcar. Lets not
decorate it. It’s a train its just no necessarily advertised as a train. Okay how many people have died on the UTA tracks
since it’s been it in this. All of it’s precautions and everything people have been mowed down and operators are still in
psychological rehab for killing people by them stepping in front of the train. So that’s another problem I see in this.
The local foot traffic the lady with the book store we can take a look at local foot traffic McIntosh moved to the
downtown rising store. Their sales plummeted. Now they’re fashion places and selling through the roof. No body
wants to go to the new ECMI Center so I don’t think it was downtown rising. I think it was downtown floating and
possibly start to sink. So I want to make sure that that’s clear. The Sugar House business district connecting it to the
Foothill density makes a lot more sense than trying to have like a 711 stop or the Utah Aids Center stop. Not only that
continuing north how are you going to join it on 4th South? Drop it down to 9th East where there’s already plenty of
transit plenty of traffic. It doesn’t make any sense to try and bend it around that corner on 4th South and try and
make that work as oppose to connecting it to a very dense population right there at the foot of Parley’s Canyon and
sending it north on Foothill to get rid of the parking lot effect that takes (Time beep) the University of Utah district.
I thank you for the opportunity to be here. I represent the Dodo restaurant and right now I can say whether you go on
11th or 21st whoever owns a business in the area is planning on a two year vacation or losing hundreds of thousands
of dollars because that’s what’s going to happen. I think that 21 and 21 business owners we’re going to be hurt. Then
if it goes up 21st or it goes down 11th it doesn’t matter what direction we go it’s going to kill all the businesses unless
we all have some fat pockets and want to lose a lot of money because it’s the only choice that we’re being given here.
The only reason for a choice here is for us to make a choice. Our choice really should be not to choose. Either one of
these decisions you know the home owners and I don’t know where – what studies you’ve done with Portland or San
Francisco or New York or wherever these studies are coming out of, but I can see a free ride of anybody coming to our
Sugar House neighborhood until whenever the tracks stop at eleven o’clock. I don’t know if crime rates have
increased with outsiders coming in and if I have a home in that area, I have a business in that area and the foot traffic
keeps coming in and coming in from the city. More and more graffiti and more and more crime is happening in our
areas. We don’t need to spend the money. I don’t know why we’re forcing this tracks to come into our area. We don’t
need it. We’re thriving, we’re growing, and we’re expanding without it. The bus system, bikes, people walking, people
parking outside of Sugar House and walking in. We’re growing and thriving as businesses without this and to push this
down our throats you’re going to kill all of us small businesses. Then the developers are going to come in (Timer beep)
with trying to take it away from us. So don’t make a choice.
Brent
Valeria Klein
Helen Peters
You got it quite right actually so congratulations most people don’t. Thanks for your time. A resident that’s lived 11
years in the neighborhood of this streetcar will bisect. I think it’s important that I speak for myself, my family and my
neighborhood. I’ve spoken to a lot of people in the neighborhood who share my opinion obviously I don’t represent
everyone but I think it’s a pretty good majority that I do represent. I’m not sure that I understand what the plan is to
make a streetcar work on such a narrow thorough fair as 11th East. My concern is that whether the street will be
widened or left alone whatever happens the result will be the same. A horribly clogged intersection and 21st and
11th. Backups north south east and west on these arteries. Significantly greater idling of vehicles and a less inviting
environment for pedestrian traffic. Further congest on 11th East will only force more traffic onto an already overburdened 9th East and presumably 13th East. Not to mention right onto 10th East like a good neighbor of mind just
explained to us. This is problematic for a family like mine with small children for two reason. The congestion is going
to lead to more pollution. A pollution which by the way can literally be wiped from the surfaces of our houses within
just 24 hours of them being cleaned. This is the air our children are forced to breathe. Don’t underestimate the closer
you are to 9th East the worse it is. We can’t be putting more people onto 9th East and more traffic there. It’s just not
going to work with our kids. The other reason is traffic along 9th East is already a major problem more or less
unregulated. Yes rush hour traffic’s going to slow down and contribute to more micro local pollution. Outside of rush
hour if traffic is forced to 9th East it simply means higher volumes of speeding traffic. This is problematic for families
like mine with small children. The traffic not only speeds along through the neighborhood. Typically moving at a high
velocity and not paying attention to children and other pedestrian traffic. (Time beep) Thanks.
Good evening Mr. Mayor, City Council I appreciate your time and the efforts of the community as well. When I moved
to – first of all I want to address the people that had been to Portland where I was raised about the streetcar. I just
wanted to inform you about the differences in the weather there. It’s just a very different area. After there and
attending college her in Utah I moved to New York City because I love to walk love to walk. I’ve been a home owner
on Yale Avenue right above 9th East on about I don’t know 12 or 13 years. I love to walk in the neighborhood. My only
concern is the noise level because the windows are open in the summer time and I don’t like to use the air
conditioning and things. A fine breeze in the evenings and things and the trees that are going to be lost in Sugar Hills
Park because the streets act as such a sound barrier. I heard this evening that we might be having more trees lost on
11th East. I was there I’m very excite about the trolley line that has been laid so far. On the 4th of July people can
come and fan out. Get off walk through the businesses. People don’t need to be coddled and dropped at the
Universities. I didn’t even have a car when I went to the university myself. But dropped at door of their school at the
door of the parks and things like that. Walking a little in New York City which is as Salt Lake becomes more and more
dense we walk in New York City. It’s not like a big door to door service and that is what keeps the New Yorkers
healthy and strong. I would like to see that encouraged here in Utah. The workability aspect of the Sugar House from
9th and 9th area which I live closer I can easily walk and enjoy a walk to Sugar House area. It’s a little bit far for me to
walk up to go Red Navo or up to 21st and 21st or to Pearcot or something. So that would be a little bit more difficult
for me but to be able to walk where (Time beep) walk on 11th East just having that walk able aspect a quiet peaceful
atmosphere is important. Thank you very much.
I’m Helen Peters I’m Chair of the friends of the Sugar House and south Salt Lake streetcar. Our mission, our vision is to
help the corridor the streetcar corridor become a premier public space. We’ve been doing that for approximately two
years at this point. We had a meeting and discussion amongst ourselves as to the alternative that we would like to put
forward supporting. At this point we participated in the alternatives analysis and the public hearings. Commenting
upon the alternatives presented. Tonight we are interested in putting forth the 11th East as the alternative that we
support. Phases IIA, IIB and IIC. We feel like that the 11th East gives the option to connect the Sugar House area with
the downtown area and places in between. Assuming that there was master plan to make that connection. Because of
the recent revival the economic revival in Sugar House that this would help support that effort by connecting two
pieces. The Sugar House business district along with the Salt Lake City core business district. The 21st South option for
us was more of a regional corridor and needed a different sort of treatment a different sort of piece of equipment to
service those areas. We felt that was more of a regional whereas the 11th East and the streetcar was more of a local
community sort of thing. Thank you.
Lori Duncomb
Katie Wagner
David Campbell
Laura Duncomb. I live on 17th East 2317 South. So I would be impacted. I would like to not maybe go over everything
that you’ve already heard but a couple of true ups. I’ve heard people visit Portland. I lived in Portland. I lived by one of
these and wasn’t the glorious pretty party dress that if you go visit it that you see. It increased the theft in the area
having that transit line coming out. So the rural areas became a target. It was noisy and it was a problem. The thing
that I would really like to hit is what I have not seen in this proposal is the economic study. Where is the economics?
Whose going to pay for it? How will it be sustained? What is the long tern sustained plan? Where are these dollars
coming from? I’m already experiencing the overflow of traffic where I live. My noise level has gone up. I can’t sit on
my front porch any more and talk because of the noise and congestion. If we’re going to do something I really want to
understand economics behind it. I want to know from all the things that we’ve done on helping the bicycle paths.
Where has been to go back and re-evaluation to ensure that those paths are being used to their full extents. On this
issue of pollution if you read the information that was the idle time went up three times for the vehicle traffic. So
three times is going to put out quite a bit more emissions just from the standby and idling. Thanks
Absolutely, my name’s Katie Wagner. I want to thank you for listening. I really can’t speak for anybody else’s
perspective but I can tell how this would change my behavior personally. I live at 1209 East Gilmore. One of the things
that really struck out to me when the streetcar proposal was going in was wow it’s going to be a nice feeling to jump
on the streetcar. Go down to Sugar House area grab a couple drinks and not have to worry about hitting road back
home. I definitely think that would change my behavior, but also allow me to take the streetcar to work. It would
allow me to take the streetcar down to Whole Foods to purchase groceries and come back. The businesses that I
frequent in Sugar House would actually probably increase. My frequency of visiting them especially around Christmas
time I do avoid Sugar House around Christmas time because it’s very crazy there and difficult to find a parking spot.
From my perspective that’s how it would change my behavior. Thanks for your time.
Thank you for the opportunity to speak to the city council. I appreciate your efforts what we see of politicians in the
media you get more than your share. Anyway in reference to my family. We’ve grown up in the Sugar House area for
over 120 years. A great aunt who passed away not too long ago at her funeral it was mentioned that she saw tracks
twice. John Pegry lived behind me as I was growing up. I remember doing a paper in high school about mass transit. I
lived in Iceland a few years of my life. I saw truly an incredible mass transit system that the buses were powered by –
I’m not a science person so. It was renewable energy. I’ve also sent he electric trains and electric buses in Europe. The
one thing that kind of gets me here. If we’re doing something without a master plan that’s kind of like already prior
aimed. That’s when I took hunter safety at Dillworth Elementary. I don’t own a gun it’s just for medical work. Okay
and it seems that what’s going to happen is when the traffic fills up there’s the path of least resistance. I’m a business
owner and I’m also a property owner. I see what happens in the ally ways especially on a Friday afternoon. Cars go
zipping through the ally ways I don’t see a lot of the overflow has been addressed. The other thing that kind of scares
me here is we talked about the city beautification process. I’m a graduate or the University of Utah as well as
Westminster College. The lessons from the past I saw what happened to Main Street. I worked at Sam Wellers my
senior year in college. First their was the beautification and then they put tracks down. (Time beep) The one thing I do
know is the
Laura Braise
Christian Johnson
Mark Williamson
Yeah thank you. I’m a trustee on the Sugar House Community Council. I would like to use this as a lesson for we need
a better PR department. I have been astonished at the community council meetings how uninformed people are and
tonight there is still people uninformed. They’re saying lots of things. It’s misinformation that’s really disheartening to
me. KUTV came out and did a story on the protestors and they completely had the Phase I alignment incorrect. That’s
where a lot of people are getting their information. So regardless of the route that is chosen. I think that it is so
important that we spend money on television commercials because people are not getting the information out.
Finally at the last stage they did, but very disheartening to me. I prefer the 1100th East route. We started Sugar House
Art Walk about a year and a half ago. We put artists in local business and I am typically at Herbana yet I have a storage
area at Rockwood art studios where I did have a photography studio. It took less time for me to take my large
photographs along with my big dog that I was walking and walk for Rockridge Urbana twice much less time than
drives. The congestion on 1100th East is ridiculous and in my opinion the streetcar would diminish that I hope. I have
not heard anyone talk Sugar House Crossing or 2100 Sugar House tonight. So there’s 40 to 50 thousand square feet of
retail going in on the corner there plus 200 apartments. A lot of the retail’s already opened on McClellan to 2100th
South. There’s no parking available there any more. So people are going to be forced to walk now which is great. I
hope eventually the streetcar goes in both directions, but I think people are kind of being short sided about what’s
going to happen on their street. (Timer Beep) Thank you.
Hello my name’s Christian Johnson. I’m a small business owner multi-property owner in the Sugar House area. I’ve sat
here all night patiently along with everybody else thank you for your time. I just wanted to recap quickly we had
approximately 44 against and 16 for's for the streetcar down 11th. Between the petitions that were submitted that
brings a total of 1809 people that voted either in the written or spoken form against the streetcar. I grew up in the
San Francisco Bay area. I have taken public transportation most of my adult life until I moved here. While I miss the
public transportation I like the walking environment. This is something that Sugar House provides. There is very few
walking communities in our city. I would prefer to see a train run down 7th East. Thank you
Just real quick I’m Mark Williamson. I’m with Sterling Furniture and we sent you guys a copy of the petition that we
had. We Sterling Furniture has been in Sugar House since the ‘40s. Basically Sugar House was a second grow up place
for me as a family corporation. But we do have over 30 apartments and family residential in our area there as well as
11 businesses. I would like to reiterate on the economics I don’t think that has really spelled out. We are opposed to
it. The businesses that lease from us and most of the residents are opposed to it on 11th East.
As of May 3, 2013 at 12:00 noon these comments include:
emails, letters, voice messages, and written comment cards
from the April 23 meeting
name
comments
Ellie Goldberg
I am trying to keep an open mind about the
changes proposed for the area around 1100
East and 2100 South. The intersection is
already congested, especially when heading
north on Highland. Reducing the number of
lanes will make matters worse. Moreover,
channeling the traffic to 1300 East makes
little sense since that intersection is also
already very congested. Consequently, the
idea of adding a street car route north-south
on 1100 East to 1700 South will likely make
matters worse as backed-up lines of traffic
will have to wait even longer as the train
passes through. Finally, short spurs like the
one proposed along 1100 East are unlikely to
garner much use. People can walk from 2100
South to 1700 South in the time it takes to
wait for a train.
My vote is to extend the streetcar line to
1700 South!
I would prefer that the line run along 1100 E
to 1700 S as planned. I will certainly utilize
the transportation!
Clint Perschon
I think the proposed extension along 1100 E
and 1700 South makes the most sense for
traffic prevention in Sugarhouse. Thank you.
Robert mayer
Travis Slagle
David Kelly
Rhea Lisonbee
Steven Seftel
Lauren Johnson
I think that the streetcar should start by
going up 1100 east towards Westminster
and the University of Utah. This would then
tie it in with trax on 400 South and make it a
much more usable transportation option. I
also think that the next step after that is to
run trax up Parley's Canyon to lessen the
amount of traffic and pollution on I-80 and
truly make SLC the easiest place for a ski
vacation. Please look at the big picture. I am
also vehemently opposed to Ski Link. So
please address this issue when you have
time.
It needs to go east at least to Sugarhouse
Park. Then south to 2700 up to Imperial and
comtinue to 33 rd to Brickyard at Highland,
then on to Sugarhouse. Brickyard has a lot of
space for a turn around too.if you really
want to make it viable for people in the
neighborhoods this is the area we all
circulate around.
Concerning expanded routing for the
Sugarhouse streetcar, I would like to see it
keep the original recommended plan of
turning North on 1100 East and terminating
at 1700 South. This would provide usable
service to Westminster College. I would
hope it would not create traffic delays,
though.
I am a student at Westminster College, and I
know that if the Streetcar goes by 11th and
17th, Westminster Students would use it
regularly. Right now, we are far from any
Trax line, and it makes a lot of sense to
connect us in with the train system,
especially since we have a lot of commuter
students.
Judi Short
from 2100 south to Sugarmont. Please
approve this, we need this to be a nice,
welcoming entrance to the business district.
Right now, it is pretty scary once the sun
sets. Since this streetcar line will open in the
dead of winter, the lights need to happen.
The City should also spend some time
making sure the Business District is "tuned
up" for the arrival of the streetcar. Things
look pretty shabby right now, and I realize a
lot of construction is going on, but perhaps
the crosswalks could be painted, parking
space could be painted, see if all signs are in
place (the one at McClelland and 2100 south
was laying in the street last week) graffiti is
gone, public things that need paint, like fire
hydrants, bus stops, the silly concrete
couches, etc. Thanks! -- Judi Short
801.487.7387 h 801.864.7387 c
Patricia Franz
Hello, I live at 1776 Hollywood Ave, just 2
blocks north from 2100 South. I just received
a flyer showing the proposed expansion of
the Sugar House Streetcar. I vote NO for
adding a 2100 South (starting at 1100 East
and heading east). My reasons are as
follows: 1. The impact this will have on the
neighborhood alone will be horribly
detrimental to home owners in that area.
Our homes will instantly decrease in value.
2. What about the cost to widen the street
from 1700 E and up towards Parleys. (Our
tax dollars at work? Cut the elderly or school
funding?) 3. How many homes will be
affected along 2100 South in that stretch? If
you have surveyed the area you know 2100
South goes from quite wide, beginning at
1300 E, but at 1700 E it becomes a one lane
road. 4. Are houses going to be condemned
so they can be sold at a lower price? 5. Are
you going to cut off a major portion of the
homeowners front property to make room
for Trax and car traffic? These are just a few
of the concerns many of us in this area have
regarding your proposal.. Also, how do I get
a say in what goes on at Salt Lake City
Council? I am very interested having a voice
in what happens in my area. Thank you,
Scott Christensen
These street cars/light rails aren't ecofriendly/green. There is a coal fired power
plant belching out tons of pollution to
provide electricity for them. People who
think they are have deceived themselves by
saying because the pollution isn't in my
neighborhood it clean. The street cars
themselves give off noise pollution and the
vibrations affect all the buildings and
structures around them. Why do you think
the West side has worked so hard to get rail
lines out of our neighborhoods. Why do you
think they shut down the line that used to be
there. 700 East used to have lots of street
cars along it from the Trolley Square turn
around. Think people, why did they remove
this transportation option? If you go ahead
with this, good luck.
Mamta Chadhari
I am a Westminster College Alum and am
very interested in where the streetcar route
will be. I think that it is very important for
Westminster students to be able to use the
streetcar. Westminster has a clean air
initiative and encourages students to use
public transit. This would make it easier for
students to do that. I know if this were
available when I attended school, I would
have used it as much as I could. Please allow
the streetcar to take the 1100 East 1700
South route.
Clare Hunter
Irene Erickson
I am opposed to the Sugarhouse Street car
going east up 2100 South. The automobile
traffic is quite heavy and the road needs to
remain four lanes. I do not support trying to
bring more business to the residential area
east of 1600 East. There currently is a
business on the corner of 1800 East and
2100 South and the employees and clients
cause a problem regarding parking on the
residential side streets around the business.
Would prefer for the streetcar to go to the
1700 e on 2100 s instead of the 1100 e
section because this area is way to
conjested. It would be great to have a street
car go to highland high school to sugarhouse
park.
Elaine Brown
City Council Members: Remember these
lyrics from the Don MacLean song: 'They
would not listen, they're not listening still.
Perhaps they never will...' With my apologies
to Charlie Luke for whom I voted and
respect, Kyle LaMalfa, and Carlton
Christensen, who all appear to have some
common sense, I have no use for the rest of
the group, and with that faction and Becker
as Mayor, it is all a lost cause. Like the
Parley's Way Walmart issue, the latter will
do as they please regardless of the will of
the voters. So be it. Please don't contact me
again, and for the record, as far as I am
concerned, Sugar House ends at 1700 East
2100 South, and, I could care less what
happens west of there. I avoid the Sugar
House business district like the plague, and
will continue to do so. As for the streetcar, I
have made my comments anonymously on
Open City Hall, and have no interest in ever
attending any more so-called 'public input'
meetings--been there/done, e.g., Walmart.
Elaine Brown District 6 PS I have tried to
remove myself from all of this type of
communication, so please do not contact me
again.
Alexandra Monjar
Anonymous
Brian Murphy
I want to voice my support for the 11th East
route for the Sugarhouse Streetcar. I was a
student at Westminster College and
commuted via public transportation from
Kaysville, UT for 4 years. While I was able to
commute, it was terribly inconvenient, with
multiple transfers, and it took nearly 4 hours
round trip. If the streetcar were to connect
with Trax via the 11th East route, students
who are in a similar position as I was will
have a much more efficient way of
commuting from both the southern and
northern end of the Wasatch Front. The 11th
East proposal would not only benefit
commuting students of Westminster
College, but students who live near or on
campus especially those without cars.
Students are one of the primary riders of
public transportation and the 11th East line
makes more sense with those riders in mind.
It also makes more sense for promoting
public transit as a means to access local
businesses, restaurants, and bars in the
Sugarhouse neighborhood, and the 9th and
9th neighborhood. I hope that the 11th East
route is chosen for the health of the
community and for the benefit of students in
the area.
An anonymous constituent left a message
regarding the 1100 East option for the
streetcar. The constituent states that 1300
East has become a "nightmare" since it was
reduced to one lane. This has caused people
to use 1100 East as an alternative and made
traffic a mess. She encourages you to not
vote for the 1100 East option.
Would like to streetcar to go through 1100
East.
John Rasumuson
I favor the existing proposal to extend the
streetcar route along 1100 East to 1700
South. The commercial character of 1100
East between 2100 South and 1700 South is
conducive and there is the connection with
the
Westminster
campus
which adds
value.
To the
Sugar House
Community
Council,
I
Bill Cordray
think that the monument plaza should be a
stop on the line. Since I understand that
there would be no need for a turnaround,
there doesn't need to be a closure of the
plaza as a pedestrian mall. Isn't it a small
trolley car, without deep tracks, which
people can easily cross? Apparently, the
driver just goes to the other end of the car
and drives from there without the need for a
turnaround space. Since it is slower than
Trax or even a bus, pedestrian conflicts
would be minimal. My arguments for
choosing an eastbound route up 21st South
versus Northbound on 11th East: Against
11th East: This street is congested with only
one lane each way. You'd have to have stops
on both sides, blocking traffic that is already
slow. Westminster students could just as
easily catch the trolley at 12th East and 21st
South as at 11th East and 17th South. Since
many students reside in apartments such as
the Draw, Irving, and others close to 21st
South, their walking distance to a 12th East
21st So. stop is shorter. For 21st South: this
street is wider and less congested, despite
the long lights at 13th East. It would serve
Westminster College more easily than the
Brain May
Good Afternoon My name is Brian May (not
the guy from Queen). I own the house
located at 1141 East Garfield Ave. I bought
my house for three reasons: LOCATION,
LOCATION, LOCATION. Yes I want you to put
the Street Car on 1100 East. I think it is the
best idea for two reasons. 1. The 1100 East
line would be the best use for street car
route because of how many riders would
ride it on a daily basis. The residents like
myself would leave my car in the garage and
use the streetcar to get from a to b. The
demographic of working class people who
live on 1100 East are like myself would use
the streetcar for a main source
transportation as opposed to the
demographics of the people who live around
2100 South area who see the streetcar as
more of shinny new toy then a
transportation device. The people in my1100
East neighborhood, are young people,
renters and working class people. We would
use the street car daily to connect to the rest
of the valley via the Trax connection line. 2.
MONEY, yes money. I have lived in Utah long
enough to see the positive impact that
putting light rail does to property values. It is
incredible how the 400 South Trax Line has
Aaron Anderson
Hello, I am returning to the beautiful city of
SLC in hopes of one day to become a Planner
for the Utah Transit authority. In regards to
the Sugarhouse Streetcar phase 2, I would
like to propose my idea. If phase 2 could
implement car/streetcar shared lanes for
part of it, ala Portland, then take it North on
1100 E. to 900 S. Leaving room for expansion
with a phase 3, going West on 900 S.
Through the pedestrian/bike friendly
community of 9th & 9th. Proceed past
Liberty park to the 900 S. Trax station,
instantaneously creating a lightrail/streetcar
"loop" for key areas of SLC. Thank you very
much for your time. --Aaron Anderson
Kathleen Rice
Council Members, I do look forward to the
time when the Sugar House Street Car is in
place ... Since you asked for comments, I will
say that it seems like the route (s) that lead
East to the Park, and beyond, would be the
most beneficial. The Sugar House Park was
made more accessible to people without
cars when the traffic light was installed at
15th East, but it is still a chore to get there
without a car. (You try it.) The Street Car
could make a change for the better in that
way!! I know that you say that the 11th East
route is recommended, but I am not clear as
to why. There are already buses, sidewalks,
etc. there and the roadway is rather narrow.
You know more about that, however. Thank
you for your service to our community,
Kathleen Rice 801 581-1559
Sue Watson
Hello, Hasn't SugarHouse been torn up for
long enough? Can't one project get
completed before something else gets torn
up? Are you kidding me? The entire
cornerstone of SugarHouse has been a mess
for the past several years and many small
businesses have been run out to make way
for a big swamp hole which has brought in
no tax payer dollars for the past few years.
Additionally the quaint little businesses near
this corner do not want the trolley car today
or in the future, not to mention the further
disruption. If you are truly making a good
decision, you would hold off until the
existing water issues are resolved in your big
sink hole and you would research the true
reason why Wilmington Avenue, once
holding many small businesses, were
demolished and the land sits vacant (again
not bringing in tax dollars). Why cant the
trolley turn around in the vacant lot (or
parking places on wilmington) vs making a
mess of 2100 so and/or 1100 East? This end
point would be less disruptive and not create
nearly the traffic jams or hurt businesses.
Please don't make any more dumb decisions
just because you have a bunch of money
that is burning a hole in your pocket. Please,
Al Dieffenbach
Dear Council, My name is Al Dieffenbach and
I am a stake holder in the heart of Sugar
House. My property is from 2100 south on
the south to 1100 east on the east and
Hollywood avenue to the north located at
1061 East. On this property is four
businesses and they are: Salt Lake Pizza and
Pasta, Fiddler’s Elbow, Central Point, and
Image Eyes Optical. There also is a large
parking lot that I own as well. As a stake
holder and member of the Sugar House
Merchants Group I was involved with the
initial movement to get the Sugar House Rail
Line built. I sat in on meetings and design
discussions and planning of the line. I was
thrilled to hear it was being built until at the
last Sugar House Merchants meeting where
it was disclosed that a preferred route was
down 1100 east. Sugar House is defined by
the monument and the park and neither is
on this route! 1100 East is congested to
gridlock as it is from 2100 south past the
post office every day! The traffic dept.
changed the lights to be green south bound
or green north bound but not at the same
time. This is fine at 3 AM but not at any
other time when there are more than 5 cars
at the light. My preferred route would be to
Bryce Perkins
I'd like to vehemently oppose any future
expansion of the sugarhouse streetcar
beyond it's current status. I don't see a need,
a probable use by the demographic, nor the
space to lay down more track . Thanks. Bryce
Perkins 2172 Emerson Ave SLC, UT 84108
801-482-8387
Jeannine Young
I would propose continuing the street car
north on 11th east and then when funding
permits perhaps it could drop down to 9th
East on 17 South or 13 South and continue
north to meet up with Trax. It would give an
additional way to go North and South
through the neighborhoods. There are many
local business and local meeting areas that
would benefit from the street car linking
them with surrounding neighborhoods. It
would also promote walking to catch the
streetcar. Jeannine Young Sugar House
resident of 19 years
Rebekah Wells
Greetings! My name is Rebekah Wells. I live
at 1365 East Emerson Ave in Sugar House. I
would like to voice my preference and
opinion on the street car situations. I would
prefer the street car continue up 21st south,
so later it may turn north on 13th east and
eventually connect in with the trax line at
University. I see no benefit in running a car
down 11th. 13th east would connect to
Westminster, East, Rowland and so many
residents. this could be very beneficial to the
community. Thanks for your time, please
consider relocating the street car. Best of
Luck, Rebekah
Katie Maudsley
Tad Solomon
Dear City Council, Thank you for your efforts
to represent the residents of Salt Lake. I
know you have a tough job. I am writing
today because I am concerned about the
difficulty Salt Lake residents face with city
government's permit requirements. I heard
this week of a landscaper who has been
through such a nightmare (the home owner
has as well) attending meetings and trying to
work with the city to get permits to
landscape a yard that he said he doesn't
want to work in Salt Lake anymore because
it is so hard to work with the government
here. I am shocked at how intrusive the
permit process is. If someone wants to
replace his windows, he has to ask the city
for permission to do this. If someone wants
to landscape his yard, he has to ask the city
for permission to do this. As citizens of this
country, we want to feel that our
government is by the people and for the
people--not by Big Brother. I understand that
for certain safety reasons, there may be
some need to check in with home owners-but please help us. There must be some way
that this can be simplified. Please help us so
that all the fight and hassle and expense for
the home owner can be taken into
I like the 1100 east option.
Jan Brittain
From: Jan Brittain
[mailto:wilshirejan@comcast.net] Sent:
Thursday, April 18, 2013 1:15 PM To: City
Council Liaisons; Simonsen, Soren; Luke,
Charlie Subject: Sugar House Streetcar I am
adamantly opposed to extending the Sugar
House Streetcar line north on 11th East. I
think it should continue east to 1300 East
and stop right there around Shopko. To me,
the whole thing is a giant waste of taxpayer
money. We already have bus service that is
too infrequent and too expensive. Instead of
building more, why isn’t the money being
used to make the current system usable?
We’re not Portland. If I wanted to live in
Portland I would. STOP IMPORTING
PORTLAND TO SALT LAKE CITY. We have our
own unique character and we’re a great
city. As is. That said, if the City Council is
determined to extend the Sugar House
Streetcar, I wish they would consider a
streetcar/trolley bus/jitney bus that travels
between Sugar House and Foothill Drive on
2100 South/Parley’s Way. Ideally the
route would go from the streetcar terminal,
past Sugar House Park, up Parley’s Way
to Stringham, then up Stringham to Foothill
Drive, down Foothill Drive to Parley’s
Bob Watson
Jill, The attached voicemail is from Mr. Bob
Watson, owner of Technique Recovering &
Repair located at 2023 South 1100 East. Mr.
Watson is against placing the streetcar along
1100 East. He feels that this would hurt the
many businesses along the 1100 East and
that maybe 900 East or 1300 East are better
options. Mr. Watson (801.484.4419) did not
request a call back.
Christopher Stout
From: Christopher Stout
[mailto:christopher.stout@legal.utah.edu]
Sent: Thursday, April 18, 2013 6:05 PM To:
jill.love@slc.gov Cc: City Council Liaisons
Subject: Sugar House Street Car Ms.
Remington Love, I am writing to express my
strong disapproval of the proposal to extend
the Sugar House Streetcar north up 11th
east to Westminster college. My home is in
that neighborhood, just north of where the
proposed line would end. I am chiefly
concerned for the character of the
neighborhood. As I imagine you are aware,
the light commercial activity at 21st south
and 11th east only extends north for about a
block, at which point the use becomes mixed
residential for the rest of the way to 1700
south. That means that for almost the entire
length of the extension, the streetcar would
be running directly in front of homes.
Further, 11th east is an atypically narrow
street for Salt Lake City. I have not yet been
able to determine whether the proposed
street car would run up the middle of this
already overly crowded road, or whether
buildings would be demolished to make
room for it. Either way, the choice appears
to be between scarring the local community,
Don & Susan Lewon
We would prefer the track line end at the
west end of the mall at Simpson Ave. Have
the turn Around close to Fairmont and the
swimming. Have further transportation by
bus. Don't muck Up Sugarhouse and 21st
South! Sincerely, Don & Susan Lewon
Mladen Maric
Dear Council Members, My name is Mladen
Maric. My family and I have been residents
of the Sugarhouse area for the last 35+
years, first on Bryan Avenue and recently on
1200 East, 1792 South. The Sugarhouse
Council just informed us, that there is a
possibility of extending the streetcar line
from the current end of the line behind the
former Granite Furniture Building. The two
choices presented were to extend the line
North on 1100 East or East on 2100 South. I
am strongly against both choices for
extending the line. The line should end
where it currently ends behind the Granite
Furniture Building. It should not encroach
onto 1100 East nor 2100 South at all. And it
should absolutely NOT come close to the
Monument Plaza. 1100 East is already to
congested as it is. There is no room for any
additional space for the streetcar. The
streetcar in this location would not alleviate
congestion, but would instead increase it.
The street is to narrow and the streetcars
would drastically impact the quality of life
for any of the residents living along that
narrow street. The constant noise and
inability to pull in/out of the driveways
because of the streetcar and the rail tracks
Dave Peterson
Dear City Council Members: Our family
recently purchased property just south of
900 East next to the trolley line now under
construction. We are looking forward to the
move because we have a disabled daughter,
who uses a wheelchair, and now she will be
close to services (i.e. grocery store, library,
post office, church, retail, entertainment,
etc.) and will have easy access to the trolley.
We have been watching with interest, but
without much of an opinion, as to whether
or not phase 2 of the trolley will proceed
north on 1100 East or east to 1300 East (and
maybe beyond). However, my wife
reminded me that if the 1100 East to 1700
South alternative is chosen (even though it
would nice to pick up those Westminster
faculty/students) the hill between 1100 East
and 1300 East, without a trolley, is too steep
for disabled individuals and the elderly who
desire to enjoy Sugar House Park and points
east of 1300 East. Please consider the
disabled and elderly populations in your
decisions. Thank you. Dave Petersen
Darrell Hendriksen
Hello, I want to keep Sugar House a walkable
area. I wish that Monument Plaza remain
walkable- if closing the right had turn lane
will promote more pedestrian activity, then
that is what I want. Thank you, Darrell
Hendriksen -- DH
Don & Susan Lewon
We would prefer the track line end at the
west end of the mall at Simpson Ave. Have
the turn Around close to Fairmont and the
swimming. Have further transportation by
bus. Don't muck Up Sugarhouse and 21st
South! Sincerely, Don & Susan Lewon
Karen Whitlock
Rhiannon Trimn
Søren; This call is from Karen Whitlock who
lives on Ramona Ave. She is opposed to the
streetcar line being on 2100 South as she
feels there is already too much congestion
and a streetcar will only make things worse.
Karen doesn't require a call back, but left her
number (801-467-4486) if you'd like to call.
BRIAN FULLMER Salt Lake City Council Staff
OFFICE of the CITY COUNCIL SALT LAKE CITY
CORPORATION TEL 801-535-7639
Does not want the streetcar to run through
1100 east. Most people who live on 1100
east dont have driveways and usually park
on the street. If these streetcar comes
where would we park? Destroying a
neighborhood for people is unjust and we
are just learning about the streetcar because
of a letter taht was sent out. Thanks,
Rhiannon Trimn
Jan Brittan
I am adamantly opposed to extending the
Sugar House Streetcar line north on 11th
East. I think it should continue east to 1300
East and stop right there around Shopko. To
me, the whole thing is a giant waste of
taxpayer money. We already have bus
service that is too infrequent and too
expensive. Instead of building more, why
isn’t the money being used to make the
current system usable?From: Jan Brittain
[mailto:wilshirejan@comcast.net] Sent:
Thursday, April 18, 2013 1:15 PM To: City
Council Liaisons; Simonsen, Soren; Luke,
Charlie Subject: Sugar House Streetcar I am
adamantly opposed to extending the Sugar
House Streetcar line north on 11th East. I
think it should continue east to 1300 East
and stop right there around Shopko. To me,
the whole thing is a giant waste of taxpayer
money. We already have bus service that is
too infrequent and too expensive. Instead of
building more, why isn’t the money being
used to make the current system usable?
We’re not Portland. If I wanted to live in
Portland I would. STOP IMPORTING
PORTLAND TO SALT LAKE CITY. We have our
own unique character and we’re a great
city. As is. That said, if the City Council is
Bob Watson
Jill, The attached voicemail is from Mr. Bob
Watson, owner of Technique Recovering &
Repair located at 2023 South 1100 East. Mr.
Watson is against placing the streetcar along
1100 East. He feels that this would hurt the
many businesses along the 1100 East and
that maybe 900 East or 1300 East are better
options. Mr. Watson (801.484.4419) did not
request a call back.
Joanne Sindergaurd
From: Patricia Franz
[mailto:Patricia.Franz@slcschools.org] Sent:
Thursday, April 11, 2013 3:48 PM To: Council
Comments Subject: proposal for Sugar
House Streetcar Hello, I live at 1776
Hollywood Ave, just 2 blocks north from
2100 South. I just received a flyer showing
the proposed expansion of the Sugar House
Streetcar. I vote NO for adding a 2100 South
(starting at 1100 East and heading east). My
reasons are as follows: 1. The impact this will
have on the neighborhood alone will be
horribly detrimental to home owners in that
area. Our homes will instantly decrease in
value. 2. What about the cost to widen the
street from 1700 E and up towards Parleys.
(Our tax dollars at work? Cut the elderly or
school funding?) 3. How many homes will be
affected along 2100 South in that stretch? If
you have surveyed the area you know 2100
South goes from quite wide, beginning at
1300 E, but at 1700 E it becomes a one lane
road. 4. Are houses going to be condemned
so they can be sold at a lower price? 5. Are
you going to cut off a major portion of the
homeowners front property to make room
for Trax and car traffic? These are just a few
of the concerns many of us in this area have
Does not want the streetcar to go down
1100 East.
Brett Henderson
I strongly oppose running the street car east
up 2100 S to 1700 E. The street car will have
a negative impact on the residential area
north of 2100 S. The proposed plan to run up
1100 E to Westminster College is a much
better option.
Laura Gray
I strongly object to the 1100 East steetcar
option. That is very crowded corridor already
and too narrow for a line. Get some more
busses and add a bike lane first.
Patricia Franz
Hank Basking
Mike Riordan
unknown
Gary Madrid
Merrill Singuard
laura grey
William Hawkins
I would like to see more public
transportation serving the east-west routes
across the city. There are excellent northsouth options for commuting, but those of
us on the east bench have no real options on
Trax, front runner, etc. A line along 21st
south (and hopefully all the way to foothill
village) would help decrease cross-town car
travel and traffic congestion and open up
Sugarhouse Park (and nearby businesses) to
many more citizens. Future extensions of the
streetcar and/or Trax to the east bench are
sorely needed... aside from servicing the
many commuters who work in Research
Park, there are many other obvious
Trax/Streetcar destinations on the east
bench for all residents, including the zoo,
This Is The Place Park, and the UT Natural
History Museum.
No to extend either way. 21st South would
be great.
Doesnt understand why we need a streetcar
when we have buses that work just fine?
No to 1100 East doesnt need to be in a
residential area.
Unknown
Ms. Rochlyn
No to 1100 East needs to go up 21st south.
No to streetcar on 1100 East
Please to do expand the streetcar.
In favor of the trax line from sugarhouse on
East.
against the 1100 East for streetcar
Becka
Wants the streetcar to go down 2100 South
Lane Call
Is in favor of the 2100 south streetcar only
unknown
Is in favor of the 2100 south streetcar only
Steven Brinton
FYI - S. Begin forwarded message: From:
Steve Brinton Subject: Sugar House TRAX
line Date: April 22, 2013 1:52:23 PM MT To:
Council Comments , "Simonsen, Soren" City
Council & Mayor, As a business and property
owner in Salt Lake City, I am very concerned
about the various proposals for the
extension of the new TRAX line. I have read
the favored route which runs North on 11th
and contend it is a route to nowhere and
serves no real purpose. The congestion along
an already crowded 11th east would force
traffic away from the area not enhance the
appeal of the area. Many of the businesses
would lose there limited street parking along
with the congestion might force many of
these unique businesses to relocate
elsewhere. I am in favor of the TRAX going to
the east which would serve the most
important asset in the area, Sugar House
Park. In addition, in the future it would
provide a link to the eastern portion of the
SLC area and the many needs along 21st
south to foothill blvd. 21st South also has
the size necessary to accomodate the new
line. The letter from Soren Simonsen is a
very detailed and thoughtful report on this
proposed route. Please except my response
Randy Worrall
Salt Lake City Council c/o John Anderson
Principal Planner Salt Lake City Corporation
451 South State Street, Rm. 406 Salt Lake
City, Utah 84111 Subject: Epic Brewing
Zoning Map Amendment Dear City Council
Members, I am writing to you today in
support of the Epic Brewing’s Zoning
Map Amendment that will be brought in
front of the City Council on Tuesday, April
23. The current proposal made by Epic
Brewing is a well-planned compromise that
preserves the existing neighborhood on
Edison Street while providing growth
opportunities and serves the interests of
Epic Brewing and the citizens of the city at
large. The proposal enables Epic Brewing to
make a much needed expansion on State
Street thereby providing additional jobs, tax
basis and general economic support to the
community. Furthermore, Epic Brewing is a
responsible, Utah-based/owned company, is
environmentally friendly, a tourist
destination and supports numerous local
non-profits, such as: Discovery Gateway,
Clark Planetarium, Hogle Zoo, Make a Wish
Foundation, Ronald McDonald House, Head
Start, Cross Roads Urban Center, the Boys
and Girls Club, Huntsman Cancer Institute,
Roger Jones
City Council: Please consider that the most
useful continuation of the Sugar House
Streetcar route would track east up 21st
South, then further to the business area up
Parley's Way which now includes medical &
commercial offices, Wallmart, Cowboy Grub,
and a dense apartment complex. On the way
it could serve Highland High School and the
many businesses strung out along along that
route. Roger Jones 2720 St. Mary's Way Salt
Lake City, Utah 84108-2040 801 5819576
Pam Earle
To Who This May Concern: I think the idea of
using 11th east for tracks does not make
sense. To whom or what segment of the
population will this plan part accommodate?
The money to be spent on this part of the
Track's line is a waste of the taxpayer's
money and further, that part of 11th east is
so narrow, that the businesses in that area
will suffer. I cannot emphasize how
unpracticable this plan is!!!! An interested
taxpayer, P Earle
J FREEMAN
I have lived in Sugarhouse all my life and
right now I live on 2100 South east of
Sugarhouse Park and I absolutely do not see
a warrant for Trax, nor, the tens of
thousands of dollars it would take to build it
to continue East on 2100 S. I believe that
Sugarhouse Park might possibly be a
destination but nothing East of the Park,
certainly not Highland High School and not
21st and 21st. I even think the bus lines that
travel 2100 S. should be downsized to
smaller commuter buses since we only see 24 people utilizing it at any given time. The
Sugarhouse area and East of Sugarhouse
Park are surrounding quiet neighborhoods of
families, lovely old homes and tree lined
streets and not big business like downtown
SLC, the U of U, and some of its connecting
areas. Please, please don't make us into a big
business district and ruin the ambiance of
the Sugarhouse area. Thanks! JF
Maurine Bachman
jennie jones
I completely support Charlie Luke and Soren
Simonsen position on the streetcar route. I
think that the 11th east option to 9&9 again
shows the Mayors concern for downtown
and totally ignores the east side. Currently
east side/Foothill is not served by any transit
option beyond poor bus service. It is time for
the City transit option to include the east
bench and foothill areas. The reasoning for
the 11th East option as a redevelopment
option does not make sense either. Look at
the area on 11th and then to 9th & 9th, the
area on 11th is redeveloping on its own, in
its own way and then it is heavily residential
in the area outside the corners. Seems like
one of the concerns at the City is to preserve
housing and encouraging redevelopment
takes that housing away. Taking the
streetcar east on 2100 South where again
redevelopment is slowing happening is a
more appropriate commercial/business
area. Why not continue the streetcar/bike
path through the new PRATT project into the
park and up to 2100 South at 1500 East.
Please send the streetcar east.
I vote for the plan where the street car goes
up by sugarhouse park. It just makes so
much sense to have the park be a
destination on the route.
Larry Okun
RE: extension of Sugar House Streetcar I
want to express my present strong
preference for the north along 11th East
option. As has been noted, this would
connect a *walkable* light commercial area
along 11th East to Sugar House and
Westminster College. As also pointed out, it
could eventually be extended to the 9th East9th South commercial area and beyond to
the TRAX line at 9th East /4th South, thus
linking Wesminster, three important
commercial/residential areas (Sugar House,
9th&9th, and the 4th South set) -- all
walkable and suited for a streetcar -- plus,
via TRAX, the University and central SLC. The
arguments for the alternative, east
extension along 21st East, with proposed
later extension to Foothill Blvd, then to the
University and TRAX, seem unpersuasive.
The following points can be emphasized: 1.
Neither 21st South nor Foothill Blvd. are
pedestrian-friendly stretches suitable for a
streetcar line. 2. The suggested access to
Highland High offers doubtful advantage.
High school students would likely use such
transportation only twice per day -- morning
and early afternoon -- with heavy use during
those two periods not easily met by any
lyn
I am opposed to the extensions of the trolley
line east on 21st south or north on 11th
east. I see no reason to lay tracks over old
municipal services under the street which
may fail after the tracks are in. I see no
reason why it is better to have to juggle
transfers between schedules of two different
types of lines: bus and rail. I do not agree
that electrical lines and tracks running in the
lanes with cars is a good idea. Is it true that
the electrical cars will be less polluting, or
are we just saying that the pollution
connected with the production of the
electricity will move the pollution away from
downtown? Isn't a natural gas bus a good
enough pollution answer? I have spoken
with an official of the UTA lines who say they
have had nothing to do with the
development of the tracks plan which is
disliked by many in my neighborhood. Why
are they not a huge part of the analysis of
this program? Over the years they cancelled
the bus line east-west on Garfield because it
was underused. How many years will it take
to fully utilize the slow development of a
complete trolley line? How does the price of
putting on more busses as needed, (with
more frequent coverage to accommodate
Deb Day Olivier
Re: Sugarhouse streetcar Routing For myself
I want the streetcar to go to Sugarhouse
Park-and later to keep heading east as I live
on the bench. The dream of reasonable cost,
convenient mass transit is elusive here in our
valley. The best route, for now, however
goes on 11th. Westminster college students
could use it to go to downtown Sugarhouse
to shop and dine.
Carole Straughn
Hello Council Members, I favor going east on
2100 South from the Sugar House
Monument to connect to SH Park and
Highland High School. Eventually, I'd like to
see it go on to connect to business nodes at
21 & 21 and at 2300 East, then eventually to
Foothill Drive. My reasons have to do with
my own needs, those of local students and
of the business people on 1100 East. As for
myself, I am already using more transit than
ever, and I expect to use it even more as I
age. Living in the more densely populated
areas of Westminster Neighborhood, I can
walk the College and the business areas
along 1100 East, but it takes too long to walk
up hill to my credit union Mountain America
or to Fresh Market, for example. In addition,
1100 East seems very tight for a streetcar. I
think it is more important to provide transit
service for the Highland High students than
for the Westminster students, for two
reasons. First, the high-schoolers are less
experienced drivers, and second, they come
from a larger catchment area. Second,
Westminster students do just fine walking,
biking or skate-boarding between the
College and Westminster on the draw and
the adjacent business district. I am happy to
David Shrider
I have lived in central sugarhouse for twenty
years and drive the area daily. By far the
most logical route for the streetcar is east to
sugarhoue park, Highland High School and
beyond. Check your demographics. Sending
the streetcar north on 1100 east makes NO
sense. Choosing a narrow, two lane surface
street that is already congested - it is a
parking lot during rush hour - defies reason.
You would need to tear up sidewalks,
remove trees and landscaping, reconfigure
utilities and otherwise destroy the very
ambiance sugarhouse is noted for. Thank
you for the work you do. David Shrider (1963
S. 1200 E. No.610, SLC, 84105)
Amy Barry
Hello- We received the below comment via
our facebook page and promised to pass it
along to the city council. Regards, Sugar
House Community Council Nikki Angel'la
Parsons Thanks to Soren Simonsen for the
letter that District 7 residents received. It
clarified a lot of the questions I've had and
articulated my concerns. I agree with Mr.
Simonsen about sending the streetcar to
Sugar House Park rather than 17th east. If
we had a farmers market or some other
draw at that intersection, it would make
more sense... Though I would still fear that
putting in a streetcar would mean widening
roads and I would hate to see 11th get
widened. I prefer the idea of utilizing areas
where more space already exists and the
destinations are visited by more people.
That's the way to reduce congestion.
Tiffani Taylor
I think it should extend to 900 S. It's a
fabulous idea and the people opposing it are
too attached to their cars. I live in Gilmer
Park and love the idea of our city "growing
up". Thank you. Tiffani Taylor
Brent and Nina Berry
My husband I live in the Sugarhouse area
(Hollywood Avenue-1965 South 1500 East).
We will be unable to attend the public
hearing on April 23 and wanted to share our
comments with you. While we support
extending the TRAX line east on 2100 South
to 1300 East and Sugarhouse Park, we do
not support extending the line east to
Highland Drive and 1100 East to 1700 South.
The intersection on Highland Drive and 2100
South is already too congested and adding a
street car into this intersection will make it
more so. Continuing the streetcar parallel to
2100 South is better. I hope you will take our
comments into consideration as we who live
in this area are the ones who must deal with
the decisions you make every day. Thank
you. Brent and Nina Berry
Mike Rasch
I am writing to express my support for
extending the streetcar line eastward from
1100 East to Sugarhouse Park and eventually
farther east on 2100 South, rather than
extending it to the north along 1100 East. I
am an apartment building owner near
Sugarhouse Park. Public transportation is
currently lacking in the area above 1300 East
along the 2100 South corridor. It is currently
inconvenient for my tenants and others
living in the area near Sugarhouse Park to
use public transportation to access the
downtown area, the University of Utah, and
the Foothill Village area. An eastward
extension of the streetcar line fits better
with existing public transportation and
planned future changes. Mike Rasch
Sheldon Furst
Dear City Council Members: I strongly
support the extension of the Sugarhouse
Streetcar up Wilmington to Sugarhouse Park.
I do NOT support the extension up 1100
East. 1100 East is already very congested;
adding the streetcar will only make a bad
situation worse. More importantly,
Sugarhouse Park is an important destination;
having the streetcar stop two blocks short of
the park greatly diminishes the utility of the
streetcar. Thank you for your consideration.
Sheldon
Salt Lake
City,
UTAnderson
84108
Salt LakeFurst
City Council
c/o
John
Susan Passino
Principal Planner Salt Lake City Corporation
451 South State Street, Rm. 406 Salt Lake
City, Utah 84111 Subject: Epic Brewing
Zoning Map Amendment Dear City Council
Members, I am writing to you today in
support of the Epic Brewing’s Zoning
Map Amendment that will be brought in
front of the City Council on Tuesday, April
23. The current proposal made by Epic
Brewing is a well-planned compromise that
preserves the existing neighborhood on
Edison Street while providing growth
opportunities and serves the interests of
Epic Brewing and the citizens of the city at
large. The proposal enables Epic Brewing to
make a much needed expansion on State
Street thereby providing additional jobs, tax
basis and general economic support to the
community. I had read about the
revitalization of the State Street when I first
moved to Salt Lake from San Francisco and
to then discover Epic Brewery was a big
hooray. I saw so many areas in San Francisco
go through transitions when I lived there and
truly believe that Epic can be a huge
contributor to the vision of the city. Mixed
neighborhoods are a huge attraction and
Robert Gill
Blare Sorenson
Thanks for the info re Sugar House Streetcar,
I totally agree that coming up (east on 21st
South) is the best solution. Keep up the good
work!
Street on 1100 east are too narrow please
do not put a streetcar there.
no to the 1100 east streetcar.
Melissa Lichtenstein
Søren; Melissa Lichtenstein called to let you
and the other Council Members know she is
opposed to the streetcar on 1100 East. She
feels it makes more sense to have it head
east on 2100 South to Highland High School,
and extend east from there with future
extensions. She said 1100 East is already
very congested and adding the streetcar to
the mix will only make it worse. Many
homes and businesses on 1100 East only
have on-street parking and Melissa feels
running the streetcar through there will be
bad for business and the community. Front
Office-Will you please add these comments
to the matrix? Thanks, Brian
Miriam Anderson
Becky Lawlor
From: Becky Lawlor
[mailto:becky.lawlor@gmail.com] Sent:
Monday, April 22, 2013 1:02 PM To:
Butterfield, Edward Subject: SugarHouse
Street Car Hi, I am a resident of Salt Lake City
and live near 1700 S. 800 E. I am against
having the street car go north along 1100 E.
This area (between Whole Foods & 1700
S./1100E.) is already MUCH too congested. I
cannot see how it can even accommodate a
street car. I am already VERY concerned
about the additional traffic that will come
online when SugarHouse Crossing is
complete. This area needs BIKE LANES and
improved pedestrian access, not a street car.
I would like to bike over there to run my
errands, especially with my kids in tow, but it
is currently too dangerous given the traffic
congestion, on street parking, etc. So I
drive.... If the City wants to continue the
street car line, I think it makes the most
sense to take it North to Sugar House park.
Though I would prefer it go north along the
street between Whole Foods and the
Sundance Outlet (Willimington?). Less
traffic. Getting the street car to 2100 S. and
running it north from there still seems like
too congested of an area. I am for public
Megan Smith
From: Megan Smith
[mailto:mleighsmith@gmail.com] Sent:
Monday, April 22, 2013 11:31 AM To:
Butterfield, Edward; Luke, Charlie Subject:
Streetcar Allignment Hi, I'm a SLC resident
who lives in the 2100 E & 2100 S
neighborhood. I'd like to advocate for the
streetcar to come east, up 2100 S. I agree
with Councilman Luke in that the
consultant's analysis was undermined by not
factoring in the Park. Further, I belive my
neighborhood is ripe for pedestrian friendly
redevelopment. Within the last few years, a
large condo building has gone in near
Dillworth elementary - condo owners are
more likely to use public transport than
homeowners I would think. There are
currently two large parcels awaiting for
someone to buy them up and redevelope
them - on 2100 East, between Dilworth and
the Blue Plate, where the Works used to be
and on 2100 South where Formosa Grill used
to be. With the streetcar coming towards us,
I think developers would be much more
inclined to come up with an eco
friendly/multi use building design
(retail/office/condo) if there were an
assurance it would be served by a
Mary Spaid
From: maryspaid@comcast.net
[mailto:MARYSPAID@comcast.net] Sent:
Saturday, April 20, 2013 6:31 PM To:
Butterfield, Edward Cc: Luke, Charlie Subject:
Sugarhouse Streetcar - Please choose 2100
South Hello - We moved to Salt Lake City in
1997. We used to be able to walk a very
short distance to mulitiple bus stops (on
2300 East and 2100 South). Now, we need to
go up to Foothill Blvd or 2100 East. The
neighbor's kids (older than mine) always
took the bus to school. My kids used to take
TRAX to school (West High School). They
only transfered to the bus as a last resort,
since it meant a 15 minute walk with their
backpacks at the end of what became a very
long day. Then the University TRAX line
stopped going directly to the Arena, so they
don't take TRAX at all. We drive. Just once,
could our neighborhood be conveniently
served by public transportation? Please
choose 2100 South for the Sugarhouse
Streetcar. I would love to not have to drive
(and park!) along this congested route to
shop and dine. thank you Mary Spaid 1929
South Nevada Street(2325 East) Salt Lake
City, UT 84108
Paul Werner
I strongly support the proposal to extend the
street car along 11th East to 17th South. I
think it’s brilliant. In fact, I hope the
street car will eventually be extended
through 9th/9th to connect with TRAX at the
4th South station. Best regards. PWW 1139
East Yale Avenue Salt Lake City, UT 841051514 801.582.2226 paul.werner@ge.com
@pwwerner
Aimee Adanson
I will not be able to attend the Apr 23
meeting but I would like to state my opinion
here regarding the SHS. For now, I believe
the best route is the east extension up 2100
S for all the reasons stated by council
member Charlie Luke. However, we need to
think about the traffic mess we now have in
and around Westminster College and future
plans need to take into consideration how to
expand in that direction without gutting
11th East. Thank you. Victor Pardini District 6
I would like to see the car go up 21st south
to 17th east. aimee adamson
Kim Gianelo
To whom it may concern: I support
expanding the streetcar expansion up the
21st south corridor. I do NOT support the
extension along Highland and north to 1700
South. This route is already too congested.
Thank you, Kim Gianelo 976 Wilson Ave.
Margaret Anderson
To the council members, I will not be able to
make it to the meeting on April 23 but would
like to give my recommendations as a
person living in the sugarhouse area. I feel
strongly about continuing the streetcar to
the east and NOT along 11th East. It makes a
lot more sense in so many ways and 11th
East is already so crowded it makes me
nervous to even think about adding a
streetcar there. Thank you for your
consideration in this matter. Margaret
Anderson
Victor Pardini
Roberta Burden
To Whom It May Concern, I find it more than
a littledisconcerting that the 11th East route
for the proposed streetcar has been under
consideration for more than a year, while
the Sugar House businesses and residents
have just begun hearing about it within the
last few weeks. Tearing up 11th East for a
streetcar that might accommodate a few
people averse to actually walking a few
blocks, would certainly destroy businesses
along this route to say nothing of the major
inconvenience to private residences. Many
are just small businesses. And access to the
Post Office, library and banks would be nonexistent. In the event of construction on
11th East, the huge quantity of daily traffic
on this route would be diverted to parallel
McClelland, a narrow residential street with
small children. We experienced just three
days of this diversion last summer during
some brief repair on 11th East. It was a
nightmare with speeding cars, buses and
constant noise. Sugar House has a warm,
friendly, small town feeling. Quality of life is
a major component of living in this area.
Lengthy major construction, snarled traffic
and a clanging street car would utterly
destroy this quality. I have not spoken to a
Samuel Brown
I have reviewed the brochure you sent and
am in favor of extending rail service. I would
vote for the "Possible Route" up the north
side of Sugar House park over the currently
"recommended" route along 1100 E. I think
for people who have to get to the station on
foot or on bicycle they would prefer to NOT
have to go up the fault from 1100-1300 E,
and the route up the north side of Sugar
House park would be better in that regard. I
would not mind the increased congestion on
2100 S, as I think 1700 S is a reasonable
option for getting east-west. -- ---------------Samuel Brown
Michael Lobb
Council Members- Michael Lobb called to
register his opposition to the proposed 1100
East street car alignment. He owns property
at 1714 South 1100 East and believes the
traffic is already too congested in this area.
Putting a trolley there would only make it
worse. He supports Council Members
Simonsen’s idea to run the trolley east to
Sugar House Park. He believes it would be
more beneficial to run it to 1700 East along
2100 South.
Todd Slack
Council, My wife and I have lived in Sugar
House for nearly 20 years. We reside on
Imperial Street, just north of 2100 South.
The public transportation (bus) currently
available is never used to its full extent.
There are usually only a handful of people
who ride the bus. In other words, public
transportation in this area is not high on the
priority list for "most" residents. It makes
more sense to place the Trax extension in a
business area as opposed to a residential
area. If I had a vote, I would vote against the
2100 South extension. Unfortunately, all I
have is an opinion to share. This said, I don't
even know what my opinion is worth
anymore. UYTA and SLC are going to do
what UTA and SLC want to do. Most of my
neighbors share similar thoughts as myself.
Be wise, be productive, be responsible in this
decision. Thanks for your interest. Todd
Slack (801) 485-9693 2010 S Imperial Street
SLC, UT 84105
Doug Gould
From: Doug Gould Date: Sat, Apr 20, 2013 at
5:02 PM Subject: Re: Streetcar Community
Update from Council Member Love To:
Gilmer Park Neighborhood Association Cc:
council.comments@slc.gov A far more
important question is "who is paying for all
this?" I don't remember seeing anything on
that subject. Seems to me that it is
irresponsible to embark on any such project
right now that is not seriously needed. Our
Federal government is badly in debt and
shouldn't be paying grant money for this
kind of pork. Utah is in better shape, but it
shouldn't be peeing away funds on a project
that will probably never even generate
enough revenue to pay its ongoing operating
expenses. I say, drop this "Toonerville
Trolley" project in its tracks now before any
more money is wasted! Doug Gould
Phyllis L. Vandermolen
To members of the Salt Lake City Council, I
support the extension of the Sugarhouse
streetcar going east along 2100 South. It
seems to me that the destinations of
Sugarhouse Park and HIghland High School
would be popular and well-used. It also
seems to me that 2100 S can handle the
impact of construction with less harm to
local businesses than the section of 1100E
going north from 2100 S towards 1700 S.
Thank you. Sincerely, Phyllis L. Vandermolen
Barbara Behnke
Re: the Sugarhouse Streetcar route options, I
very strongly advocate the "blue" route
depicted in the recent postal mailing, which
would travel east to 1300 East , then on
2100 South. Hopefully it would eventually go
past Highland High School. I am in
agreement with Soren Simonsen's ideas and
strongly support Soren's proposal. Thank you
for considering my perspective, Barbara
Behnke
iPad Please do not dig
Dear SaltSent
Lakefrom
Citymy
Council:
Barb Shelley
up 1100 East and convert it for a streetcar
line. That section of our beloved Sugar
House is way too congested and busy now.
Let’s not add more confusion with a
streetcar line. A streetcar just provides
another option for travel. People are still
going to be driving through that area in their
cars. The intersection of 1100 East and 2100
South is way too congested, crazy busy, and
too narrow to add a streetcar line to it.
Let’s enjoy that historic part of our
community and encourage walking in that
area. If the streetcar has to be extended (oh
that I wish it could run parallel to I-80), than
let’s run it up 2100 South via Wilmington
or Simpson Ave and 1300 East and increase
connecting bus routes for use by folks who
need to travel to the University of Utah and
Westminster College. Placing the streetcar
on 2100 South via 1300 East can help
support the retail shopping on 1300 East.
Thank you for listening to my concerns.
Please vote NO on the idea of running a
streetcar line on 1100 East to 1700 South.
Barb Shelley 2002 South 1700 East SLC
84108 P.O. Box 526181 Salt Lake City, UT
84152-6181 801-673-7837, cell
Dennis Kelsch
I am strongly opposed to extending the
trolley down 11oo East. There is no room for
it and it will go nowhere (to 1700 S.). Take it
up 2100 South to Highland HS. I live at 1144
Westminster Ave., SLC, 84105. PLEASE do
NOT go down 1100 East! Dennis Kelsch
Kaye Terry
Re: Soren Simonsen's district wide letter. My
husband and I have lived at approximately
2155 So and 2500 East since 1978. We love
the neighborhood and have watched the bus
system up here gradually disappear.
However, we are both OPPOSED to running
trax up 2100 South. 21st is already
congested and the narrowing of the street
plus the dangerous mix of cars and trains is
not good. We are both curious as to why you
want to put in an expensive, dangerous,
fixed system when what you really need to
do is expand the bus service as it was before.
Thank you for your consideration of this email. Kaye & Rob Terry. Sent from my iPhone
Kevin R Schiedler
Dear Council Members, I am concerned
about the proposed extension of the Sugar
House street car project. I am concerned
that the Council is considering expanding a
new form of transportation before the first
phase of the project is complete. Running
the new streetcar for a year or more to
collect usage data, operating costs, and final
construction costs would give the city a
much better idea of the true costs and
benefits of this form of transportation
before committing many millions of dollars
in taxpayer money to an expansion. The first
phase has a projected ridership of 3,000
people per day and an installed cost of $55.5
million. This works out to about $2.50 per
ride over the first 20 years without factoring
in the operating costs. While this is far
cheaper than the Trax line, it is still a major
upfront cost for a two mile trip regardless of
the funding source. The current
"recommended" route going north up
Highland street would make travel by motor
vehicle very difficult in this area during
construction and afterwards without
increasing the transportation capacity of
Highland significantly. There simply is not
the physical space to accommodate both a
D. P. Gall
Dear Council Members: I would like to say
that as a resident of Sugarhouse, I am totally
opposed to the proposed idea of running a
streetcar along 1100 East to 1700 South.
From a resident’s point of view this
proposal is unnecessary and a total waste of
Federal grant funds. The Mayor has initiated
the inclusion of bike paths on both sides of
1100 East which is a good move to help with
the environment and the image of Salt Lake
City. However, there is no need to add
congestion in Sugarhouse with streetcars
running along routes currently served by
UTA buses!!! It makes very little sense. I only
hope this is still a “plan―and not a
public relations event to mask a decision
already secretly approved!! I will participate
in the public hearings on Tuesday to again
voice my rigorous opposition to this poorly
conceived “plan―
!! D. P. Gall
Ana Holt
Mr Soren Simonsen, Mr Charlie Luke Just
recently, about a week ago, we received
mention that the city council is attempting
to implement a street car on our street 2100
S 1700 East. We are a young couple raising
three young children. We have nothing
against public transportation, in fact, my
husband and I are very happy customers of
TRAX and UTA, we own only one car, so we
ride the bus on our street on daily basis. It is
for this main reason that we see no need for
extra public transportation right on our
street, we already have four different routes
relatively near our area routes 21, 223, 220,
and 213 for those who need public
transportation like us. We don’t
understand your intentions. Why to waste
funds on areas that are already covered by
UTA? Would it not be easier to look for ways
to enhance the service they already provide
without altering the peace on our
neighborhood street which we already have
to endure living on a busy street? We
appreciate your good intentions for
improving public transportation but feel that
implementing the street car on 2100 South
and 1700 East and farther east not only is
unneeded but will bring a negative impact
Helen M. Peters
Dear Mayor and Councilmembers, Please
see attached letter for the Friends of the
South Salt Lake and Sugar House Streetcar's
position on the LPA. Thanks, Helen Peters
Chair, Friends of the Streetcar Helen M.
Peters 2803 Beverly Street Salt Lake City,
Utah 84106 801-560-5036
Kevin Flynn
I tried to post a comment using Open City
Hall but after signing up, I couldn't find a way
to post a comment, so I will use this email. I
am a resident of Salt Lake City, living in the
Highland Park area near Sugarhouse, and I
agree with Soren Simonsens thinking that
the streetcar line should go East to
Sugarhouse Park, and not turn North to 1700
South. I plan to ride my bike to the park (or
Highland High) and ride the streetcar to go
down town, or to the airport in the future.
thank you for your efforts to serve our
community, Kevin Flynn 1875 Atkin Ave. Salt
Lake City, UT 84106 USA 801-706-3344
Al Dieffenbach
Dear council, Al Dieffenbach from Salt Lake
Pizza and Pasta Fiddler's Elbow re-writing to
you to implore that you do not build the
streetcar/TRAX line down 1100 east. I call it
a TRAX line because if it is a TRAX car on
track just like a TRAX train it still is a TRAX
line not a street car as in the original design
phase. I am very disappointed with the
mayor's decision to back this route when it
should go to the monument and then
eastward to the park. Westminster students
would ride it Highland high school students
would as well as all the new people moving
into the high density housing along 2100
east corridor. The majority of the businesses
that I have spoken with located on 100 east
don't want this to be the route to
"NOWHERE" instead they all want it to go to
the park and eventually further east to
foothill and the U of U. Thanks, Al
Dieffenbach 801-463-9393
Sarah Clinger
City Council: I am having a hard time
understanding why you would bring the
streetcar along 21st South. I live south west
of the 21st and 21st intersection and do not
believe that a streetcar will benefit this
neighborhood. I have seen the flier that
explains the proposed extension and still can
not understand why you would bring it along
21st South. I feel like you have never driven
along 21st South during high traffic times.
Knowing that streetcars make frequent stops
I can only imagine how many more accidents
there are going to be because of impatient
drivers. With all of the stops that streetcars
make it is going to make traffic even more
congested. I know that some of you live in
this neighborhood and I can not understand
why you would want to add extra
congestion. There are no shopping
destinations, restaurants or attractions that
you would need to provide extra
transportation. There have been many bus
stops that have been cancelled because no
one uses the stops. This shows that there is
not a need for the extra transportation. I feel
that if you do not have the public requesting
this type of transportation it is a waste of
money. It shows that you are not being
Amy Bradford
Please do not allow the rail to be extended
to 2100 S. This is located directly near an
elementary school, close to many private,
currently safe neighborhoods. Those that
might need the rail can easily walk a few
blocks to the entrance station, as well as
take a bus or ride a bike. Please help us keep
neighborhoods and school zones safe for
children and their neighborhoods. Thank
you, Amy Bradford (neighborhood resident)
Maxine Babalis
To whom it may concern enough to read
this: I have lived in and walked the streets of
Sugarhouse for my 72 years and am totally
familiar with its streets, alleys and traffic
patterns. I've been reading about your two
options for adding a streetcar to one of two
already very crowded and congested areas.
Removing the right turn lane from 21st So.
to Highland Drive will make it even more
congested. Instead of tearing up the streets
and putting in a streetcar (although nostalgic
and colorful), why not invest in some
smaller, non-polluting shuttle buses that
would run regularly through the Sugarhouse
area. When the time comes to extend TRAX
farther east, those shuttles could still be
used to transport people from the TRAX
stops to areas north such as on 11th East,
15th East, 17th East, 21st East, and Foothill
Drive. When changes are made in the TRAX
routes, there will be different needs as to
which routes are most needed. Why tear up
streets to put in embedded tracks, when
they may not even be needed in the future?
The vote currently seems to be favoring 11th
East. That makes no sense. When it reaches
17th South, that's a hefty uphill walk to
Westminster College. Except for a drugstore,
John C. Stringham
I am completely opposed to extending the
rail spur from 1100 East up 2100 South past
1300 East. About 10 years ago, I served on
the public advisory committee to consider
closure of our neighborhood school, Rosslyn
Heights. Contrary to the recommendations
of the committee, Rosslyn Heights was
closed requiring all of the grade school
students to cross 2100 South in order to get
to Dilworth Elementary. It is alarming to me
that our representative Soren Simonsen,
who I have supported in past elections, is in
favor of extending the rail spur up 2100
South forcing 100’s of young children to
twice daily cross an active Trax line.
Additionally, the idea to bring Trax up to
Highland High, which has many
inexperienced drivers, is a bad idea. These
drivers are already prone to accidents, and
placing a Trax line in their path is just asking
for trouble. Mr. Simonsen has mentioned
that one of the advantages of Trax around
2100 South and 1100 East is the high density
housing that already exists and has been
recently built. The neighborhood further
east on 2100 South does not have high
density housing and bringing Trax through
such neighborhoods in not only a massive
Dennis R. and Annette L. Weight
My wife and I just recently received a letter
from Soren Simonsen, Salt Lake City Council
Member, District Seven requesting
community input for the future expansion of
a streetcar line to connect Sugarhouse
District. May we say that we agree with
every comment made by Mr. Simonsen.
Annette and I both feel it would be a big
mistake to have the streetcar running on
Highland Drive and proceeding on 1100 East
to 1700 South. In fact we both laughed that
anyone would even consider such a thing.
Has anyone tried to get to the Post-office in
1100 East? It is a nightmare. Why would you
even consider putting a a streetcar on a road
that is already so tiny, cars have difficulty
trying to move bumper-to-bumper to get to
the 21st stop light. Has anyone tried getting
out of the Post-office on to 1100 East? Add a
streetcar and you might have to relocate the
Post-office Having lived at our 1500 East
residence since 1980, we have seen many
changes to the Sugar-house area, that we
feel we know the area and what is best for
it. We saw homes torn down to make room
for the shopping area that has spread
Northward to 21st South. These business are
great. We love having them. However, have
K. Hale
Over 20 year resident of east Sugarhouse
and am strongly in favor of a spur extending
at least to Sugarhouse park and Highland
High. Would really have a positive impact for
students and commuters. Long term
projection up to Park City could be
considered... Or possible connection along
belt route and other canyons and U of U. My
neighbors are not as supportive but I think it
is futuristic and progressive. K. Hale Berkeley
St. resident since 1992 and Salt Lake resident
entire life. Sent from my iPhone
Kristin Kraus
I am writing to express my opinion regarding
the proposed streetcar routes. I do not agree
that the route upto 1700 south is the best.
My preference would be for the route that
goes to the sugar house shopping center.
The area around1100 east and 2100 south is
too concongested, 1100 east is ALREADY too
narrow and there is little business at the
proposed terminus to benefit from the
street car. Sincerely, Kristin Kraus 2545
Melbourne st. Salt lake city, ut 84106
Mary jane Berg
I think the best plan is for the Sugar House
streetcar to go up 2100 South. 1100 East is
too small, and too neighborly for such a
large transportation vehicle, and would ruin
the charm of that district. 2100 South is
already a large street, with a lot of
commercial activity on it, and would be a
much preferable choice. Mary Jane Berg |
Paralegal STOEL RIVES LLP | 201 S. Main St,
Suite 1100 | Salt Lake City, UT 84111-4904
Direct: (801) 578-6949 | Fax: (801) 578-6999
mjberg@stoel.com | www.stoel.com This
email may contain material that is
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product for the sole use of the intended
recipient. Any unauthorized review, use, or
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environment before printing this email.
Sheila Privett
To Whom It May Concern: In my opinion, the
congestion along 1100 East from 2100 South
to 1900 South is absolutely horrible and
shame on those who decided to narrow the
road years ago. I suppose it was to beautify
the area but instead it is a digusting sight.
Traffic is out of control and then to suggest
bringing in a Streetcar to add to the
congestion and miserable attempt to get
through this area is not a good idea.
Sincerely,
Sheila
PrivettI have waited to
Salt Lake City
Council-
Amy Barry
submit my comments via email to the city
council until the community council
meetings had occured. I have participated in
this issue since the beginning. I want to
thank the RDA and Transportation for all
their work on this issue. I am very pleased
with the amount of public involvement in
this process during the open houses, etc. The
issue before the city council is the reflection
of a lot of work and outreach done by those
folks. Unfortunately, the issue of the
streetcar extension has not been on the
public radar for some time. The timing of it
coming to the city council has been quick
and there was no notice that the city was
ready to move on this for a vote until last
month. As such the community council did
not have enough time to really do much
public outreach on this issue to remind folks
about it. The Sugar House Community
Council hosted 2 information meetings for
the public to come and learn more about the
issue at hand. From straw polls it was clear
that we are fairly evenly divided as a
community both from residents and
business owners. A small majority voted to
extend the line east along 2100 S. I see value
Catherine L. McNally
Dear Council Members, It is with great
consternation that I recently learned of Mr.
Simonsen's proposal to build a Trax line on
2100 South. As a twenty-year resident of the
area, I vehemently oppose his proposal and
wish the council to know that he does not
represent my position or interests on this
issue--quite the opposite. 2100 South is
already too narrow and heavily trafficked for
a primarily residential area, above 1300 East
especially. Elementary-aged school children
cross at 2100 East. The addition of a Trax
line would make that intersection even more
dangerous. The handful of small businesses
above 1300 East do not warrant an intrusion
of this scale into the heavily residential areas
on either side of 2100 South, and below
1300 East, the street is far too narrow for
safety or convenience if a Trax line were
added. In addition, a new Trax line would
further congest 2100 East and divert even
more traffic to Foothill Blvd. Given that
public transport is supposed to alleviate
congestion on our streets as well as that
there are relatively few and small businesses
along the proposed route, not to mention,
the noise and congestion that Trax inevitably
means wherever it is located, this almost
Alyssa Hickman Grove
I'm writing to express my strong opposition
to the plan to extend the Sugar House
Streetcar north up 1100 East to 1700 South.
As a resident of Wilson Avenue between
1000 and 1100 East, I can tell you that this is
indeed a line going nowhere, ending at a
terminus that is not a destination, and
impeding vehicle traffic on a street that has
only two lanes and is already congested.
Mayor Becker's plan to someday extend the
line over to the 9th and 9th area, then over
to TRAX at 900 East and 400 South, extends
public transportation into a neighborhood
already well-served by public transit.
Councilman Simonsen's plan is far superior:
extend the line up 2100 South to eventually
connect with Foothill Drive, then proceed
north on Foothill to connect to TRAX at the
University of Utah. This plan serves at least
two high-traffic destinations immediately,
Sugarhouse Park and Highland High School,
and connects the east bench to the rest of
the city via public transit. The plan also
makes use of streets that have four lanes
and can better accommodate a streetcar
line. Please add my voice to the voices of the
many residents calling for Council support of
Soren Simonsen and Charlie Luke's plan for
Steve Brinton
City Council & Mayor, As a business and
property owner in Salt Lake City, I am very
concerned about the various proposals for
the extension of the new TRAX line. I have
read the favored route which runs North on
11th and contend it is a route to nowhere
and serves no real purpose. The congestion
along an already crowded 11th east would
force traffic away from the area not enhance
the appeal of the area. Many of the
businesses would lose there limited street
parking along with the congestion might
force many of these unique businesses to
relocate elsewhere. I am in favor of the TRAX
going to the east which would serve the
most important asset in the area, Sugar
House Park. In addition, in the future it
would provide a link to the eastern portion
of the SLC area and the many needs along
21st south to foothill blvd. 21st South also
has the size necessary to accomodate the
new line. The letter from Soren Simonsen is
a very detailed and thoughtful report on this
proposed route. Please except my response
and support in favor of the proposed route
eastward on 21st south. Steve Brinton
Mark O. Morris
To whom it may concern. I live in the Rosslyn
Heights neighborhood around 2100 South
and 1900 East. The idea to bring trax to
sugarhouse is terrific. There are rail lines
that already exist, and it will doubtless help
the business district there grow and
hopefully turn into something beneficial for
all. The idea of taking the line further north,
or east, however, is odious. 1100 East barely
has room for two lanes, let alone a trax line
running down the middle of the street. And
2100 South is already maxed out with car
traffic. The disruption of building another
branch line up the road as far east as the
Walmart? Insupportable. Utilizing a rail
route that has fallen into disuse is a great
idea for existing resources, with a relatively
light incremental burden on the areas
affected. Ruining a quintessential residential
area with construction and rail that will
become a permanent blight on the
neighborhood aesthetics we enjoy in the
neighborhood is bad policy, a waste of
money, and can’t be retaken. Don’t
go there. See how this idea works with the
crowd in the Avenues. When trax goes up
into the Avenues and provides a stop at the
Shriner’s hospital – that’s when the
Clifford and Vena Childs
We live in District Six. We want to express
our opinion about the proposals for
streetcar extension. We strongly agree with
the opinion that it should go east to 1300
East and Sugar House Park with a further
extension to Highland High School. The
proposal to go north on 1100 East to 1700
South should be abandoned. The
intersection of 2100 S and Highland Drive
would NOT be improved with additional
congestion. Already we find ourselves
avoiding Sugar House and especially that
route because of congestion. Service to the
north can be handled with better planning
and different choices. Thank you for listening
to our opinion. Clifford and Vena Childs
Greg Sumner
Greetings My wife and I support Simon
Sorensons concept for the Sugarhouse Trolly
alignment . Thank you, Greg Sumner
Patricia Rickers
My dear friend was on the council years ago,
Gayen Wharton. I have lived here over thirty
years on Ramona Avenue, first street off of
21st South/1100 East.. Besides being the go
to street when 21st South is crowded. We
have Westminster students parking on the
street as well as students in a hurry traveling
down 1100 east and turning right on 17th
South even if there is no room for them to
turn. Now we have people on Ramona
Avenue creating apartments out of the old
houses (primary residence) when there is
already quite a number of apartments on
the street. This creates problems with
parking. Now what is a streetcar going to do
on 1100 East??
Julie Hall
Dear Soren: Thank you for your letter
informing us of the public hearing for the
Sugarhouse steetcar project. When my wife
& I first heard about the Sugarhouse
streetcar project, we thought that it seemed
like a quaint idea for relieving some of the
car traffic on 2100 So into the Sugarhouse
business district from the west. We never
thought, however, that it would have
enough justification for the $26 million price
tag since was not really supposed to be a
mass transit system, but just a tourist
attraction for Sugarhouse. We think that this
much of the project is all that can really be
justified. A streetcar system should not be
turned into a major transit system through
our neighborhood!! We see no reason to
extend this to the north or to the east. First
of all, to go with the council’s
recommendation to the north on Highland
Drive/1100 east would eliminate that street
from any car traffic. The street is just too
narrow! Is this part of the plan to turn this
street into pedestrian traffic only? If so, then
let it be just pedestrian traffic and not fill up
the street with tracks, wires, and noisy
trolley cars. Secondly, from your letter it
sounds like you are in favor of extending this
I want to express my support for the trax/rail
extension to continue up 2100 S. I am a
resident in the country club neigborhood
and would like to see more convenient
public transportation access. thanks, Jeremy
Rigby
Thank you for asking for my input. I am not
in favor of the 2100 s route. I think it would
be too congested. Julie
Silver
After reading the letter sent to my home by
Councilman Simonsen we want to let you
know that we strongly OPPOSE a rail spur
going up 2100 South. Every reason given for
extending this rail spur can be fixed by good
bus routes
Gil and Susan Coulam
Jeremy Rigby
Nancy Rawlinson & Jolene Kniffing
Both my sister (who lives with me--Nancy
Rawlinson) and I (Jolene Kniffing) who live at
1195 Whitlock Avenue, Salt Lake City, Utah
84106, expected and really want the TRAX
line to continue east just as Soren Simonsen
mentioned. When she said the plans were
for it to go north along Highland Drive to
17th South, our enthusiasm for it went down
the drain. We really need it to go east.
Thanks, Soren, for your very insightful
kindness in letting us know what is being
planned so that we can be part of our
government. I wish all government would do
this instead of assuming everyone agrees
with
decisions.
I haveitsowned
a home (2215 S 2000 E) in
Gerard Kies
Sugar House since 1976 and have been
delighted to see construction progress on
the first phase of the Streetcar Project.
Congratulations! I’m writing to let you
know that I strongly favor the eastbound
option over the northbound route for the
following reasons: Avoids more congestion
at 2100 S/1100 East—give the longsuffering businesses in that area a respite.
Enhances interface with other means of
public transportation. Connects with
recreational (Sugar House Park), educational
(Highland High) and business (several along
2100 South) destinations. Offers east bench
residents an attractive means to access
shopping options without fouling the air with
automotive emissions. Provides a logical
route for future phases of the project. Is less
expensive; certainly gives “a bigger bang
for the buck―than the northbound option.
It’s uphill to the east: Offers a pleasant
alternative to bicyclists (2100 South/2700
South are both narrow and heavily-travelled
by autos) and seniors (I invite any of you to
walk the hill along Wilmington—no
storefront businesses here, unlike along
1100 East—with me). The northbound
Maggie Kasten & Robert Mecklenburg
To the City Council: We wish to express our
support for the Sugar House Streetcar route
continuing east up 2100 S. towards Sugar
House Park. It seems to us this route would
serve the community to a greater extent
than proceeding north on 1100 East. The
park is a great destination and a cornerstone
for the Sugar House neighborhood. We think
it merits significant weight when considering
local public transportation. We also think the
2100 S. route would encourage many of us
East Bench residents to take the Streetcar to
the shops and restaurants farther west in
Sugar House and spur an expanded sense of
community. Thanks, Maggie Kasten & Robert
Mecklenburg Sugar House residents
Cameron Dolcourt
Dear City Council, Thank you for providing
the opportunity to provide comments on the
proposed streetcar line. I live in District 7 in
a condominium complex near Highland drive
and 2400 South. I read Councilman
Simonsen's well-reasoned letter and agree
that running the street car to 1300 east
provides far more benefits and far fewer
problems, the biggest of which being the
very narrow drive on 1100 east. The
streetcar will kill the businesses along that
road because nobody will want to or be able
to drive down the street. But taking the
streetcar to 1300 East will allow far greater
access to shopping, the park, and bus routes,
which will encourage better usage of mass
transit. Thank you for considering the voices
of those who this will affect. Sincerely,
Cameron Dolcourt
Natalie Angle
Dear Salt Lake City Council, I'm writing in
strong opposition to the proposed route of
the Sugar House streetcar turning north on
1100 East from 2100 South. Extending the
line from 2100 East to 1700 South is an
incredibly short-sighted move, and it's clear
to me that the person(s) who proposed this,
do not live in this area. North of 2100 South
is mostly RESIDENTIAL, and I do not see the
sense or value in running a streetcar line, on
an already narrow and congested road, to
go...where? Nowhere. It would take
incredible effort to make this streetcar arrive
at any meaningful destination as it would be
forced to travel further mostly through
residential neighborhoods for an extended
distance to get to any businesses.
Furthermore, it would change the dynamic
of a residential area to a more business feel,
which would make it far more dangerous for
bicycles and pedestrians in this charming and
pedestrian-friendly area. I support District
7's representative, Mr. Soren Simonsen, and
agree with him that the most reasonable,
logical, and forward-thinking route, would
run the line East-West, proceeding to Sugar
House Park, and beyond. The road can
accommodate it. There is already a shortage
Greg Goldberg
Thank you for the letter about the Sugar
House Streetcar. I agree to what you are
saying. Like others, I believe that 1100 E. is
also too narrow in that area to provide for
both car and streetcar (especially around the
post office), in addition to the things you
said about about who really needs the
service on the East side. Adjustment of the
bus services on 1100 E., like you stated, is
the easiest way to go for all of us. There is
just one problem with the possible
expansion: How is the One street car going
to be able to handle the expansion by itself.
Right now the current street car can handle
the back and forth shuttle with a decent
time allowance for scheduled trips, but an
expansion with just one, I believe, won't
work; not unless you add a side-track
halfway on the route for a Second Trolley to
move unto while the other passes by to keep
the scheduling normal. I believe the current
streetcar can go to Highland Dr. but should
not cross it (considering it is not much wider
different that 1100 E). People can then walk
the block and one-half to a second trolley on
2100 S.that is going up to and down from
the Parley's area (eventually). Currently, on
400 S., people have to walk at least that
Elise Boeke
Hello, I understand that the sugarhouse
street car route will be discussed at the
council meeting on April 23rd. I would like to
submit my comment that I believe the best
route for the street car should extend east
to Highland High or beyond and not go north
up 1100 east to 1700 South. As a user of
public transportation I believe this will be
more useful to a greater number of people. I
also shop, dine and recreate in the
sugarhouse area and feel anything that adds
congestion along 1100 east would not be in
the best interest for the sugarhouse area
overall. Thanks for the opportunity to
comment.
Jolene Kniffing
i am a sugarhouse resident and am against
extending the streetcar further east on 2100
south. i ride a bike to work and/or use the
bus, and feel extending the streetcar service
will only add to vehicle congestion and make
commuting via bicycle more dangerous.
thanks daines family
Yes, I would very much like to receive
periodic email updates about important City
events and issues from my Council Member.
Thanks!
Ryan & Diane Creamer
We are residents on the East end of
Sugarhouse and want to express concerns
regarding the proposed streetcar for 1100
East and the Sugarhouse area. It seems
unnecessary and wasteful to add additional
infrastructure when current mass transit
options are being grossly under utilized. We
feel that the proposed phase 2 and
additional proposed phases require
additional studies and that honoring the
wishes of the residents and business owners
is paramount, even if it means
discontinuation of future projects. Ryan &
Diane Creamer
Morgan Daines
Jeff Pickett, CPA/ABV
Dear Salt Lake City Council Members: I live in
District 7 and have lived here for nearly 30
years. I drive along 2100 South every day
and, consequently, am very familiar with the
traffic patterns along this street. I recently
received a letter from my council member,
Soren Simonsen regarding the proposal to
extend the line north along 1100 East and
his proposal to extend the line to Highland
High School. I am concerned about both of
these proposals. I am greatly concerned
about extending the Streetcar line beyond
McClelland Street and north along 1100 East
for the following reasons: (1) 1100 East is a
narrow street that is already extremely
congested. While a streetcar will reduce
some traffic, I do not believe it would reduce
traffic enough to offset the loss of one or
more lanes. (2) The 2100 S/1100 E
intersection is very busy. I drive through that
intersection everyday during rush hour and
cannot imagine how busy it would be with
lane restrictions due to a streetcar line. (3)
The destination serves a very limited
population (2,500 students at Westminster)
who need to travel a short distance to a
single destination. While I recognize that
there may be a need for these students, it
Gaylen Hasson
As a resident of Sugarhouse for over 15
years in the Rosslyn Heights neighborhood
and thinking seriously about the issue of
expanding the trolley from McClelland north
or east I would prefer to see the expansion
go north along 1100 East. I am not convinced
it even needs to go directly to Sugarhouse
Park - in other cities people seem ok with
walking a couple of blocks or more from
transit stops to points of interest. That being
said I would I would support postponing this
immediate decision until the city wide public
transportation plan is completed. Thank you,
Gaylen Hasson
Jen Colby
Dear Council Members, Recent news articles
and editorials have prompted this letter
about the Sugarhouse streetcar route
decision. My husband and I live in a dense,
walkable and bikeable neighborhood near
the University of Utah with great transit
options and bought our house specifically for
this reason. Sugarhouse is a frequent
destination by bus, bike, and car for
shopping, dining, visiting friends, and
recreation (yeah Sugarhouse Park!), so this
debate matters to us. Please note that these
are my personal comments and do not
reflect those of my employer or any civic
groups with which I may be affiliated. A
recent visit to downtown Sugarhouse to
check out the streetcar progress to date and
take a closer look at route options made it
clear to me that the eastward 2100 S
extension (whether on 2100 S from
McClelland or the option to reach 1300 E a
bit further south, then turn north to 2100,
then back east) is the best one for multiple
reasons. Streetcars should primarily be
designed as another component of an
integrated public transportation network.
They should not harm or otherwise interfere
with existing transportation facilities, such as
Kirk Huffaker
Dear Council Members, On behalf of Utah
Heritage Foundation, I submit the following
comments in regards to which option should
be the locally preferred alternative for the
next segment of the Sugar House Streetcar. I
believe that neither option will be good for
historic preservation because both options
will lead to the demolition of historic
buildings on an accelerated timeline. As
we’ve seen in the past, the installation of
each new transit line is followed by an
upzone along the entire corridor. We are
seeing this happen right now with the
currently proposed zoning changes along the
existing Sugar House Streetcar line. This will
undoubtedly lead to the demolition of
historic structures and the degradation of
existing single-family neighborhoods. If the
past holds true, the streetcar extension will
also mean the demolition of countless
historic structures. Along 1100 East, an
extension would mean the disintegration (if
not elimination) of the quaint character of
local businesses in former single-family
houses and in neighborhood commercial
scale structures. Single story commercial
landmarks as well as residential structures (R1-5000 and R-1-7000) in the solid residential
Jacquelyn havey
A STREETCAR TO NOWHERE: the 1100 east
streetcar extension. Westminster can run a
shuttle for its students to a nearby streetcar
station. a future 2100 south extension may
even provide a walkable alternative. I
support the 2100 south route for all the
factors cited by soren simonsen in his april
12 communication to district 7 residents.
Jacquelyn havey
Elizabeth Giraud, AICP
Dear City Council Members: I would like to
give you my opinion on the route of the
Sugar House streetcar. I don't know why we
need the streetcar, but if we have to spend
federal money, I vote for eastern route. The
businesses along 1100 East sell specialty
goods, for the most part. I'm sorry,
Councilman LaMalfa, but in response to your
comment in the SL Trib this a.m., I don't
understand why hair salons, cafes, dance &
yoga studios and a post office are any less
conducive to driving than any other
business. Many of the properties along 1100
E. are zoned Residential/Business (RB), the
purpose of which is to create vibrant small
scale retail, service, and office uses oriented
to the local area within residential
neighborhoods along higher volume streets.
Development is intended to be oriented to
the street and pedestrian, while
acknowledging the need for automobile
access and parking. You may be charmed by
the small scale now, but the streetcar will
entice development pressure for larger-scale
residential development, and the character
of the street and adjoining neighborhoods
will be ruined. I know that many City officials
would like to see the Shopko area developed
Greg Goldberg
Thank you for the letter about the Sugar
House Streetcar. I agree to what you are
saying. Like others, I believe that 1100 E. is
also too narrow in that area to provide for
both car and streetcar (especially around the
post office), in addition to the things you
said about about who really needs the
service on the East side. Adjustment of the
bus services on 1100 E., like you stated, is
the easiest way to go for all of us. There is
just one problem with the possible
expansion: How is the One street car going
to be able to handle the expansion by itself.
Right now the current street car can handle
the back and forth shuttle with a decent
time allowance for scheduled trips, but an
expansion with just one, I believe, won't
work; not unless you add a side-track
halfway on the route for a Second Trolley to
move unto while the other passes by to keep
the scheduling normal. I believe the current
streetcar can go to Highland Dr. but should
not cross it (considering it is not much wider
different that 1100 E). People can then walk
the block and one-half to a second trolley on
2100 S.that is going up to and down from
the Parley's area (eventually). Currently, on
400 S., people have to walk at least that
Troy Anderson
I feel that going east with the second phase
of the streetcar makes much more sense
than going north on Highland to 1700 South.
Going east will enable people to ride the
streetcar and hook onto bus lines that serve
Foothill Boulevard. Also, the amount a
businessess that will be serviced by the
eastward expansion will be much greater
than that of the the Highland proposal. How
will Highland work with a streetcar? Rezoning or any development in the 1700s
Highland area will be nearly impossible when
compared to and east line. Go East. TDA
Barry Angstman
Dear Council Members, I am writing this
email in support of the alternative route
(east to Sugar House Park - and on to
Highland High school). First, however I want
to THANK YOU for your efforts in adding
viable public transportation options to the
Sugar House area. As a long time resident of
the area, I am excited about the future and
the economic growth of the area. In the
short term, the many visitors to Sugar House
Park, and Highland High students would all
benefit from the east west route. As far as
the long term, I have often felt that public
transportation options are needed from our
east bench to the University, and Research
Park areas. Again, I appreciate your efforts,
and am in full support of the route put forth
by our Council Member Soren Simonsen.
Sincerely, Barry Angstman
Mary House
Sir, Short and to the point. I was against the
trolley to begin with. Now that it is here...at
least to Fairmont..I still do not like it. The
only extension that I think would work is to
bring the trolley to Highland on Sugarmont.
That street is one way going west. Close off
the street to make for a little plaza or
whatever. Use the bus on Highland/11th
East. There already is bus service on 2100
South. So, why would you disrupt businesses
and traffic to extend the trolley anywhere
else? I see this as some political move. It is
right up there with the proposed huge
theater downtown. Another thing, if you
want people to ride the trolley to TRAX and
then head to destinations where are the
parking lots in Sugarhouse? Every bit of
empty space is being built on. Mary House
Lauri Duncombe
Mr. Simonsen, I appreciate the letter that
was sent out regarding this issue. The letter
was dated 4/12. I received it in the evening
of 4/17. I work 10 hour days and getting to
the City and County Building is not viable.
The information regarding the proposal is a 2
hour down load over a high speed
connection. I do not feel that I have received
adequate time to fully digest all of the
information or adequate access to the
information. I would like to point out that
following 2100 South, West of 1300 East is
primarily businesses. A “street car―has
potential benefits to businesses. Headed
east on 2100 South from 1300 East is
primarily residential homes. A street car
does not benefit the homes, it only serves to
further devalue the property. There are no
major commerce areas on 2100 south. They
are relatively small businesses with a defined
area of service. I would like to see the
information to support someone taking a
streetcar up to Rite Aid or the relatively
small Fresh Market when there are other
shopping options that would be more locally
accessible. I live on 1700 East. The overflow
from 1300 East onto 1700 East during the
day has dramatically increased the noise
Gil and Susan Coulam
Dear Soren: Thank you for your letter
informing us of the public hearing for the
Sugarhouse steetcar project. When my wife
& I first heard about the Sugarhouse
streetcar project, we thought that it seemed
like a quaint idea for relieving some of the
car traffic on 2100 So into the Sugarhouse
business district from the west. We never
thought, however, that it would have
enough justification for the $26 million price
tag since was not really supposed to be a
mass transit system, but just a tourist
attraction for Sugarhouse. We think that this
much of the project is all that can really be
justified. A streetcar system should not be
turned into a major transit system through
our neighborhood!! We see no reason to
extend this to the north or to the east. First
of all, to go with the council’s
recommendation to the north on Highland
Drive/1100 east would eliminate that street
from any car traffic. The street is just too
narrow! Is this part of the plan to turn this
street into pedestrian traffic only? If so, then
let it be just pedestrian traffic and not fill up
the street with tracks, wires, and noisy
trolley cars. Secondly, from your letter it
sounds like you are in favor of extending this
Margaret Bond
Dear Council Members WE have lived in the
Sugarhouse area for over fifty years. I have
lived in Salt Lake all my life and have use
11th East as a main route to travel and shop
for over 65 years. The idea of a trolley on
11th is crazy. You would have to remove
trees and nearly all street parking for car
lanes and the trolley. Not to mention the
stupid bike lanes. The bikes don’t pay
property taxes as do cars and they don’t
pay license fees. Years ago all bikes were
licensed at fire stations by everyone. The
trolley if necessary would be much better
service as you said going on 21st South to
Highland High an beyond. Sugarhouse is a
very nice place to shop and walk around the
trolley just doesn’t make sense. Not
everyone needs or CAN use the trolley.
Buses are not even accessible to most
residents anymore. So not driving is an
option. Please DON’T put the trolley
north on 11th East from 21st South. Thank
You Margaret Bond
Margaret Bond
Dear Council The extension plan to run the
Trolley north on 11th East is the stupidest
idea you could do. The street to too narrow
and you would have to remove the trees and
all street parking. NOT EVERYONE walks to
get places to some the ONLY option is to
drive there then walk. Don’t ruin the
quaint sense the Sugarhouse now . The only
reasonable route would be up 21st South
and beyond to the East. Please really
consider the future of the area. Sincerely
Margaret Bond
David and Alice Hornbeck
Dear Sir, I am in your district and have
received your letter regarding the streetcar.
We are very disappointed with public
transportation in our 21st South 21 East
area. We feel strongly that it would behoove
the council to do what they can to achieve
decent public transportation service in our
area before you go fishing for federal funds
for this streetcar that appears more and
more like a development scheme and egofeather for the council. We are retired and
getting elderly as are many of our neighbors.
We would like to have public transport that
would get us down town within 45 minutes.
We would like to have public transport that
did not require us to transfer to do the 40 or
so blocks to get downtown and takes an
hour besides. We would like to help cut
down on air pollution in the valley. How is it
that the CEOs of UTA receive such
outrageous salaries and still utterly fail to
provide the city with decent public
transportation? How is it that the SLC
Council seems more excited about getting
federal funds than they do at helping the city
achieve decent public transportation?
Whichever way the streetcar goes or
however many blocks it continues will not
Ferris and Faye Hillyard
To: City Counilman Charlie Luke Please Do
Not extend streetcars in Sugar House. The
streets are too narrow. There is no real
purpose in extending the line. Twenty-first
South street is already too narrow with no
center turn lanes. Eleventh East is also a very
narrow street with just two lanes. We see no
real purpose in extending a line through
Sugar House. We both strongly vote NO.
Ferris and Faye Hillyard
Perry Frandsen
Dear Mr. Simonsen, First, let me thank you
for reaching out to the people, property
owners and businesses on 1100 East. I own a
retail/office building next to the Sugar House
Post Office and I appreciate your efforts to
include those living and working on 1100
East in the streetcar discussion. I have read
your letter of April 12, 2013 in its entirety
and thank you for your well thought-out
information and stand. I support your logic
and approach to the alignment issue and feel
that it is the East/West alignments
throughout the valley that are lacking and
need to be enhanced before consideration is
given to additional North/South mass transit
routes. Much was said in the recent
community council meeting about Berlin and
their streetcar system. I lived in Berlin and
used ALL mass transit there for
transportation throughout the city and
concluded that without the bus service being
developed, the rest of the system was
minimally useful. The streetcars on busy
streets became more of a problem to the
flow of traffic than they solved and in some
cases were redundant to bus service. In the
case of Sugar House, the more enhanced bus
service that is available to the area, the
Dennis R. and Annette L. Weight
My wife and I just recently received a letter
from Soren Simonsen, Salt Lake City Council
Member, District Seven requesting
community input for the future expansion of
a streetcar line to connect Sugarhouse
District. May we say that we agree with
every comment made by Mr. Simonsen.
Annette and I both feel it would be a big
mistake to have the streetcar running on
Highland Drive and proceeding on 1100 East
to 1700 South. In fact we both laughed that
anyone would even consider such a thing.
Has anyone tried to get to the Post-office in
1100 East? It is a nightmare. Why would you
even consider putting a a streetcar on a road
that is already so tiny, cars have difficulty
trying to move bumper-to-bumper to get to
the 21st stop light. Has anyone tried getting
out of the Post-office on to 1100 East? Add a
streetcar and you might have to relocate the
Post-office Having lived at our 1500 East
residence since 1980, we have seen many
changes to the Sugar-house area, that we
feel we know the area and what is best for
it. We saw homes torn down to make room
for the shopping area that has spread
Northward to 21st South. These business are
great. We love having them. However, have
Bill and Maryanne Murray
Soren: As a resident of the Parley's Way
neighborhood for 38 years, I appreciate your
recent letter regarding the above referenced
issue. My recommendations agree with you
that the line should extend East and not
North. An 11th East extension will be a
nightmare for consumers; commuters; and
residents of the area. Why go North when
the East part of the city has no
transportation other than the poor bus
service? In addition, 11th East would have to
be widened considerably and businesses
would suffer a great deal of lost revenue. It
is already difficult to negotiate traffic on
11th East near 21st South. On another issue,
we would like to register our disappointment
in the new fee for lighting that is now a part
of our Water and Sewer bill each month. For
us, the amount is about $4.00 per month.
We were encouraged to add the light poles
on our street as a beautification program for
our neighborhood, for which we paid $300
for the installation of the light pole and the
required power bill each month. This
assessment should have considered the
extra tax (that is what it is) burden to the
residents of the city. When does it end?
What kind of slush fund is this? With the
lynda J Brown
I can't make the meeting but I would like you
to consider the extension to 13th E. 1100
East is already congested and dangerous in
several places. It just makes sense to me to
keep the neighborhood feel around 2100 S.
!3th still is close to Westminister and much
closer to their new dorms. It just seems like
a great fit to go closer to Sugarhouse Park
and shopping also. It would be nice to
eventually take it to Highland where the
students there could use it also. Might make
it easier for their lunchtime runs to
Sugarhouse. Smile. Thanks for considering
avoiding the 1100 E option which would
cause more congestion and change the feel
of that area too much. Sincerely, lynda J
Brown
Mark Vlasic
I have read the reports and studies, including
the summaries of public input. I would hope
that the city council refrains from turning
this into a political issue, and embraces the
recommendations of the consultants,
extending the streetcar line along 1100 East
to 1700 South. The study was well
formulated and the public preference clearly
supports the recommended route.
mechel kawai
Please support the route that goes to
Foothill because it makes it possible for us
here (near the Zoo) to access the mass
transit system and Foothill is wide enough
for it. Don't mess up 11th East, which has a
lovely cozy feeling to it. amal kawar
Richard Hendron
Dear Councilman Simonsen- Having lived
and commuted in Sugar House for more
than 30 years, the proposed route of the
street car extension along 11th East was
quite surprising. Today I drove through that
area again, just to confirm that the roads
and intersections in the area of 2100 South
and 1100 East are too narrow and
constricted to support that project. There is
just too much congestion there today for a
safe and pleasant shopping or driving
experience. A route eastward along 2100
South is by far the best route for
construction and support of a wider traffic
corridor. Thank you for both your letter and
you recent article in the newspaper
suggesting a sensible alignment other than
that recommended by the consultants.
Sincerely, Richard Hendron
Sally Barraclough
As a member of the SH Community Council
and a citizen of District 7, I have had the
opportunity to attend many public outreach
meetings regarding the future expansion of
the Sugar House Street Car project. I have
listened carefully to pros and cons of both
the 11th East and 21st South alignments. I
believe the best alternative route is North on
11th East for the following reasons. • 11th
East to 17th South is already a viable
business and housing corridor with many
retail shops, restaurants, and housing units.
The Sugar House Station Post Office is one
the busiest in the city. Putting the Street Car
on 21st South in order to spur future
economic growth would ignore an already
established area of Sugar House. • An
11th East route will relieve the auto
congestion in the Sugar House business
district. This is critical as we are adding many
housing units near this route. • The 11th
East route will be a safer route for
pedestrians using the Street Car. With one
travel lane in each direction north and south,
11th East has a naturally slower traffic flow.
21st South has multiple lanes of traffic with
more potential for pedestrians to cross in an
unsafe manner to get on the Street Car. •
Ilene C. Ferris
Dear Council Members, I think it makes so
much sense to extend the Street Car north
past Sugar House Park because of so much
high density housing and the very poor bus
service we now have in the area of Sugar
House and 21 & 21. Ilene C. Ferris
Gail & Phil Clingenpeel
We agree with Council Member Soren
Simonsen that the streetcar extension
should NOT be run along 1100 East.
Continuing the line to 1300 East is the most
logical and best route. Eleventh East is
already difficult enough to navigate,
especially during the rush hours. Thirteenth
East would connect to many more stores
that have greater customer usage than the
ones along Eleventh East. Thank you for your
consideration. Gail & Phil Clingenpeel
Cindy Stroh
It seems to us that the idea of placing public
transportation down 1100 East is a really
bad idea. The street is already small and
congested. We have lived on 1100 East and
own property on 1100 East and it is
practically impossible to enter the street
from the driveways the way it is. It is far
more reasonable because of stream of traffic
accessing Sugarhouse Park and Highland
High School to use Option #2!
Trudy Oliver, Ph.D.
Dear Salt Lake City Council, I am writing
about a very important issue to me, which I
would love to talk about in person at the
April 23rd City Council meeting, but I am
unable to attend due to a faculty dinner with
the University of Utah via my work. Over the
last few weeks, I have heard about the
possible extension of a streetcar along 1100
East. I live at 1233 Kensington Ave, so this
would directly impact my travel on 1100 East
which is already congested, but slightly less
so than my other alternative, 1300 East. I
can summarize my feelings by saying that I
whole-heartedly agree with Mr. Soren
Simonsen who recently sent a letter to
District Seven. In short, a streetcar along
1100 East is being called "the Streetcar to
Nowhere" among my friends and neighbors.
This would be an incredibly short-sighted
move because it would take incredible effort
to make this streetcar arrive at any
meaningful destination as it would be forced
to travel mostly through residential
neighborhoods. The best, more forwardthinking alternative would be to route the
streetcar along 2100 South, which would
have attractive destinations like Sugarhouse
Park, Highland High School, businesses along
John Bouzek
Good Morning Charlie, Hope all is well with
you and your family. I am contacting you
regarding the future of public transit in the
21st and 21st neighborhood. From my
understanding the future of a trolley line a
or light rail spur is being decided at this time.
Can you tell me how I find out more
information about this and how I can make
my voice heard. With the ever growing
congestion on Foothill Blvd., 2100 East, and
Walmart's contribution to the congestion, I
believe a Trolley line running up 2100 South
would help alleviate some of these issues. I
also believe this spur would foster continued
growth for the 21st and 21st business
district, and the other small businesses
flanking 2100 South. It is wise for us to look
forward to solve the problems facing us
today. I look forward to your guidance.
Thanks, John Bouzek Blue Plate Diner
steve alder
Charlie, thanks for coming to the Foothill
Focus meeting and sharing the information
on the Sugar House street car proposal. I
have a studio at the Rockwood building that
is south of the monument. I get there pretty
often,. I have also reviewed the circulation
study. My first reaction is that this phase 2c
route is proceeding before there has been
much public debate about the circulation
plan. Has it been adopted? I think most
people are not aware of the traffic diet
proposed for 21st South and (just like on
Sunnyside) there will be wailing when it is
imminent. Other aspects of the circulation
study need to be considered too. The
intersections at 1100 and 2100 is very bad
and the effect of creating a monument open
area and removing the right turn lane will
not only increase the congetion but reduce
parking. (Parking is a real problem right now,
due to the closing of the old Granite
Furniture lot and the loss of street parking
surrounding that block) I have no idea if the
parking in the future will be as bad but if it is
that will decrease the attraction of the area.
One of the ciruclation study options was a
new street connecting Willmington across
1100 east (from the Boys and Girls Club
-Jackie Solon
I’m in favor of the East-West spur of the
sugarhouse line to highland high. It’s a
much more future-oriented plan. Thanks for
your thoughtful email, -Jackie Solon
Noreen McDonald
Hello Mayor and Council Members-- I am
very concerned about the plan to extend the
streetcar line along Highland Drive/1100
East. This corridor is very narrow and
congested-- particularly where it intersects
2100 South--and therefore does not seem
like a reasonable option for a streetcar line.
Why not extend the line east along the
southern edge of Sugar House Park and then
have it turn north along 1700 East? This
scenic alternative would directly serve the
businesses of Sugar House, Fairmont and
Sugar House park- goers, Highland High
School students and it would put
Westminster College within easy walking
distance. Please explain your vision of
placing a streetcar along this Highland
Drive/1100 East. Thank you, Noreen
McDonald Voter & Sugar House resident
Ashley Eddington Hoopes
Hi Charlie, I agree with you on this one. With
the Wilmington option is there any way to
joint venture with PRATT and the
Sugarhouse draw and trail plans. I hope to
see you at the meeting. Maurine
Agree with you on bringing the line east. I
would be happy to help garner support for
this idea. Thanks for all you do. Ashley
Eddington Hoopes
Brent Maxfield
Charlie, Thank you for the update. I agree
with your analysis. I agree with you. I think it
is looking more into the future having the
east extension. Brent Maxfield
Andrew Beelen
Charlie, I agree 100% with your position on
the Sugarhouse street car. Keep up the good
work! Andrew Beelen
Maurine Bachman
Michael Jaffe
I would agree that going to highland high
would be great. Westminster 20 year olds
can walk 3 blocks easily. Michael Jaffe MD
Physical
Medicine
Rehabilitation
I agree with
every and
single
point you have
Judi Short
made. In fact, it sounds like the conversation
I had with Jill, although I did say it was shortsighted not to include the east line, even
though it might not be the first priority. I
immediately regretted that, but decided it
could be left alone until we hear how April
23 comes out. (I'm going to need a Twitter
lesson before then!) I think she is hell-bent
for having a shovel ready project in case
Tiger or some other Federal transportation
funds become available. Do you have four
votes? or three votes and someone we can
lean on? I'm going to try to rally the
developers and get them to write in even if
they don't come on April 23. You are
welcome to come to our April 3 SHCC
meeting to hear public comments, we are
trying to rattle the bushes and get folks to
show up. We are also having a combined
SHCC Land Use Committee and SHCC
Transportation Committee on April 15 at 6
p.m. at Sprague, to perhaps come up with
more details as we refine our position. The
SHCC will take a straw poll on a number of
questions, counting every person in
attendance, rather than just the trustees. Let
me know what else I can do. Judi
Noreen McDonald
Thank you, Charlie! I am in hearty
agreement with your ideas and have posted
my support on the city's website. I hope to
see you on the 23rd. Best, Noreen
George Chapman
Proposed note to go to 11th E. on streetcar
route As promised, I am enclosing a
proposed note that I will pass around the
area. Most of the 60+ business owners that I
talked to in the last week on 11th E. were
against the route because they did not
believe that they could survive construction.
I did pass along to SLC, individuals who could
better address construction mitigation loans
but in general most small businesses are not
optimistic about working to survive the
construction. Businesses that are just barely
surviving are concerned about the 2 block
traffic backup now and expect traffic hassles
to get worse before they get better. I did
complain to many that the streetcars are
presently set as Siemens S70 vehicles which
are like TRAX. Robin Hutcheson pointed out
that the vehicles are sold as streetcars and
light rail. And.... they super duper promised
that the streetcars on future routes would
not be like TRAX or Siemens S70. Robin
Hutcheson has diligently sold the position of
the eventual 11th E. routing. But I still
believe that without a devil's advocate
position pointing out the problems, the
decision will be flawed. It concerns me that
the other side has not been given enough
Jill A. Thomas
Hi Charlie, First, thanks for being such an
excellent council member for my district. At
times, you seem to be the only voice of
reason on the city council! I'm sure you've
read Luke Garrott's op-ed piece in today's
Trib. It's spot on. I agree with Mr. Garrott before any more plans are made for the
Sugar House trolley, there must be a master
plan. Extending the trolley down 11 East will
have a huge impact on residents in our area.
The idea needs to be studied carefully, and
future plans must be made with plenty of
citizen input. Ramrodding this through is just
plain wrong. I hope you support this idea.
Kind regards, Jill A. Thomas
Jill Thomas
I would be thrilled for you to share my email
with your colleagues. I read your idea about
extending the trolley via Wilmington/Shopko
thru Sugar House Park to 1700th E and
avoiding the busy 1300E and 1100E
intersections on 2100S. It's a brilliant idea! I
would love to be able to walk 3 blocks and
have access to TRAX. I believe that others in
my neighborhood would agree. Mayor
Becker and the city council need to
understand that residents of Sugar House
need to be able to drive their cars to the
businesses in Sugar House without facing a
traffic nightmare. While I'm an avid walker
and frequent bike rider, I can't walk to
Smith's from my house and tote home a
week's worth of groceries. I can't walk or
bike to Fiddler's for dinner, unless I leave my
husband at home - he's not a walker or
biker. Traffic is a mess now; closing lanes to
add a trolley could create complete gridlock.
I love the Sugar House businesses and would
hate to have to head east to shop and dine. I
suggest that the mayor and city council visit
the area at 12 noon and 5 pm. It's an eyeopener with all the traffic, but it may help
them realize the importance of keeping all
traffic lanes intact. I will definitely attend the
Patricia Franz
Hello, I live at 1776 Hollywood Ave, just 2
blocks north from 2100 South. I just received
a flyer showing the proposed expansion of
the Sugar House Streetcar. I vote NO for
adding a 2100 South (starting at 1100 East
and heading east). My reasons are as
follows: 1. The impact this will have on the
neighborhood alone will be horribly
detrimental to home owners in that area.
Our homes will instantly decrease in value.
2. What about the cost to widen the street
from 1700 E and up towards Parleys. (Our
tax dollars at work? Cut the elderly or school
funding?) 3. How many homes will be
affected along 2100 South in that stretch? If
you have surveyed the area you know 2100
South goes from quite wide, beginning at
1300 E, but at 1700 E it becomes a one lane
road. 4. Are houses going to be condemned
so they can be sold at a lower price? 5. Are
you going to cut off a major portion of the
homeowners front property to make room
for Trax and car traffic? These are just a few
of the concerns many of us in this area have
regarding your proposal.. Also, how do I get
a say in what goes on at Salt Lake City
Council? I am very interested having a voice
in what happens in my area. Thank you,
MaryLou Crawford
Roger Lager
Hi Charlie! I am a grateful resident of District
Six – grateful because you are our
representative! Our wonderful Bonneville
Hills Community Council Chair, Ellen Reddick,
forwarded your message about the Sugar
House Streetcar plans. I’ve read your
proposal and agree wholeheartedly with
your observations. Please add my vote of
support as one of your grateful constituents.
Thanks again! MaryLou Crawford
Test Comment
MaryLou Crawford
Hi Charlie! I am a grateful resident of District
Six – grateful because you are our
representative! Our wonderful Bonneville
Hills Community Council Chair, Ellen Reddick,
forwarded your message about the Sugar
House Streetcar plans. I’ve read your
proposal and agree wholeheartedly with
your observations. Please add my vote of
support as one of your grateful constituents.
Thanks again! MaryLou Crawford
Jeanie McAllister
Dear Charlie, I'm with you! Yes on a 21st
South extension for the Sugarhouse street
car for all the reasons and more you listed.
(The proposed 11th East extension serves no
short-term or long-term purpose--who are
these "planners?") You're absolutely right
about the east bench being "terribly
underserved!" Wish I could be at the April
23rd meeting, but I'll be in Houston instead.
Your District 6 Communications are always
very helpful and I read them word for word.
You most often take stands I support which
makes me doubly glad I voted for you when
you were unknown to me but highly
recommended by a former city councilman.
Many thanks for keeping us informed and
representing us so admirably. Best regards,
Jeanie McAllister
J Bennion
Mr Luke The street car idea if it will be like
San Francisco is extremely stupid in our
winter environment. California spends over
8 million dollars settling lawsuits over its
trolley system. Buses are more suited for
residential/ business areas. because they can
maneuver around and move with traffic. It is
to bad buses have such a bad stigma that
people won't ride them. More should be
done to promote that ridership because
routes can be changed as needed. Trolley
lines can't. There should be no trolley on
21st south at all or on11th or 13th east
Traffic is way to bad their already and will
only get worse. J Bennion
Guilkey, James
Hi Charlie, My .02 on the streetcar. I've
appreciated your fiscal realism on other of
the Mayor's projects. While I haven't really
seen the plans for paying for this, but I
certainly hope that it isn't on the back of
another property tax increase (and yes, I
consider the theater downtown to be a tax
increase, not a resource shift as Ralph would
like us to view it). Also, if the extension does
go forward, I hope that the affected business
owners get proportionally more
consideration in weighing the options
(sounds like a done deal, actually). I spoke to
a business owner who was protesting the
1100 East corridor. For those folks, it isn't
just a matter of this being a nifty, quaint or
convenient amenity for the city, it affects
their livelihood, that has to be given
additional gravity over the rest of us. At least
some of them clearly don't want it. Thanks,
Jim
John March
Be practical – the street car is not needed,
will cause vehicle congestion, will improve
what? All the current systems are losing
money and we (politicians) continue this.
It’s
time to be
practical.
Marchthe
I am adamantly
opposed
to John
extending
Jan Brittain
Sugar House Streetcar line north on 11th
East. I think it should continue east to 1300
East and stop right there around Shopko. To
me, the whole thing is a giant waste of
taxpayer money. We already have bus
service that is too infrequent and too
expensive. Instead of building more, why
isn’t the money being used to make the
current system usable? We’re not
Portland. If I wanted to live in Portland I
would. STOP IMPORTING PORTLAND TO
SALT LAKE CITY. We have our own unique
character and we’re a great city. As is.
That said, if the City Council is determined to
extend the Sugar House Streetcar, I wish
they would consider a streetcar/trolley
bus/jitney bus that travels between Sugar
House and Foothill Drive on 2100
South/Parley’s Way. Ideally the route
would go from the streetcar terminal, past
Sugar House Park, up Parley’s Way to
Stringham, then up Stringham to Foothill
Drive, down Foothill Drive to Parley’s
Way and back to Sugar House. This route
would serve Walmart customers and
employees, Foothill Place apartments,
Foothill Family Clinic and the office buildings
Sheila O'Driscoll
Councilman Luke: Please be advised that a
good number of residential property owners
along 2100 south in the SHCC Dilworth
district will be encouraged to contact you
and other city council members regarding
the possibility of a streetcar line on 2100
South headed east from the S H Business
District. Many are not happy about not being
aware of this possibility and do NOT favor a
streetcar on this street between 13th east
and 23rd east. Sincerely, Sheila O'Driscoll
Roger Jones
Dear Mr. Luke, Thanks for the message re.
the streetcar route. I attended the
community council meeting this week at the
Foothill Library. In your absence Søren
Simonsen presented his information and
preferences for the potential continuation of
the streetcar route. After your mailed
message, I sent the following to the city
council as a whole: "City Council: Please
consider that the most useful continuation
of the Sugar House Streetcar route would
track east up 21st South, then further to the
business area up Parley's Way which now
includes medical & commercial offices,
Wallmart, Cowboy Grub, and a dense
apartment complex. On the way it could
serve Highland High School and the many
businesses strung out along along that route.
Roger Jones 2720 St. Mary's Way Salt Lake
City, Utah 84108-2040 801 5819576" Thanks
for your efforts, Roger Jones
Lee and Karen Matthews
Thank you for the mailing you sent regarding
the public hearing on April 23. It is very
informative, easy to read and understand
and very much appreciated. We are not in
favor of the recommended route along 1100
East. It will destroy the small businesses that
have struggled along that street. While it
does serve Westminster, the benefit ends
there. We recommend No. 2 on your
message and agree that it would be a
possible opening for future expansion. Lee
and
Yes, Karen
it doesMatthews
and it has needed to do for
Sheila O'Driscoll
years. One of the first meetings I had with
the planner assigned to Sugar House when I
became a trustee was on the lousy way the
city gave notice to the residents about
changes that the city wanted to implement.
There are two things that I have found that
people agree on no matter what other
differences that they have: 1. They want to
feel and be safe in their homes and
neighborhoods. 2. They want their personal
property respected. I realize that it seems to
be the popular thing in city government now
to "urbanize" the downtown as well as the
Sugar House Business District. I personally
don't like an urban lifestyle. I've witnessed
for 19 years the great ideas that people want
to bring into a community and have too
many times seen the failure to deliver in the
end. I was very open minded and naive when
I became a trustee. Now, I have a much
more skeptical attitude about the reality
that we will actually receive the proposed
and expected benefits promised. I ask a lot
more questions, am not embarrassed to
appear stupid, and expect objective,
valid,reliable and detailed answers from
those who think their ideas are going to be
D.B. Bell
Roger Lager
I appreciate your mailer and discussion on
this issue. I am in agreement that the 2100
Eastbound would make more sense both in
the long term and in the construction issues.
My concern all along with the 1100 East
route is the width and congestion along
1100 East. That street is already too narrow
and by adding the rail line will certainly
impact this existing issue. Likewise with
suggesting the Westminster College as an
ending or destination point. Most people
attending Westminster, live at the student
housing (some of which would be very close
to the 2100 route anyway) or they are using
vehicles to commute and I seriously doubt
the streetcar line would significantly impact
the commuter students. However, many
Highland high school students currently and
will continue to need public transportation
coming from both south & west of the high
school. Since these students reside and are
citizens or children of actual city citizens, I
would offer that providing a service to them
is of a greater need than providing this
service to students of a private academic
institution. Likewise, I agree with your
assessment that Sugarhouse Park is a
destination that should receive priority. That
Test Comment
Sheila O'Driscoll
Charlie, Thank you for taking me seriously. I
have a number of neighbors that are Not
happy even with the idea of it going to 17th
East. There has been way too little input
from the people who live in this area thus
far! I will read the notice you mailed out and
have my concerns written ASAP. I have lived
on the same corner in this neighborhood for
over 26 years. I have been actively
participating on the Sugar House Community
Council for 19 years. If this proposal was for
a street in front of your house would you
consider the way this has been handled
appropriate? I hope to meet you Tuesday.
Sheila O'Driscoll Sent from my iPad > Sheila,
> > Thanks for your email. I look forward to
the emails and would be happy to talk to
people as well. > > I, too, have a lot of
concerns with the meager public outreach
and involvement on the streetcar issue. That
is why I am going out of my way to
communicate the alignment possibilities and
encourage people to voice their opinions
before or at the city council meeting on
Tuesday. Without some members of the
council raising these issues with our
constituents the decision would have been
reached with very little public input.
Byron Gibbs
The printed announcement that the north
extension through the 13th East St.
bottleneck "is the recommended route" is a
demonstration of feeble thinking. That
section of the 13th East North South
principle valley long highway is already a
nightmare for traffic at busy times. To add a
street car to this bottle necked traffic seems
almost insane to me. What is the
competence of the people doing the long
range planning for the Salt Lake City
Council?.....for Salt Lake County street
planning....for Utah State highway planning?
Or is it a competition of whims of the various
residents that will be affected? What's the
process? Byron Gibbs
Alice Marsh
Charlie Luke, Personally I think we ought to
take a break and open the proposed line and
see how it fits the area. Why do we have to
continue the line right now? Is there some
emergency. Like you commented, 2100
South and 11th East are so congested now
you can hardly get through to where you
want to go. Now with eating places opening
in the old Granite Furniture there is
practically no parking in the area. As to
continuing the line up 11th East to 17th
South--just where were they thinking of
putting the line--they would have to close
11th E because there is no space now let
alone with a streetcar line in the center.
And, what for? There is nothing on 17th
South to go to. I feel like I'm not making too
much sense, but I can't imagine what a mess
it would be even to extend the line up to
Sugarhouse Park or Highland High. You asked
us to respond and I hope my comments help
in your quest. Sincerely, Alice Marsh
aimee adamson
Dear Councilman Luke: I strongly support the
extension of the Sugarhouse Streetcar up
Wilmington to Sugarhouse Park. I do NOT
support the extension up 1100 East. 1100
East is already very congested; adding the
streetcar will only make a bad situation
worse. Sugarhouse Park is an important
destination; having the streetcar stop two
blocks short of the park greatly diminishes
the utility of the streetcar. I appreciate your
interest and proactive involvement in this
issue. Sheldon Furst
Hey, Just want to put my vote in for the
route going up 21st south toward 17th east!
aimee adamson
LEXIE POLLICK
In today's paper there were comments from
the city's west side. They must not
understand local traffic. Several times a
week I travel 11th East and 9th East to 21st
S. and back to 17th So. This is what I see:
Eleventh through 17th So. is OK. From there
to 21st S. is simply awful. I generally turn
down a side street and weave around to my
destination. Twenty First is horrible and
dangerous. I have seen many rear-enders
going both E and West. This is from 13th E
pretty much to 7th E. Travelling north, I
generally take a side street to 17th S. and
then go East. For what it's worth, I don't see
how 21st S. or 11th E. could handle any
more traffic be it autos, bikes, pedestrians
etc., especially with all the new condos going
up. We have given up too much space to
bikers--I did see one yesterday! They don't
observe traffic laws and are a danger to
themselves and drivers.
Sheldon Furst
Mark Williamson and Debie Williamson
Sterling Furniture Company 2051 South 1100
East Salt Lake City, Utah 801 467-1579 A
Heritage of Quality Furniture Since 1875 Salt
Lake City Council 451 South State Street,
Room 304 PO Box 145476 Salt Lake City UT
84114-5476 April 20, 2013 Dear Council
Member, We appreciate your efforts in
participating in our city’s government
and sacrificing the time and energy to serve
on the Salt Lake City Council. We appreciate
your dedication to make Salt Lake City a
viable and prosperous community. At this
time we would ask you to take the time to
consider our feelings concerning Sugar
House and the 1100 East Streetcar Whereas
Sterling Furniture Company is a property
owner and a member of the Sugar House
Community and has been doing consistently
engaged in business on the corner of 2100
South and 1100 East for over 70 years. And
whereas Sterling Furniture Company has
participated actively in the Sugar House
Business District and have actively
participated as members of the Sugar House
Merchants Association. And whereas, Mark
currently serves is the CFO, and Debie has
directed the Annual Sugar House Art Festival
since 2005. And whereas Sterling Furniture
Mary Jane Chase
Thank you for the opportunity to express my
concerns. I disagree with your position, but
unfortunately will be unable to attend the
open meeting. I'm responding to the points
you raised in the flyer that was sent to my
home. 1) With the completion of the Draw
this year, access to Sugar House Park would
become easier from 11th east. People will
no longer have to cross 13th east to access
the park and will be able to get to the 11th
east extension easily. 2) There is no
extension that won't have some traffic
issues. With sufficient ridership, the
streetcar will reduce traffic, not add to it, as
it takes out unnecessary traffic in this area.
3) This is true, but connecting the streetcar
to the shopping areas of 9th and 9th and
hopefully eventually 400 south makes more
sense than creating another deadend for
public transportation. 4) But this is just as
good a reason to go on 1100 East. 5) We
have a generation of potential users right
now at Westminster College. A careful study
of where Highland High students live will
demonstrate that there are far fewer
potential users there than at Westminster.
This has the added potential of relieving
traffic as 100s of faculty, students, and staff
Mary Spaid
Hello - We moved to Salt Lake City in 1997.
We used to be able to walk a very short
distance to mulitiple bus stops (on 2300 East
and 2100 South). Now, we need to go up to
Foothill Blvd or 2100 East. The neighbor's
kids (older than mine) always took the bus to
school. My kids used to take TRAX to school
(West High School). They only transfered to
the bus as a last resort, since it meant a 15
minute walk with their backpacks at the end
of what became a very long day. Then the
University TRAX line stopped going directly
to the Arena, so they don't take TRAX at all.
We drive. Just once, could our neighborhood
be conveniently served by public
transportation? Please choose 2100 South
for the Sugarhouse Streetcar. I would love to
not have to drive (and park!) along this
congested route to shop and dine. thank you
Mary Spaid
MARILYN HELEN MARTIN
I STRONGLY vote for ,"Possible Routes"
exactly, 2100 South and 2300 East or to
Foothill village....Foothill Village is a great
idea. Reason: The east area has no option
regarding streetcar activity. We cannot park
at the U and it would be almost impossible
to walk down to Sugarhouse park or below.
Please listen to my request. This is an
important issue. I am sorry I cannot attend
the meeting because of surgery previously
scheduled. Please let my voice be heard.
Margaret
Hi, Charlie, it's your friend and supporter,
Margaret Davidson, begging you to not allow
a Trax line on 2300 East. Never. Never.
Never. House valued would be zero. I think it
shouldn't go on 2100 East, either. If it goes
up 2100 South, which makes the most sense;
it should go all the way to Foothill Drive and
along Foothill. If it goes up 1700 South-again, ruining house values--it should go to
Foothill.
Margaret
Mr SorenThanks.
Simonsen,
Mr Charlie Luke Just
Ana Holt
recently, about a week ago, we received
mention that the city council is attempting
to implement a street car on our street 2100
S 1700 East. We are a young couple raising
three young children. We have nothing
against public transportation, in fact, my
husband and I are very happy customers of
TRAX and UTA, we own only one car, so we
ride the bus on our street on daily basis. It is
for this main reason that we see no need for
extra public transportation right on our
street, we already have four different routes
relatively near our area routes 21, 223, 220,
and 213 for those who need public
transportation like us. We don’t
understand your intentions. Why to waste
funds on areas that are already covered by
UTA? Would it not be easier to look for ways
to enhance the service they already provide
without altering the peace on our
neighborhood street which we already have
to endure living on a busy street? We
appreciate your good intentions for
improving public transportation but feel that
implementing the street car on 2100 South
and 1700 East and farther east not only is
unneeded but will bring a negative impact
Mary Beacco
Charlie, I would like to see the streetcar go
up 2100 S . It would also be nice if 2100S
were more bike friendly, but that is probably
a long way off. Thank you. Mary Beacco
Mark Morris, PLA, LEEDâ„¢AP
Council Members, On Thursday, April 11 the
Sugar House Park Authority discussed at
length in our monthly public meeting the
recent re-visiting of the Phase 2 Sugar House
Streetcar alignment. I've attached a letter
from our board discussing our concerns with
the 2100 South (East) alignment. As a board,
we would like it to be clear among decision
makers that the Sugar House Park Authority
is in no way behind the push to bring the
streetcar east on 2100 South adjacent to the
park. While this letter does not advocate for
any specific alignment, it merely states our
concerns about the streetcar and the
development pressure that would be
introduced to the Park if the East alignment
is selected. Thank you, -- Mark Morris, PLA,
LEEDâ„¢AP
Mark Morris
Salt Lake City Mayor's Office 12 April 2013
P.O.Box 145474 Salt Lake City, UT
84114–5474 Dear Mayor Becker, On
behalf of the Sugar House Park Authority
(SHPA) a 501c3 non-profit, we write this
letter to weigh in on recent public
discussions of the preferred alignment for
Phase 2 of the Sugar House Streetcar
project. Sugar House Park was created in
1957 under a farsighted organizational
structure that enabled an independent, nonprofit entity, the Sugar House Park
Authority, to own and operate the park
independent of political influence. Our board
is composed of volunteer, private citizens
who act as stewards of the park, and work to
preserve Sugar House Park as a valuable
community open space. The central mission
of the Sugar House Park Authority is to
preserve and maintain the quality of Sugar
House Park in perpetuity, and we feel that
the recent push for a reconsideration of a
streetcar alignment on 2100 South directly
adjacent to Sugar House Park will have a
negative effect on the ability of future Park
Authority boards to preserve Sugar House
Park in its present condition. From the
outset of the public process to analyze
Megan L. Taylor
Hi, I'm a SLC resident who lives in the 2100 E
& 2100 S neighborhood. I'd like to advocate
for the streetcar to come east, up 2100 S. I
agree with Councilman Luke in that the
consultant's analysis was undermined by not
factoring in the Park. Further, I belive my
neighborhood is ripe for pedestrian friendly
redevelopment. Within the last few years, a
large condo building has gone in near
Dillworth elementary - condo owners are
more likely to use public transport than
homeowners I would think. There are
currently two large parcels awaiting for
someone to buy them up and redevelope
them - on 2100 East, between Dilworth and
the Blue Plate, where the Works used to be
and on 2100 South where Formosa Grill used
to be. With the streetcar coming towards us,
I think developers would be much more
inclined to come up with an eco
friendly/multi use building design
(retail/office/condo) if there were an
assurance it would be served by a
convenient streetcar. Finally, my husband
made a good point that it's much easier to
bike north/south in sugarhouse because
there aren't significant hills to climb. It's
much harder to bike east/west for those
Violet Corkle
I read the flyer you mailed about the street
car routes. I agree completely agree with
your reasoning on the east extension going
up 2100 S. Violet Corkle
Mary Spaid
Hello - We moved to Salt Lake City in 1997.
We used to be able to walk a very short
distance to mulitiple bus stops (on 2300 East
and 2100 South). Now, we need to go up to
Foothill Blvd or 2100 East. The neighbor's
kids (older than mine) always took the bus to
school. My kids used to take TRAX to school
(West High School). They only transfered to
the bus as a last resort, since it meant a 15
minute walk with their backpacks at the end
of what became a very long day. Then the
University TRAX line stopped going directly
to the Arena, so they don't take TRAX at all.
We drive. Just once, could our neighborhood
be conveniently served by public
transportation? Please choose 2100 South
for the Sugarhouse Streetcar. I would love to
not have to drive (and park!) along this
congested route to shop and dine. thank you
Mary Spaid
Joan Brown
Thank you for the information regarding the
Sugar House Streetcar we recently received
in the mail! I especially appreciated the map
of the purposed routes. Now, having said
that, I have to ask...ARE YOU PEOPLE NUTS??
I am no less than appalled at the
unbelievable idea of spending millions of
dollars to run a Streetcar that is nothing
more than a "novelty"!!!! I am all for
improvements and beautifying the area! But
let's use some common sense!! How can you
even consider running up 2100S? How can
you even consider running a Streetcar on
1300E or 1100E for any distance? We
already have a very busy intersection at
13th/21st as well as 11th/21st. Please don't
make it worse!!! It's also an outrage that the
residents on 2100S will be forced to exit
their driveways in one direction only! (and
btw, let's not forget the atrociously ugly
overhead lines that will accompany the
Streetcar!!!) I have read and reread your
reasons for supporting the Streetcar running
East. It's become very clear that this is, once
again, simply a "pet project" for someone!! I
for one, am sickened by it! We've lived on
1700E since 1998. Our property taxes have
nearly doubled and now I understand the
George Chapman
Let me know if I can help in any other way.
We should get a good turnout for Tuesday's
meeting. Most small businesses will be
represented. My points to the Council
members included: 100 people in a
supposed robust study should not get to
destroy the many small businesses on 11th
E. Many are women owned and operated. A
super duper robust study of over 1600
bicyclists in Portland found that 67% had
crashed on the streetcar rails. (Google Alpine
Planning + design and streetcar and bicycles it is on page 31) The construction will impact
surrounding single family homes because
cars will park there and traffic on the side
streets will increase. Some Westminster
students want it. But Westminster said that
students don’t need a shuttle to
Wilmington when they should be able to
walk the 4 blocks! So why do we need a
streetcar for the students when they should
be able to walk the 4 blocks to it. George
Chapman
Reid Sondrup
Mike Mattsson
Hello Councilman Luke, I would probably
prefer the 2100 South extension for the
Sugar House streetcar since it comes closer
to my house and is therefore a service I
might more likely use that the 1100 East
route. If the ultimate goal is to try to connect
with Foothill Village, why not consider a
route east on 1700 South? It seems to me
redundant to have the streetcar go east past
1700 East on 2100 South when there is
frequent and regular bus service from Route
21. This bus route provides valuable access
to Research Park, the University Hospital,
Primary Children's Medical Center, the
University of Utah and a TRAX station so it
obviously should not be discontinued. Upper
1700 South is underserved by mass transit,
since the 223 bus has been cut back to
service every two hours. A streetcar on 1700
South might also slow down some of the
automobile and motorcycle traffic that
seems to think a 30 MPH speed limit means
it's okay to go 40 or 50 MPH. I'd also like to
make a pitch for a different color scheme to
differentiate the streetcar from other UTA
forms of transit. The red, white and blue
livery currently in use on all other UTA mass
transit modes is most unattractive and it's
Dear Charlie, There is no doubt that a
Wilmington Avenue or Shopko area
redevelopment extension will be less
congested. I hope your position based on
common sense prevails. Mike
Richard and Brenda Glissmeyer
April 22, 2013 Dear Council Member Charlie
Luke, We wish to encourage you to vote for
the twenty-first (21st ) South extension of
the TRAX line here in Sugar House. We
believe this route will give better access to
the Sugar House Park located at 21st South
and 13th East. We feel this route,
additionally, will have a lesser negative
impact on the businesses and residences
located on 11th East. We were pleased to
meet you when you canvassed our
neighborhood during the last election and
subsequently voted for you on Election Day
because of your practical and positive
attitudes on the issues that affect our area.
We hope that we can count on you at this
time to consider our request. We both
frequent the businesses located on 11th East
and adding a TRAX line may cause us stop
doing business in this area. Sincerely,
Richard and Brenda Glissmeyer
Harriet May
I am unable to attend the meeting tonight,
but I cannot see how there will be room on
11th East for the trolly, car lanes, and people
that have to off street park because they do
not have a parking strip or garage. My main
concern and that of neighbors is getting in
and out of our neighborhood. I don't think
planners have talked to the people that live
in Sugarhouse only the College and business
that will stand to benefit from increased
asses to them. A route that has more room
for the trolly and cars would be more
appealing, east up 21st south would impact
fewer homes. That is the opinion of a 30+
year resident of Sugar House. I love it here
and I hope the plans of non-residents do not
out weigh the ones that live here. Thank you
for your time.
Rick Lake
Charlie, I think that a street car up 2100
South is a real bad idea. The traffic is already
terrible in that area and this would only
make it worse. Could it go up the south side
of the park by the fence that borders I-80 or
somewhere else in the park? If not, I would
vote to stop it at ShopCo. 1100 East is
already to narrow and congested, where
would it go? If Shopco allows parking for the
streetcar, that would be ideal. Thanks Rick
Richard Smith
Charlie ----- I appreciate the opportunity to
voice my opinion regarding the proposed
streetcar route through SugarHouse. I have
been a resident of the area for over 30
years.....both on 1100 East and on Redondo
Ave, east of SugarHouse Park. I agree with
your opinion as stated in your recent mailing
where you said you think the better route is
going east/west along 2100 South. I really
don't know how the streetcar would work
on the slim thoroughfare that is 1100 East. I
believe the 2100 South route, while being a
main traffic area throughout the
neighborhood, would better serve the
residents and visitors, while the 1100 East
corridor would be a major congestion
problem, in my opinion. Since I am unable to
attend the meeting on April 23, I hope this
email can help in the collection of local's
opinions on this issue. Richard Smith
Jill Woodworth
Dear Charlie, Thank you for your mailer
regarding the Sugar House Streetcar. I am a
business owner on the 1300 block of 11th
East. I have serious concerns about losing
the parking spaces along this corridor. This
area has many businesses that rely on these
parking spots. The change in parking
requirements for the business zoning has
been relaxed and therefore we count on
11th East to accomodate our clients. Many
of these patrons would be inconvenienced
to have to drive to a streetcar loading zone
and ride back from their appointments. I fear
the same response from side street
neighbors as occurred on 21st East when the
Dodo moved in there. I agree with your
arguments in favor of 2100 South even as far
as Foothill Village. This would not affect
businesses in parking issues. I hope this
helps with the discussion of this subject.
Sincerely, Jill Woodworth
Larry Okun
Mr. Luke - I have submitted the comment
below to the Council via its online form, but
I'm also sending it directly to you. My
preference is the opposite of the one
outlined in your March 29 e-mailed 'District
6 Update' and the front-page article in
today's Salt Lake Tribune. I must say that I do
not see the strength of your arguments, as
I've tried to note in my comment. In
particular, the north along 21st South route
would offer *no* benefit to residents in the
Yalecrest area, whereas the 11th East
option, particularly if eventually extended as
suggested would be an easy (and healthy)
few-blocks walk away for many of us. I'll
watch for your counter-arguments. Thank
you - Larry Okun
Larry Okun
RE: extension of Sugar House Streetcar I
want to express my present strong
preference for the north along 11th East
option. As has been noted, this would
connect a *walkable* light commercial area
along 11th East to Sugar House and
Westminster College. As also pointed out, it
could eventually be extended to the 9th East9th South commercial area and beyond to
the TRAX line at 9th East /4th South, thus
linking Wesminster, three important
commercial/residential areas (Sugar House,
9th&9th, and the 4th South set) -- all
walkable and suited for a streetcar -- plus,
via TRAX, the University and central SLC. The
arguments for the alternative, east
extension along 21st East, with proposed
later extension to Foothill Blvd, then to the
University and TRAX, seem unpersuasive.
The following points can be emphasized: 1.
Neither 21st South nor Foothill Blvd. are
pedestrian-friendly stretches suitable for a
streetcar line. 2. The suggested access to
Highland High offers doubtful advantage.
High school students would likely use such
transportation only twice per day -- morning
and early afternoon -- with heavy use during
those two periods not easily met by any
Elizabeth Giraud, AICP
Dear City Council Members: I would like to
give you my opinion on the route of the
Sugar House streetcar. I don't know why we
need the streetcar, but if we have to spend
federal money, I vote for eastern route. The
businesses along 1100 East sell specialty
goods, for the most part. I'm sorry,
Councilman LaMalfa, but in response to your
comment in the SL Trib this a.m., I don't
understand why hair salons, cafes, dance &
yoga studios and a post office are any less
conducive to driving than any other
business. Many of the properties along 1100
E. are zoned Residential/Business (RB), the
purpose of which is to create vibrant small
scale retail, service, and office uses oriented
to the local area within residential
neighborhoods along higher volume streets.
Development is intended to be oriented to
the street and pedestrian, while
acknowledging the need for automobile
access and parking. You may be charmed by
the small scale now, but the streetcar will
entice development pressure for larger-scale
residential development, and the character
of the street and adjoining neighborhoods
will be ruined. I know that many City officials
would like to see the Shopko area developed
Shawn and Karen Halladay
Hi Charlie, Shawn and I wanted to pass along
some thoughts about the Sugar House
Streetcar expansion. We are not opposed to
an enhanced and well-run public
transportation system in Salt Lake City. We
have experienced first hand how welldesigned and functioning transit systems
effectively move people, both residents and
visitors alike. Regarding the Sugar House
Streetcar expansion options, we would like
to see how this system fits into a complete
(City, County, and State) transit system,
especially, how this line would eventually
link to other transit systems. Currently, there
are areas of the City, including where we live
in District 6, that have very limited transit
options. When considering the Streetcar
expansion, we think that a holoistic/citywide
approach should be studied before spending
limited transit funds. Also, in our travel
experience transit lines move people to and
from major destinations or neighborhoods.
We do not see how the 1100 East option is
either a major destination or neighborhood
(maybe there are future plans for this area
that we don't know). Right now we don't see
why this street would be considered for the
expansion when other areas of the City have
Ted Wilson
Charlie, I think the 1100 E. extension
doesn’t make sense except Westminster
and that is a dead end except for many miles
of residential travel. If I can be helpful in
getting it moved to 2100 S. let me know.
You’re doing a great job for us. Best, Ted
Mary Delle & Raymond Gunn
Dear Charlie, We are in agreement with you
and other East Bench city council members
as to where the Sugarhouse street car
extension should go – further east! The
options for future extension are so much
greater than if the street car extends north
on 1100 East. Where would it possibly go
from there? A commitment has been made
to provide city-wide transit and so far the
east side has only seen a decrease in local
bus service. We have yet to gain BRT. We
wish to see the City at least attempt to
strengthen transit on the east side. This
opportunity may never come again. Thank
you. Mary Delle & Raymond Gunn
Brad Barber
I am a business owner in Sugarhouse, Barber
Tax Service. We are located on 17th S and
11th E and would welcome and support the
new streetcar route up 11th East.
MC Maloney
Anne Beck
I think the consultant’s “purple arrow
plan―to run the streetcar along 1100 East
makes the most sense. We need to deliver
customers to the small businesses along this
route. We need to support the local
economy. We need to support these small
businesses. People can get themselves to
the Sugarhouse Park and they will . They can
catch a bus along 2100 South if the 3 blocks
walk is too far. Also, teenagers can walk
from 1100 East to Highland High School.
They would enjoy the friendships, fresh air,
& a bit of exercise along the route to school.
They are young and healthy. Thanks for
giving me a chance to comment. MC
Maloney
this is a test
Cotter, Glenda
I've been following the conversation
regarding the alternative routes for the third
phase (2C) of the Sugar House streetcar,
with the terminus being at either 1100 E and
1700 So or 2100 So and 1700 E. I'm writing
to strongly support and respectfully
encourage that latter route, for the following
several reasons: 1. The area on Highland
Drive/1100 East from 2100 South to 1700
South is already a thriving community space
for small businesses, high-density and singlefamily housing, and walkable
neighborhoods. It is also a narrow,
pedestrian and bicycle-friendly street with at
least one existing bus route, and it’s the
obvious choice for those wishing to avoid
the much busier traffic on 1300 East. It’s
a place where you can see people coming
and going throughout the day and into the
evening. It’s hard for me to see how
adding a streetcar to the current mix would
be anything less than catastrophically
disruptive. The liveliness of downtown Sugar
House has already been impaired by the
years-old empty lot that is only now seeing
construction begin, but unfortunately the
vibrant, locally owned businesses it is
replacing are not likely ever to return. The
Jacob MaComb
The street car plans should avoid eleventh
east as a means for traffic to continue to
flow staedily along elevith east as well as
twentyfirst south. with all respect the train
tracks that we just had to use for the street
car contined past the point that we have
already built to going directly in to
Sugarhouse park, which is what I recomend
we consider.
Jeff Wall
Do not extend the street car down 1100 East
to 1700 South. for the following reasons:
The road is not wide enough and the
proposed route leads to no-where. It should
be sent up 2100 South or 1300 East and
extend to the UNiversity of Utah.
Westminister Students don't commute to
the campus, University of Utah Students do
from across the valley. This proposed route
solves no traffic issues. The neighborhoods
cannot handle any additional short cut traffic
driving at freeway speeds. People can walk
to 2100 south, like we already do.
George Sumner
A streetcar route along 2100 South will
create development pressure on Sugarhouse
Park. This will start immediately with
confiscation of park property to create "turnouts" so the streetcar will not have to stop in
traffic lanes. It will continue until this
precious open space is fully developed. At a
time when Utah politicians are willing to
spend $700 million of taxpayer funds to
move the prison in order to make its
property available to developers, I can see
no other possible future for Sugarhouse Park
if the streetcar line is extended along 2100
South.
Russell Callister
I commend Fehr and Peers for their streetcar
study. Included in their study were
consultants form Portland, Denver, and
Seatle and they all came to the same
conclusion, the street car should extend east
to Highland Drive and then north to 2100
south, the center of Sugar House. I urge the
City Council to approve the LPA recomended
by Fehr and Peers, if only to 2100 south.
Craig W. Mecham
It seems to me that strong consideration
should be given to the professional firm of
Fehr and Peers who was employed by the
city to do an indepth study as to what will
best serve Sugar House. They are very
familar with what does work and what does
not work. They have gone to great effort and
expense to provide the City with a feasability
study and made their recommendation
based on the skills and experience doing this
very kind of thing. If we ignore their
recommendation it is a little like going to the
Doctor who tells us we have "high blood
pressure" and perscribes a medication to
solve the problem, however if we don't
follow his recommendation because we
don't like the taste of the pill it could have
fatal consequences. Such could be the case if
we ignore Fehr and Peer's recommendation
Also, it only make sense to provide the
trolley service to where the people live.
Within one block of 21st So and 11th E their
are currently five apartment complexs either
built or being build that average over 150
units a piece. Also the area north of 21st is
primarily residential. According to the report
those who are most likely to ride the trolley
are those who live and shop in Sugar House.
Doug Murray
Please stop the madness. Let's wait to see
how things go with phase 1 of the streetcar
before blindly going into the next phase.
Walkable neighborhoods are great. I love my
neighborhood. But there is a difference
between a neighborhood and an business
district. A few years ago additional
businesses were pushed on our
neighborhood against residents' wishes.
Now there is no street parking for a block
around those businesses because empoyees
are always parked in front of our houses.
The reason there isn't more bus service in
the neighborhood is because ridership was
low. What rosy projections make you think
that people who won't ride a bus will ride
the streetcar? I like the idea of mass transit,
but we don't have the numbers. People
aren't going to walk 5 blocks to ride the
streetcar for 4 blocks.
Camlle Alexander
I am for the street car down 1100 S. It will be
a great connection to the Trax on 400 S. It
will provide the Westminster Students with a
great alternative to get around instead of
driving. Therefor reducing our air pollution
that we get in the winter. This will be a
wonderful for my home price. I believe that
having a street will provide my
neighborhood with revitalization and a
wonderful opportunity to get around. I will
definatly be using the street car is put down
1100 South. It was a wonderful idea.
Deb Williamson and Mark Williamson For
Sterling Furniture Company
Having arrived at 7pm for the Meeting and
not being able to get inside I thought that for
the sake of all of us I would persue this
method of having my voice heard. As I worte
and sent to you last Saturday Sterling
Furniture Company is one of the oldest
businesses in Sugar House. I represent not
only myself but all the principles of our
corportation (Our Family has been in the
Furniture business for 6 generations, so we
must be doing something right.) We also
have 30 Residential Resident Familiies that
occupy our Sugar House Apartments, and 11
retail spaces (All about Coins and Fankhauser
jewerly to name a few.) We are along with
the Sugar House Merchants Association our
IN FAVOR of the Streetcar proceeding on
Highland drive to 2100 South thus keeping
the HEART of Sugar House where it belongs
by the momument plaza. We favor at this
time to have the streetcar then to proceed
East on 2100 South because of the UTA bus
ridership. We also believe that the 2100
south option is better for the for the many
small businesses and Ma and Pop Stores that
inhabit 1100 East that give Sugar House it's
unique flavor. We are also concerned how
the city plans to raise 30 million dollars for
Sharen Hauri
Jill, Thank you for your commitment to our
neighborhood. I am commenting on the SH
Streetcar as a resident and participant in
ELPCO, but also have the insight of having
participated in the Alternative Alisgnment
study in my role working on the streetcar for
South Salt Lake. I agree with the proposed
LPA for the reasons outlined in that study.
The city should invest in transit that has the
greatest return - in ridership, reinvestment
and economic activity. The extension north,
which can ultimately connect to other
central city neighborhoods meets these
criteria. The demographics, income, diversity
of housing and jobs density is there and
deserving of a more complete transit
network, and streetcar fits the bill. It is not
however, the only possible option. BRT on
700 East or another transit option on 1100
East may also make sense. It is frustrating
that this debate has been driven by emotion
and not evidence in the past few weeks. I
believe SLC has not fully addressed the range
of considerations that will help clarify the
choice to its residents. We need to have a
better picture of future transportation
options, future development and future
neighborhood master plans for the entire
William Deutschman
In listening to the discussion tonight at the
city council meeting, I heard a number of
comments about the streetcar damaging the
pedestrian and bike experience along 1100
East. I cannot speak to the pedestrian
experience, but both my wife and I are daily
bike commuters in the area. I commute to
Westminster college and often ride to meet
my wife who bike commutes to the
sugarhouse clinic on Wilmington avenue. I
do have some concerns about the hazard
that the streetcar tracks pose to bicyclists.
That is pretty well documented. But, anyone
who tells you that putting a streetcar in will
ruin some idyllic bike transit option is
someone who has not ridden that area. 1100
east is a route of necessity or last resort for
bicyclists. Between the auto traffic, narrow
shoulders (at the south end) and seemingly
random driveways and parking areas, that
route is already quite dangerous for
bicyclists. Though I have no data to support
it, my strong hunch is that the re-planning of
the street that comes as part of the project
will make it safer than it is now. I have
ridden the streetcars in NW Portland, and
have observed the bicycle traffic there (as
seen through the eyes of someone who rides
Jennifer Mallory
I am concerned about the traffic impact of
the already constructed streetcar route has
on 700 E and 900 E - main roads for people
in my neighborhodd. Yet we are already
trying to decide where the streetcar should
go next - along other main corridors in our
small neighborhood without seeing what
impact on traffic the streetcar would have.
Please hold off on deciding any further
expansions until we observe the traffic
impact on the already existing streetcar
route.
Takako Mc Mullen
In incoming mail today you received a letter
from constituent Ms. Takako Mc Mullen. She
that she has been a resident for 74 years and
she would like for your support for the east
side expansion for the streetcar.
Philip D. Shea
In incoming mail today Mr. Philip D. Shea
sent a comment. It stated,―I would like the
Sugar house Streetcar to take me to the Salt
Lake International Airport.―
Cathy Walsh
I feel very stringly as a tax payer and as a
property owner in the Westminster vicinity
(rental property that my dtr. will soon reside
in) that the 1100 e or any other alternative
simply doesnt make financial sense as the
optimal ise of transportation. 2100s
continuing on seems to make the most
sense for the reasons that were listed by
Luke and Simonsen in their opeds in the
Tribune.
Michael Browining
I think the 11th east route is a mad idea.
11th east is tight and conjested as it is. If the
streetcar goes to 17th or even 13th South,
its a train to nowhere. It would be better to
go to 13th east or up 21st South. take the
line to Foothill Blvd. or down 13th East to
Westminster College. I sone see the need to
take the line through the Sugarhouse
bussiness district at all. There is a stop in
sugarhouse. Its two short blocks from
everything. Hasnt Downtown Sugar house
taken enough hit.
Robert mayer
It's a bit dofferent to comment on vague
plans for a expansion of public transit in this
part of the city, but I do not see the rationale
for expansion northward on 1100 east close
to 2100 south, 1100 east is already quite
conjested. I avoid the area now for this
reason, especially in the late afternoon.
Adding a streetcar would make matters
worse as far as serving Westminster
students, why not save tens of millions of
dollars by providing a shuttle( the way
Georgetown University does in Washington,
DC)? Finally, if the streetcar is going to move
at the speed of traffic, better bus service
would be much less expensive and far more
flexible for the long term.
Lisa Monson
trolly good idea- connecting out
neighborhoods would be great but, why do
the infrastructure? Why not have natural gas
run the trolleys that could drive where
needed? 21st to 9th ect... Easier to manage
longer distances sooner and easier, Seasonal
use, changing schedules. 11th east is
residential and is also conjested. If
residences have a trolly trach in front of
their homes, they will move. Out
neighborhood will turn to rentals.
Jessica Crouch
11th East is a very narrow stret with a very
high traffic load. There will be extreme
difficulty for people to continue to drive on
this street if there is a trolly car (essentially
trax line). If the eventual goal is to reduce
traffic and provide a service to the
community for future use, then the long
term future should be considered as well. A
single line will not suffice after a few years
and the reality of turning this into a dual line,
when there is already a lacj of funding,
epecially when there is no space will make
the street unusable for regular traffic and
then ultimately the businesses and local
economy will suffer there are much better
(ie wider) options than 11th east that could
provide good access for a similar goal.
Tim Imaeu
-1100 east already very busy busy and
congested. -Current public transportation
adeguate bus lines on 1100/1300 -hard to
find parking at my house already, let alone
when street side parking gets removed on
1100 e. - n line alond 1300 e would serve a
higher population than 1100 e -n line
terminating at 1700 s defeats the purpose of
connecting sugarhouse with the trax line(
along 400s).
M. Rhiannon Trimm
Tom Helme
Clayton Helme
Cons of the Streetcar: -1100 East os heavily
congested already-at times traffic barley
moves -parking on the street is overcrowdedand limited- I presume we will lsoe our on
street parking and not all homes have a
driveway. Where will people park? What
about visitors to neighborhoods? Where will
guests park? -we already have bus routes on
1100 east when not use what is already in
place? -1100 east would serve fewer
businesses than abusier street would -has
the potential to increase the noise in our
residential neighborhood - This seems lika
huge waste of tax payers dollars. How many
people on 1100 east actually want a trolley
on 1100e? -It seems running the trilly to
1700 s is for westminster college these
studnets will only hand to and from school
for 4 yrs or less. I bought a house on 1100 e
and plan to live here for 50+yrs, which I
wount do it you put a trolly in front of my
house. - A trolly may sound great to the folks
that dont have to live with it interfering with
thier home life. -The turn out tonight should
speak volumes about how residents feel
about this proposal Please do not destroy
our neighborhood and wast tax payer
dollars! We should be investing in education!
Reliable, convenient public transportation
would be a big help in improving the air
quality problems we have in this valley. The
trolley line extending East on 2100 would be
helpful in reaching these goals.
I would like the trolley line to go east on
2100 south up to the park and highland
drive. It was not part of the study which I
feel was a mistake. The sugar house park is a
big draw for many people and is the main
reason I think that streetcar should go up
2100 south.
Susan Koelliker
I learned about the possibility of a streetcar
in my beighborhood this past week going up
2100 south, I believe, after being at this
meeting, everyone here is pushing the 21st
south because they are against 11th east.
Unfortunatley, my neighbors have only
learned about it this week or still dont know.
I have four children that cross 21st south to
school everyday. A streetcar would be
extremely dangerous and under used in my
neighborhood. I carpool with neighbors
everyday- we are concerned about our
environment and that is why we carpool. We
purchased out home to live on the city but
also to be accessible. I drive in sugarhouse
everyday- the buses arent full and the traffic
is not an issue, pleasedont take what we
love about our neighborhood!
Sue Ann Jobes
I am against the streetcar going wast on
2100 south. - Our children walk to school
and cross 2100 south it is more dangerous
with crossing with a streetcar. - If we want a
waling community-- lets walk -It is only 2
blocks from sugarhouse up to the park we
can walk - There is no destination East on
2100 south -2100 south is a neighborhood
we dont want a streetcar changing it. -The
buses are not full. We wont use a streetcar
either. -2100 South is a neighbor street the
city council talks about having a walking city
let us have it.
Whitney Ward
The streetcar should continue down 1100
east to 900 south then run down to 900 east
to trax. This will serve more residents move
businesses and connect to the U and
downtown more effectively.
Allison Fleming
the 1100 east streetcar is a poor use of
public funds. 2100 s. provides the
opportunity to link to the U. much better
Bill Cordray
There are multiple liong range impacts of
these two choices that requier a more
thorough discussion with respect to citycounty transportation issues. We need to
solve these problems first with the help of
an outside R/UDAY type group which has no
conflict of local interests. We should study
excellent transportion solutions such as the
chritables, Brazil articulated bus routes
which penicle the city and connect to spokes
of trains that feed the city center, however,
if I had to choose now 21st so makes more
sense. I have no additional rationale that
would include any more points that you
ahve not already heard. I do like ideas that
avoid the 21st/highland & 21st s 13 e
intersections, such as routes via wilmington
or shopko, one radical option cross 13th east
wilmington and create a streetcar line that
accompanies the propsed parleys trail
encirlce the park counter clockwise back to
wilmington w/no impact on streets.
Kathy Hills
I am opposed because a lot of people in the
sugarhouse cant afford to ride transit. I
personally find that I can get to work faster
in my car (10min) than using transit which
takes mean hour to get to work. I think you
should continue the tracks up through
shopping center by the theatres + shopko
area to sugar house park. then have the trax
circle the park back. The park could be used
as a park and ride.
Mary Slocum
I am opposed to unning a streetcar north on
1100 wast.( I stronly oppose the long term
plan for further extension to 900s) This
street, in my opinion, should be maintained
as a very bicycle + pedestrian friendly street,
with respect given to the residential
neighborhood. A streetcar will bring
additional noisem lighting,congestion,
remocal of trees ect.. Most of my neighbors
commute east (to university research park,
hospitals schoold not downtown). This route
does not enhance connectivity to resources
that are not already in easy walking or
cycling distance. Please use an existing traffic
throughfare such as 2100 south; or 1300
east if you insist on linking northward. 1300
east has better connectivity potential with
westminster, u of u, eash high ect... 2100
south has better potential to loop + link with
both westminster + u of u. I dont see this
1100 east route as cycling friendly. I also
view the 1100east route as limited access to
my local post office.
Greg Schegel
I request ETC group and ETC sugar house llc
a small business and property owner on
1100 east we strongly support phases 2a +2b
(to 1100 east and 2100 south) and we also
suppor6t bringing the streetcar up to 1100
east and 1700 south.
Mark and Debbie Unrah
Alice Parkinson
We live in the area. Have so far over 20
years we are strongly opposed to the
streetcar expansion down 1100 E. It is too
small of a street to provide this type of
multiple not needed, decied, or safe. We are
all for re ducing pollution throughit the city.
So we are not against public transit please
create a master plan. Please make were
decisions on where uit is placed 1100 e just
doesnt make sense. Please keep us informed
and included on a tranparent fashion.
If any street parking is taken out along 11th
e. It will be harmful to small businesses on
11th e that depend on that parking. What
will happen to bike lanes? Why is the bus not
sufficient?
Jason Duke
Russell, I was sent to the council meeting as
a representative of the United States Postal
Service. I am not sure if the city council has
previously contacted our organization about
the possible impacts of the streetcar project
on postal operations, however local Salt
Lake City postal management was unaware
of this project until this last week. I do not
think it is appropriate for our organization to
voice an opinion as to which would be the
best route for the Sugarhouse streetcar to
follow, but we do need to make you aware
of the needs of our organization and to
make you aware of how any development or
construction on 1100 East could potentially
impact our operations. The Sugarhouse Post
Office has 46 motorized delivery routes
servicing a large area; from 500 East to 2000
East, and from 900 South to 3900 South. We
also have at least 5 to 6 large trucks that
service our facility between 3:30 am to 7:00
pm, bringing our incoming mail and taking
our outgoing mail dispatch to the processing
plant on Redwood Rd. The only access that
these vehicles have in or out of our Station is
1100 East. The only customer access to our
Post Office is also off of 1100 East. If there
were to be any construction on 1100 East
Sarah Woosley
Dear Mr. Lamalfa. I am a concerned citizen
from Sugarhouse. I am concerned that you
are making decisions about the streetcar in
Sugarhouse based on business people's
interests and not citizens. I read a quote
from you in the SL Trib today. It might have
ben an incomplete quote, I would like to give
you a chance to explain yourself further--but
here is what it said- "business on 1100E are
the kind of service businesses that do not
require a car:salons, cafes, dance and yoga
studios, a post office." Your decision for the
streetcar in this quote is NOT taking the
neighborhood citizens into account. It seems
business are your focus. I live 1 block from
the proposed car. My street , the impact on
my home, neighbors, was not studied by the
transportation department like the impact
on business. No one has studied how this
street car will affect the cut through car
traffic onto Hollywood Av that risks children
and pedestrian safety. We already deal with
lots of stress from the busy rush hour
streets. I fear the Stcar will impact us event
more. When there are slow cars and backups-they cut right through and speed wast on
Hollywood to 900E. It happens Mon-Friday. I
live 24- 7 at my home. Business are there 9-
Danny Clyne
Hi Charlie, As you might guess, my wife and I
most adamantly concur with our long-time
friend Ms. Rech. From the get-go, we've
always understood that any mass transit
going up 21st South to the East, was not to
be part of the Master Plan. We are already
aghast by the amount of development
happening in the central Sugarhouse area. It
is my personal opinion that Soren Simonsen
is single-handedly destroying the area. The
once quaint and walkable Sugarhouse is now
becoming overused and soon will be
overcrowded as well. The Sugarhole fiasco
was certainly foretelling of the pending
doom of the area. It is sad when developers
have more power with their dollars then do
the residents of the city with their tax dollars
and moreover, their voices. We too are
regrettably unable to attend this evening's
meeting. But, for now, I will close by saying
this: Please, discontinue building and stop
the madness. Just please stop it. Your
partner in the war against graffiti, Danny
Lee Rech
Dear Councilman Luke, As a resident of
Sugarhouse (District 6) for over 18 years, I
am emailing to request that you reject the
Sugarhouse Streetcar / Trax line proposal
that puts it coming up 21st South. I currently
live on 15th East and Hollywood Ave (1965
South) and I can say without a doubt that
developing the Trax line just two blocks from
my front door would not only devalue my
property (which I have spent tens of
thousands of $$ remodeling), which has
already been slammed by the
recession/housing crisis but would also set a
negative precedent of more commercial
development along the 21st South corridor
that is still primarily residential east of 13th
East all the way up to Parley’s Way. I
know that there some urban planners such
as Soren Simonsen that are proponents of
developing the Trax up 21st South. However,
having talked to many in my neighborhood
including some businesses owners, I can tell
you a majority of people that I have spoken
to are not okay with this Trax plan. I hope
you and your City Council colleagues will
consider all of the pros and cons of running a
Trax line up 21st South (including the
Sugarhouse Master Plan) carefully as I
Paul C. Burke
Stan, Last summer I moved into your district
and am now one of your constituents. I am
writing to express my support for extending
the Sugarhouse Trolley eastward along 2100
South rather than north on 1100 East. The
proposed 1100 East option is a dead-end. On
the other hand, the route up 2100 South will
immediately provide access to Sugarhouse
Park and Highland High Schools, and
eventually could lead to expansion up 2100
South to the Walmart and perhaps then
north across Foothill Boulevard. Our city will
be well-served by a transportation plan with
options for the future. Please support the
eastbound option up 2100 South. Best
regards, Paul C. Burke
Linette Sheffield
Members of the Salt Lake City Council: Thank
you for the opportunity to give input on the
Sugar House Streetcar project. I have
concerns about the street car project. I feel
that this would be a controversial
installation, and that it would be good if the
salt lake city citizens could vote on the issue.
I have several questions that could be
answered or put in a general mailer that
would benefit the public. 1. How will this
affect east and westbound traffic on 21st
south? I feel that the area from 9th east up
to 13th east is already crowded and the
streets are busy enough. I travel these roads
at least 3-5 days per week. Traffic is backed
up with the 2 lanes going both directions. I
am NOT in favor of lessening the number of
car traffic lanes in either direction. I would
not ride the streetcar, and many other area
residents would not, so please allow us to
use the roads currently as they are. 2. I am
even more concerned with the traffic on
11th east, where I frequent my driving even
more! It is literally packed most days just
north of 21st south. With the bank exit, the
Smith's gas station, and the post office, not
to mention small businesses/restaurants. I
can't even imagine a streetcar taking the
Gail Murdock
This message is from Gail Murdock who is
opposed to the 1100 East streetcar route.
She would appreciate a call back at , but
understands you aren't likely to call today.
Gail teaches at Highland High School and has
discussed the streetcar with her students.
She feels if the 1100 East route is selected, it
will be a great disservice to many people and
businesses. She prefers the 2100 East route.
She plans to attend tonight's meeting and
comment
Rod Minister
This voicemail is from Rod Minister who is
opposed to the streetcar on 1100 East. He
prefers seeing it go up Wilmington to 1300
East and then to 2100 South. .
Clifford and Vena Childs
We appreciated receiving the newsletter you
sent us. We have property in District Seven.
We want to express our opinion about the
proposals for streetcar extension. We
strongly agree with the opinion that it
should go east to 1300 East and Sugar House
Park with a further extension to Highland
High School. The proposal to go north on
1100 East to 1700 South should be
abandoned. The intersection of 2100 S and
Highland Drive would NOT be improved with
additional congestion. Already we find
ourselves avoiding Sugar House and
especially that route because of congestion.
Service to the north can be handled with
better planning and different choices. Thank
you for listening to our opinion. Clifford and
Vena Childs
Did not give
This resident called to express her
opposition to the streetcar going up 11th
east as it would ruin the ambiance of the
neighborhood. The 21st South option, she
said would be a better option to connect
with future transportation needs. She said if
you get a chance to call her, she assumes
you will be too busy with the meeting
though so if you can't she is fine, she can be
reached . She didn't leave her name.
Alex Hildebrand
I am a college stufent, I currently live on
2100s and sure it isnt the best street to live
on but it is the greatest neighborhood.I have
lived on 2100s for 10 soon to be 11 years of
my life. I love ot here and I dont want to see
my neighborhood ruined and turned into an
urban community. There is no need for a
streetcar on my street. The bus sustem
works fine and there are no problems so I
dont understand why we need to upgrade to
something that is so lightly ised East of 1300
e. I walked arounf with a petition and I
walked to more than 100 homes more than
45 were against and the rest were not home
or didnt know about this. I dont want the
noise, extra traffic, construction, commercial
creep and so one. I hope this project stops
where it is.
Scott Kisling
Councilman Luke and Simonsen have both
articulated my concerns that this decision
should wait until a citywide trasportation
plan has been made. Residents east of 2100
east which I represent prefer an alignment
along 2100 south eventually reaching the
21/21 business district, the 2300 e/2100s
business area and beyond, to onvigerate
those areas that are ripe for redevelopment.
other reasons are: 1- Highest bis ride ship in
city is 2100s. 2-many employees working in
my area live in S salt Lake + west 3-Many
residents in my area work along 2100s west
of i-80 4- Eventualy light rail along Foothill to
the South + to the east would benefit from a
feeder System like this 5- Im tired of walking
me mile to the 21 bus!
Michael Baker
As a resident of North Sugarhouse/Liberty
Wells and a professional Transportation
Planner I feel strongly that the 1100 East
alternative is the stronger option for the the
following reasons. User Density: The 1100
East alternative is the stronger option
because there is a greater density of
residential, business, and student users.
Density is the key to the success of any mass
transit project. The vast outcry of residents
against 1100 East is largely rooted in a
fundamental misunderstanding about how
streetcars function. In transportation
planning, parks are *never* a strong
generator for transit trips apart from special
events (4th of July etc.) Furthermore,
improving access to Westminister Campus
could have the added benefit of reducing
traffic on the already congested 1300 E. and
1100 E. Ultimately this is a choice between
providing access to a larger (Westminister)
and smaller (Sugarhouse Park) trip
generators. Traffic impacts: Through proper
design, I can see the streetcar having a
minimal impact on traffic along 1100 East.
Bear in mind that residents will be
particularly skeptical of anything that could
possibly increase traffic as they have been
Kelly White
Although I dont live in sugar house I spend a
lot of time shopping and visiting resturants
in sugar house I am glad taht the city is
investing in a streetcar. What I would like to
see is taht the city will invest in
transportation on the East Bench. The East
bench is greatly underserved with very
limited to nonexistent bus service and no
trax service. It would be nice if the streetcar
caoul east. I understand that the consult
recommended the streetcar head north bit I
am concerned that route would create more
congestin main already busy street. If
eventually the congestion the streetcar was
expanded north beyond 1700 south it would
make more sense. It would be ideal if the car
couls go east to sugarhouse and go up 21st
south but if there could also be a route north
on 1100 east but farther than 1700 south
which seems like a dead end route. Continue
up to 900 South.
gary Madrid
Putting the trolley down 11th east is a high
mistake: 1- Traffic would be terrible we
couldnt get home 2- It would ruin the
atmosphere of the whole area 3-Go up 21st
as suggested by the council member DONT
GO DOWN 11TH EAST!!
No to trax down 1100 east to conjested
allready & getting bottled in. Fire,
ambulance a lot harder to get to residents
who pay taxes. NO NO NO
Butch Adams
I do not feel the 11th east option for the
streetcar is a viable option. The street is to
narrow to allow safe bike travel, its already
to congested please look for better option.
Reid Judd
Jordan Larsen
I would strongly prefer the streetcar to run
east west along 2100 s to sugar hosue park
and beyond. We need more transit service
on the east bench. Westminster college is to
close to the sugar house business district to
warrant depicated streetcar service.
I think it should go up willin to that the edge
of the park up to 21st or 23rd wast north to
vetrens hospital & u of u. 11th wast is to
congested now. the eastside if you are
interested in serving the east side it needs to
go east.
I do not want anymore congestion on 11th
east NO. It is already a pain on 11th wast we
have buses!
I do not want the streetcar to go down 11th
east.
Susanne Parry
I am very against the streetcar in front of my
house. I am angry that no onw was informed
about it going up 2100 s. Charlie Luke has
totally has not infomred me and the artical
he wrote in the newspaper was false. I dont
want more wires on my street wwe have
enough. I dont want my taxes to go up to
pay for it! I ahve lived on this street for 62
years. I should have a say.
Dustin Campbell
I like the idea of a streetcar, but the car
needs to be routed in a way that makes
sense for future expansion plans. And I
would like to know how much it will cost me.
dont route it north on 1100 east from 2100
south. this is what I would propose as an
effective route:1-it makes a loop 2- it serves
a lot of businesses 3- you can expand later to
other destinations. Dont build it north on
1100 east past 2100 south. theres nothing to
go to. It wont get used.
Greg Bergmann
Merrill Sybdergaurd
Joann Syndergaurd
Susan Kennard for Donna Klenk
David Petersen
Barry Angstman
Kelly Saunders
John Neville
EP McNeil
I am representing my 88yr old mother who
lives just west of Westminster college on
Blaine ave. I am concerned about the
accessability to her street. 11th east is the
only access to her home since 12th east was
closed off several years ago. If we need the
street car please send it up 21st so not down
11th east.
This is a choice between to good
alternatives. However, the main trax line
west of west temple continues to receive
more and more trax traffic. i beleive that if
the 1100 east line is selected first, it will
eventually drop down to 900 east had head
north to 400 south effectively by passing the
crowd line near west temple therby
providing a second route to downtown. I
think both routes should be done, but the
1100 east route first.
I am in favor of the alternative route to
highland high and then up to 21 & 21 we
need viable alternative for n/s
transportation on the East bench.
No to the extension of the sugar house trax
along 1100 east north. Support trax along
2100 s. to Foothill Dr. 1300 East is on Trax
between 1100 east and 1300 e along 2100
so. Extension on 1100 e concluded of trax
congested and a term so close to residents.
Dont send there is business to justify lone.
Sugarhouse is not a distinations are 1100
east will go no where.
I would prefer to see the streetcar run up by
sugar house park + up 2100 south.
Go east 21st e on 23rd e then North to
Foothill Village and the U.
Daphne Perry
I thinks a big safety issue, concern, if you put
me the streetcar down 11th east. It is a very
narrow corridor. I dont this it can fit & allow
firetrucks & ambulances to manoever thru
traffic in an emergency. i was travelling
south on 11th east last week & a fire turck
was needing to turn in and cars had to
backup more over ect for it to get thru.
please do not run the car along 11th east.
Julie Adams Chatterley
I dont understand how 11th is the
recommended and not 21st. getting done
congested off of 21st should be a priority.
This would make 11th much less walkable.
Dan Flandro
The trax route up 21st south would jam up
an already difficult street. Ive lived here 60
years the trax should go north along 13th
wast this would allow trax access to the U
connection and allow apartment complexes
to have access to westminster the u and
back to 4th south.
Michael Bruschke
No trolly at all 21st is already incredibly
congested is a trolley would certainly make
is worse. Where would cyclists go? What
happens to the street parking that
businesses depend on? A trolley down 11th
os equally as disasterous no trolley.
Constance Craigston
1100 East is too busy congested narrow for
the mayors preferred plan. Does he live
here? Work here? The east side deserves
some transit options all area schoolds would
benefit from 2100 so. plan.
Solissa Welden
I currently have a boutique on 1100east my
business would not survive the construction
nor do I think that going up 1100 east would
serve any purpose. It would destroy what
myself and other small busniess owners
have worked so hard to keep afloat my biz
depends on loyal cust, but also random
people driving up 1100 east. It should go
east on 2100 s towards the park I am
passonate about this stupid idea.
Tagge Solaimanian
Dear council members, we have been small
business owner on 1100 east for the last 22
years, I wish the streetcar go to east on 2100
south 1100 east is very congested and
narrow street. It makes sense to me that
2100 so route will connect to u of u and
hospital in the future.
Sarah Solaiman
Prefer alt B3--heading e on 2100 connecting
foot traffic to the park and high school 11th
e for 21 to 1700 does not get foo traffic and
run rist of losing biz.
As a concerned resident and citizen of the
sugarhouse area I am opposed to the
streetcar coming down 1100 east.
Street car should go east otp foothill fo
north on foothill connect to u of u trax. UTA
Rte 220 and 213 already drive to
westminster college.
I do not want the trax on 11th east because
it is a narrow congested street I want up to
come up 21st south,.
Michael Glover
The trolley on 1100 east is a bad idea
because tearing out the beautification pro
for something ugly for our neigborhood.
Heather Bradbury
Dana Curtis
Ken Lheadon
Chris Collier
I dont think we need to expand the sugar
house steetcar. The streetcar was sold to us
as a 2.5 mile slow streetcar to bring
shoppers to sugar house. Not to disrupt the
neighborhood. By expanding service will
increase the rail traffic likely include another
track. Likely impacting the neighborhood
feel. If you must expand service there is
plenty of north south options already I feel
there is not enough east west service. Avoid
impacting 21st s 11th east intersection. It is
already to busy.
I support any streetcar plan as long as you
can still turn left.
Christine Zabawa
1-What studies have been done to show that
the properties directly impacted will
increase in property value and how can I
access them. 2- As I reside directly on 23 e I
am concerned that such a streetcar makes a
meaningful improvement. I live only 7
minutes away from the U campus and
downtown but am unable to utilize any
public transportation at present. Nor can I
even ride my bike to the center of campus
all together I am opposed unless this
changes while keeping the nice
neighborhood I live in.
LeeAnn Bywaters
My biggest concern is that this streetcar
issue is down to the final approval and I just
got something in the mail about it 2 weeks
ago and it was the first I heard of it.
David Morrow
Anne Cannon
I favor the streetcar line going east as the
next phase of the sugar house transit line. I
feel we need to get going with transit on the
east side of our city. i hope the line will
eventually extend east to foothill blvd. and
on north to the u of u and the trax line there.
The eleventh east line in the future will also
be valuable as a north south connection
along with a much needed city wide transit
plan to meet our multi age, business growth
and future needs.
G. Kies
I prefer the east route toward highland high
for the following reasons: 1- Enough
congestion at 21s / 1100e live the local
businesses + residents a break. 2- East route
serves a more viable business district. 3- ties
in to city with a listing bus route. 4- allows
for future espansion to the east and north. 5Cheaper alternative.
Laura Fuhriman
Carol Carter
After listening to the comments at tonights
meeting I am concerned that there does not
seem to be a master plan in place. I saw the
proposed routes and not one of them goes
into sugar house park. Which was one of the
main points talked about in the literature
there was no mention of how this would
affect homeowners taxes. There does not
seem to be any option to not having the
streetcar in sugar house but, jsut end it
where it is now being built. We would like to
be able to vote on these proposals.
Increase tax- yes, more stops on street yes.
Please listen to the voice of the people. No
street car on highland dr.
Nicole Herbert
What a joke! Sorry. 21st-17th on 11e ripping
up our darling city for a few block causeing a
huge increase to traffic congestion that is
already an issue on 11th e and the disruption
to all our businesses on 11th is just ridiculour
we dont want it. Take the bus or walk . Sugar
house is a walking and biking neighborhood
please dont clog us up and pollute our air
more by piling up ares putting behind a
trolley with 3 people in it.
Mark Eliason
I really have appreciated the outreach to the
community regarding the very important
issue of the sugar house trolley. If the city
council had not proceeded with this specific
proposal I do believe that the full weight of
the opinions of the people would not have
been heard. I am a long time resident of
Sugar house and am against the
development of the streetcar along 11th
wast. I have 5 children several of whom
attend emerson elementary. I am concerned
about how narrow 11 east is what would
happen to the bike lanes whether there will
be more accidents due to the quiet nature of
the streetcar and the inconvience due to
congestion on the street. My thanks for your
time in considering my opinion.
Robert Peacock
1-Stop where it is and monitor usgae. 2- how
iwll expansion be funded 3-Spend my tax
money for air traffic controllers benefiting
thousands not street cars for a few. 4-11th
east already too congested. 5-going down
21st s to 1700 or 2100e is almost all
residential. 6-21st is needed for people to
get to work especially to the U. 7-Many
major e/w streets have already been
reduced by center turn lanes and bike lanes
not being used and useless in the winter. 8If you want to live where there are no cars
move to the contry this is a city. 9-high
school kids drive cars. 10- buses are cheaper
and more flexible.
Lisa Eisenberg
I feel that there needs to be more study and
consideration of a thrid alternative. Neither
2100 south nor 1100 east seems to be a
pleasant alternative. those of use who live
close to sugar house park mived there
because of the natural beauty of the area.
posts and wires for a streetcar would blight
the value of a priceless view. Ridership
would not be sufficient to sacrifice that
which most residents prize the most. 1100
east is far to narrow and congested why not
consider 700 east and use buses as
connectors similar to the narta system in
atlanta or max in portland.
Wade Olsen
In support of streetcar we need more
options for public transportation. the
streetcar solves so many problems that
many people do not understand. this is a
positive thing for Sugar House we need to
look to the future. This is vital to our future.
Allan Flandro
1- If run to 11th east you lose parking 2-who
wons Sugar house? The apts. Dwellers or
home owners? Who pays the taxes? 3- the
route should go down 9th east and connect
to 9th and go over to 11th.
Cristy Airhart
Maybe in 20 yers we could use a trax on
Foothill Not now---obviously Simon you
want the 26 million for those that ride trax
you cold but them all a new corolla.
Ben Holcomb
I see the Sugarhouse streetcar as the first
step towards 'building the backbone' (past
UTA reference to rail) of a SLC streetcar
system linking small-business
neighborhoods. Considering topography,
business locations, neighborhood access and
least disturbance to vehicle thruways (in this
case 2100 South), the best option is that
recommended by the consultants and
backed by Mayor Becker (1100 East option).
Ideally, the line would continue north on
1100 East to 900 South and turn west
towards the TRAX stop on 200 West 900
South where it would link to the other
proposed line from the Granary District. The
1100 East option would provide the first
vertebrate connecting the Sugarhouse
neighborhood to the many small businesses
budding on 900 south, 9th/9th
neighborhood, Liberty Park and beyond. My
comments are based on no vested interests
(business or personal), but only to see
successful decisions for a well constructed
community. Thanks
Fauntelle Young and Tyson Daniel
Scott K. Sorenson
Laurie Reed
As a property owner of a business and a
private residence in Sugarhouse I favor the
11th East alignment for the Sugar House
Streetcar. The current campaign to stop the
11th east alignment is based on fear,
misinformation and intimidation. As a
property owner I find the streetcar a
solution to pollution, congestion and would
make Sugar House a more welcoming place.
I believe it will be good for business. I urge
you to keep the 11th East alignment. Please
I am a resident of Sugar House and live near
2100 East and 2100 South I am concerned
that making assumptions about best
available options for future expansion prior
to having any experience with the original
line into Fairmont/Sugarmont is a deeply
flawed and reckless approach to this issue
when you have zero idea if your original (and
therefore underlying assumptions) about
future growth AND COST bear any relation
to reality I lived in Cleveland where the local
rail lines grew over time to require a subsidy
(therefore higher taxes) in excess of $100
million annually I think a prudent man and a
prudent steward of public resources would
stop and think and develop a master plan
before proceeding in any future expansion
Please cancel the trolley and give back the
money, thank you Laurie Reed
Tara Baird
I live on 11th east between 9th south and
13th south in a very quiet residential area. I
would NOT want the street dug up for rail
lines north of 13th south. we already have
buses and my proerty value will gretly
decrease. It does not make sense to go
through quiet neighborhoods to connect
sugarhouse & 9th & 9th. The surrounding
neighborhoods or are what makes these
places
Dont ruin
them! to develop
To the special.
overwhelming
opposition
Grace Vlam
a streetcar line on 11th East, I will add my
strong opposition to the 2100 south
development as well, for the following
reasons: Sugar House is a historical
settlement. Built by Mormon pioneers with a
decided rural character. My family, from
Switzerland and the Netherlands. Settled
here in 1928 and 1949 respectively and have
lived here, to the present day. I have known
Sugar House when the edge of the village
was 10th East. We lived on 910 East Ramona
Ave. We have enjoyed the fine bungalow
residential character, with room for gardens,
trees,and parks (especially Fairmont Park
and Sugar House Park after the prison was
removed). The regular bus service has
provided us with ample access to the
downtown and University areas where our
family has worked (in times when cars were
not yet part of family possessions and in
times when, as senior citizens driving a car is
no longer advisable). The increase in
motorized traffic has become a concern. It
forces change that threatens the historic
character of Sugar House, because streets
have to be widened, buildings torn down,
gardens diminished to provide safe passage.
Mark McDonald
I am strongly opposed to the sugarhouse line
as a whole. However, if this is going to be
forced upon us, I believe the best routes
would be the 1100 East option presented in
the report compiled by the entity correctly
and adequately hired to do so. I do NOT
support any version of the street car
extension running up 2100 South.
Gayle Anderson
no to having streetcar go down 11th east.
More study needed before line is put in. go
east on 21st south would be my choice-more
room. Please do no have streetcar go down
11th east nor Hyland drive (also no to 1300
east) streets are too narrow and congested
all ready. Please widen 1300 and Hyland dr
as it was before lines were made one land.
No to pedestrians plaza-keep it the same.
More people go through sugar house and
only stop sometimes for shopping and honk.
sugar "hole" too many more people would
be living and working there-will be very
congested-street car won’t help.
Tracie Kirkham
Dear City Council, thank you for the
opportunity to express my opinion. i would
like to see master plan on the sugar house
area. I currently do not agree with the street
car alignment of 100 east. There is simply no
room. Interms of a 2100 south alignment...it
should be evaluated in terms of cost,
benefits, who is the targeted rider, etc... and
what would be the cost to ride on the street
car.
Willaim Ward
As a lifelong SL resident, I prefer that the
next phase of the streetcar/trolly continue
north on 100 east. The zoning, density and
land uses are perfectly situated to
accommodate a streetcar. If there is
opportunity now to keep the momentum
forward with the LPA then let’s do it. Yes
SLC needs a transit master plan, but i would
bet that they’ll discover that 100 east
makes god sense to have a streetcar.
Alicia Richardson
Dear City Council Leaders, I would like you to
know that I am a resident in the Country
Club area and would NOT like to see the
street car spur go up 2100 So. We have
enough congestion in the area I only think a
street car would add more congestion. More
congestion brings more traffic into our
neighborhood. More people into our
neighborhood brings more robberies,
menace and problems. We are contending
with the effects of Walmart and the traffic
that business creates and don’t need
more traffic. We have a nice freeway on and
off at the top of Parleys Way and a freeway
off/on ramp at 1300 East to present easy
access to the area. Please don’t BOTTLE
UP OUR ROADS!!!
Kaylene Hughes
Emily Potts
Randy Palmer
Barbara Boller
Lauri Duncombe
I feel having a street car on 100 east is a bad
idea. The street is to narrow and congested
to accommodate this. My 90 year old father
lives right on 100 east, it has been in the
family 90 years. Most of the homes on 100
east are very small driveways and no
parking. They are parking on the street. It is
only going to make it worse and more
chaotic. Why would we want to get rid of all
the cars. I won’t quit driving. Public
transit makes me sick, motion sickness and I
will never use it. Having such a narrow street
would only cause unsafe conditions.
Westminster College campus is so small, I
really don’t think it makes sense to
accommodate them they can walk.
Pro 2100 south
Leave the Trax at McClelland St. so that the
streets do not become more congested with
a trolly car.
I am against the street car proposal for 100
east. I am a resident for the last 15+ year. As
businesses on 21st south develop, our lovely
neighborhood has been victim of increased
traffic, speedy and degradation. We are 1
block west of 11th east one block north of 4
south-all residential. The street car proposed
does not take into account the way cards
looking for "shortcuts" around a street car
will stops. That migration of traffic is already
occurring due to poor overdeveloped and
lack of planning in out neighborhood. We
need protection and correction of
development in sugar house-bring the route
further east-stop suffocating the residential
neighborhood
air pollution is incresed energy generation is
not free. Destination to no where along
2100 south
Christina Kulakowskli
I am not in support of the 100 east street car
for the following reasons. 1-100 east is to
narrow and already too congested to
support parallel tracks for a street car. 2-A
street car on 100 east would ruin the small
community feel of sugar house and will
urbanize a neighborhood that is being
revitalized. 3-i am concerned that if the 100
east street car was built traffic would
increase on 1000 east, the street I live on.
1000 east is a family street as sugar house is
a family area neighborhood. The street car
will increase traffic in neighborhoods
ultimately creating dangerous roads for
children
Oletta Gummings
Westminster students are young, they can
walk up 5 blocks. I am older 68 and would
like to age in place in my sugar house home.
The street car would help me stay mobile on
21st south, not 1100 east.
Im 100% against on 1100 east and 2100
south. 1100 east is already to narrow for
traffic. Why is it even necessary?
I did a survey at gold’s gym, all i talked to
said not 11th east.
Bobbi Burton
I have lived in sugar house 34 yrs it has been
ruined by urban sprawl what once was a
quiet neighborhood is NOT anymore! Blue
Boutique was the initial downfall. TRAX up
21st and into the sugar house area will just
bring more RUIN to this area. Cars parked on
our quiet streets so people can take TRAX
into SLC and the work. Noisy people off to
ride TRAX. It will be like sugar house park on
the fourth of July. Why can’t we VOTE on
this issue?
Thea Brannon
Blain Sorenson
Cathy Walsh
I feel very strongly as a tax payer and as a
property owner in the Westminster vicinity
(rental property that my daughter will soon
reside in) that the 100 east or any other
alternative simply doesn’t make financial
sense as the optimal use of transportation.
2100 south seems to make the most sense
for the reasons that were listed by Luke and
Simonsen in their Op eds in the Tribune.
Miachel Browning
I think the 11th east route is a bad idea. 11th
east is tight and congested as it is. If the
street car goes to 17th or even 13th south,
it’s a train to nowhere. It would be better
to go to 13th east or 21st south. Tae the line
to foothill blvd. or down 13th east to
Westminster college. I don’t see the
need to take the line through the sugar
house business district at all. There is a stop
in sugar house. Its two short blocks from
everything. Hasn’t downtown sugar
house taken enough hit?
Robert Mayer
It’s a bit difficult to comment on vague
plans for a car expansion of public transit in
the part of the city, but i do not se the
national for expansion north ward on 11th
east. Close to 21 st south, 11th east is
already quite congested. I avoid the are now
for this reason, especially in the late
afternoon. Adding a streetcar would make
matters worse. As far as serving
Westminster students, why not save tens of
millions of dollars by providing a shuttle (the
way Georgetown university does in
Washington, DC>) Finally, if the streetcar is
going to move at the speed of traffic, better
bus service would be much less expensive
and far more flexible for the long term.
Lisa Monson
Trolley good idea-connecting our
neighborhoods would be great. But- Why do
the infrastructure? WHy not have natural
gas run trolleys that could drive where
needed? 21st to 9th east, etc... Easier to
manage longer distances sooner and easier.
Seasonal use, changing schedules. 11th east
is residential and is also congested. If
residence have a trolley track in front of
their homes, they will move. Our
neighborhood will turn to rentals.
Jessica Crouch
11th east is a very narrow street with a very
high traffic load. There will be extreme
difficulty for people to continue to drive on
this street if there is a trolley car (especially
trax line) if the eventual goal is to reduce
traffic and provide a service to the
community for future use, then the long
term future should be considered as well. A
single line will not suffice after a few years
and the reality of turning this into a dual line,
when there is already a lack of funding,
especially when there is no space will make
the street unusable for regular traffic and
then ultimately the business and local
economy will suffer. There are much better
(ie wider) options than 11th east that could
provide good access for a similar goal.
Sarah Woolsey
Dear Mr. Lamalfa. I am a concerned citizen
from Sugarhouse. I am concerned that you
are making decisions about the streetcar in
Sugarhouse based on business people's
interests and not citizens. I read a quote
from you in the SL Trib today. It might have
ben an incomplete quote, I would like to give
you a chance to explain yourself further--but
here is what it said- "business on 1100E are
the kind of service businesses that do not
require a car:salons, cafes, dance and yoga
studios, a post office." Your decision for the
streetcar in this quote is NOT taking the
neighborhood citizens into account. It seems
business are your focus. I live 1 block from
the proposed car. My street , the impact on
my home, neighbors, was not studied by the
transportation department like the impact
on business. No one has studied how this
street car will affect the cut through car
traffic onto Hollywood Av that risks children
and pedestrian safety. We already deal with
lots of stress from the busy rush hour
streets. I fear the Stcar will impact us event
more. When there are slow cars and backups-they cut right through and speed wast on
Hollywood to 900E. It happens Mon-Friday. I
live 24- 7 at my home. Business are there 9-
Tim Imaeu
11100 east already very busy and congested.
Current public transportation adequate-bus
lines on 1100/1300. Hard to find parking at
my house already, let alone when street side
parking gets removed on 100 east. North
line along 1300 east would serve a higher
population than 100 east. North line
terminating at 1700 south defeats the
purpose of connecting sugar house with the
trax line alone 4th south
Dale Southard
Council members, I would like to contribute
comments to the streetcar debate. I have
signed the petition at the Central Book
Exchange against the 11th East option and
watched the council meeting last night on
Channel 17 (love that service, BTW). There is
not much to add to what has already been
said, just our personal reasons why. My wife
and I have a very clear vision of what
Sugarhouse can become. I run my software
services business out of my home at 1978 S
800 E and spend VERY little time driving
anymore. My wife Diane Stewart was
recently licensed by the city to become the
first flower cart in Sugarhouse (Fleurs de
Diane). Her land use permit has her pushing
her cart to 1044 E 2100 S each day when the
weather cooperates. We believe Sugarhouse
can be a remarkable, vibrant neighborhood
the likes of which have never been seen in
the intermountain west. We get what a
lifestyle with minimal vehicle use can be and
are crafting a lifestyle towards that end; and
as such, are huge supporters of the
streetcar. We would love to be able to hop a
streetcar to Sugarhouse Park. Forget 11th
East northbound -- go east!
Stephen L. Ferris
As a resident in the area of 2100 East 2100
South, I would be much more inclined to use
public transportation if the Sugarhouse
streetcar route were to come east up 2100
South. More than my own needs, however, I
believe the east side community as a whole
would derive greater benefit from the
streetcar route going east up 2100 South
than north along 1100 East.
Tom Helme
Reliable, convenient public transportation
would be big help in improving the air
quality problems we have in this valley. The
trolley line extending east on 21st would be
helpful in reaching these goals.
David P Gall
Dear Council Members: At 9:15 PM last
night, when I left the public hearing, the
opinion tally was as follows: • 42 people
spoke in opposition to the scheme of the
extension thru Sugar House on 1100 East.
• 12 people supported the project. I
encourage further public hearings that are
well advertised so that Council can have a
broader perspective and truly understand
the opposition to this ill-conceived
“plan―
.
Susan Koelliker
I learned about the possibility of a streetcar
in my neighborhood this past week going up
21st I believe, after being at this meeting,
everyone here is pushing the 21st south
because they are against 11th east.
Unfortunately, my neighbors have only
learned about it this week or still don’t
know. I have four children that cross 21st to
school every day. A street car would be
extremely dangerous and underused in my
neighborhood. I carpool with neighbors
every day- we are concerned about our
environment and that is why we carpool. We
purchased out home to live in the city but
also to be accessible. I drive in sugar house
every day-the buses aren’t full and the
traffic is not an issue, please don’t take
what we love about our neighborhood!
Beverly Hawkins
I attended the City Council hearing on the
Sugarhouse streetcar this evening and have
a few comments. To the extent that this
would be part of an overall transportation
plan, and would improve public transit in
Salt Lake, I would support it. I have lived in
other cities where I relied exclusively on
public transit, walking or biking, and know
that when a system is good that people will
use it. I don't think Salt Lake has achieved
that level of service yet. And speaker after
speaker this evening referred to the fact that
there isn't a comprehensive transportation
plan in place. I believe that until such a plan
is set, it is foolish to extend streetcar routes
piecemeal. I am concerned about the
references I heard to form-based zoning
codes. I doubt that I fully understand this,
but I don't understand why the designation
of a streetcar route should be accompanied
by zoning changes that threaten existing
residential areas. The small businesses just
north of 2100 South on 1100 East are a great
example of using the existing residential
buildings for commercial purposes. They
blend in well and are part of the charm of
the area. I am concerned about the
disruption to traffic on streets as narrow as
Susan Hagen
Thank you for your recent flyer regarding the
Sugarhouse streetcar. Due to issues with
noise, traffic changes, safety, views and
costs the proposed route on 2100S I do not
support this proposal. Neither do I support
any trolley in in Sugarhouse as it is folley. It
creates new traffic, noise, construction and
cost issues undesirable in this neighborhood.
Dustin Campbell
David E. Petersen
Pam Cochran
I like the idea of a streetcar, but the car(s)
needs to be routed in a way that makes
sense for future expansion plans. And i
would like to know how much it will cost me.
Don't route it north on 1100 east from 2100
south. There's nothing to go to, it won't get
used.
This is a choice between to goo alternatives.
However, the main trax line west of West
Temple continues to receive more and more
Trax traffic. I believe that if the 1100 East
line is selected first, it will eventually drop
down to 900 East had head north to 400
South effectively by-passing the crowd line
near West Temple thereby providing a
second route to downtown. I think both the
routes should be done, but the 1100 East
Route first.
Opposes both routes. States that both
routes are too narrow. Not a good idea to
put the streetcar it on 11th East and 2100
South.
Anina Berthold
Barry Angstmon
Kelly Saunders
F. P. McNeil
Sren, No! to 21st South Extension for the
Sugarhouse Street Car. *The only business I
care about on 11th East is the Sugarhouse
Post Office, who, by the way....in case you or
others don't know contracts Harmon's @ the
Brickyard to run a PO office for
them=distributes back to them two times
daily. Rudy's Keys used to be on 11th East,
and now on 10th East north of Millie's
Burgers. ...(Rudy's being the close 1st to the
PO that I'd care about); 11th Est is alredy too
narrow and as gotten worse for 2 lanes of
vehicular traffic=PUT the extension either
going North OR even to the South going
along 11th East to 27th South, eventually
going somehow to the 33rd South area to
access Plowgian's Car repair which I haven't
been able to since UTA Bus Service ceased
going from K-Mart to I-215 and then down
33rd South many many years ago. I've lived
here since 1964 and hav never seen things
so disconnected since UTA became such an
elite entity?! LEAVE 21st South OUT of the
equasion...and am fervently opposed to it
EVER extending to 23rd South!!!???? So NOT
a proper, courteous, or "seeing the whole
picture" proposal for the future....
I am in favor of the tentative route to
highland high - and then up to 21 & 21. We
need viable alternatives for n/s
transportation on the east bench.
No to the extension of Sugar House trax
along 1100 e. north Support trax along 2100
s. to foothill drive east of 1300 east. No trax
between 1100 e and 133 e along 2100 s.
Extension on 1100 e, concerned of traffic
congestion and having a train so close to
residents. Don't feel there is adequate
business to justify line. Sugar house is not a
destinatin but rather a residential area. 1100
East "rail to no where."
Go east to 21st e & 23rd e then north to
foothill village and the U.
Sue Ann Jones
I am against the streetcar going east on 21st
south. Out children walk to school and cross
2100 south. It is more dangerous with
crossing with a streetcar. If we want a
walking community-lets walk. It is only 2
blocks from sugarhouse up to the park. We
can walk. There is no destination east on
21st south. 2100 south is a neighborhoodwe don’t want a street car changing it.
The buses are not full, we wont use a
streetcar either. 2100 south is a
neighborhood street. They city Council talks
about having a walking city-let us have it
Whitney Ward
The Street car should continue down 11 th
east to 900 south then run down to 900 east
to TRAX. This will serve more residents.
More businesses and connect to the U and
downtown more effectively
Renae Richards
I would like to add my voce to those
supporting the streetcar extension alternate
proposal east to 1300 East and Sugar House
Park. This allows the street car to connect
with the bicycle path, to a large community
park, and to a shopping center. I believe this
is a much more efficient use of public funds
than to fund transportation to one
educational institution. This gives east side
neighborhoods a connection to the west
side, and brings shoppers and recreators to a
highly desired area. I believe this will
generate more revenue for the city as well
as providing access to a wider variety of
options. In addition, since bus service was
gutted from the Sugar House neighborhoods
south of I-20 a few years ago, it gives us a
public transportation alternative.
Ned Skanchy
Benjamin W. Jordan
Michelle Watson
Mark
Dear Members of the City Council, I thank
you for your service to the community. You
have a profound impact on how our
community is shaped and I appreciate how
seriously you all take that responsibility. I
both live and work in Sugar House. I live off
of 1700 South and 2000 East and work off of
1200 East and 2100 South. Additionally, I
own two apartment building in Sugar House
with a total of 80 apartment units. Sugar
House is going thought some great changes
and I am optomistic about the future of this
area. However, I am concerned about the
impact on traffic the addition of some 2,500
new residents and 1,200 employees will
have on the already congested traffic along
2100 South and Highland Drive. I recently
had lunch at one of the restaurants in the
Sugar House with some business associates
and it was so congested getting to the
restaurant and so difficult to find parking
one of them commented, "this will probably
be the last time I come to this area for a
meal." I would be very sorry to have Sugar
House become so congested with traffic that
people start avoiding the area. I see the
extension of the street car along Highland
Drive and 1100 east as move in the wrong
I agree that we must have a comprehensive
city-wide transportation master plan before
an additional route is chosen. Why hasn't
there been discussion of bringing the
streetcar west through the Granary district
and out to the 900 S. 900 W. area? When
will this discussion happen without an
overall plan?
Opposes to both routes. Too much
congestion on streets already to add a
streetcar to the mix.
Supports the streetcar in Sugar house.
Suazanne Parry
Jordan Larsen
Jo Ann F. Syndergard
I am very against the street car in front of
my house. I am angry that no one was
informed about it going up 2100 south.
Charlie Luke has totally has not informed me
and the article he wrote in the newspaper
was false. I don't want more wires on my
street we have enough. I don't want my
taxes to go up to pay for it! I have lived on
this street for 62 years. I should have a say.
I do NOT want the street car to go down
11th east.
I do not want anymore congestion on 11th
east. NO it is already a pain on 11th east. We
have houses.
Butch Adams
I think it should go up Willington to thru the
edge of the park up to 21 st or 23rd east
north to veterans hospital & U of U. 11th
east is to congested now. The east side it &
made it unreal. If you are interested in
serving the east side it needs to go EAST!
I do not feel the 11th east option for the
streetcar is a viable option. the street is too
narrow to allow a safe bike travel, its already
too congested. Please look for better
options.
Gray Madrid
NO! to TRAX DOWN 1100 east. To congested
already, & getting bottled in. Fire,
Ambulance a lot harder to get to residents
who pay taxes. NO! NO! NO!
Reid Judd
putting the trolley down 11th east is a huge
mistake. 1- traffic would be terrible, we
couldn't get home. 2- it would ruin the
atmosphere of the whole area 3- go up 21 st
as suggested by the Council Member * Don't
go down 11th east!!
Merrill Syndergard
Scott Kisling
Councilmen Luke and Simonsen have both
articulated my concerns that this decision
residents should wait until a City wide
transportation plan has been made.
Residents east of 2100 east, which I
represent, prefer an alignment along 2110
south, eventually reaching the 21/21
Business district, the 2300 east/2100 south
business area and beyond, to invigorate
these areas that are ripe for redevelopment.
Other Reasons: 1- highest bus ridership in
City is 2100 south. 2- many employees
working in my area live in salt lake + west. 3many residents in my area work along 2100
south, west of I80. 4- Eventual light rail along
foothill to the south & to the east would
benefit from a feeder system like this. 5- I'm
tires of walling one mile to the 21 bus!
Alice Parkinson
If any street parking is taken out along 11th
east it will be harmful to small businesses on
11th east that depend on that parking. what
will happen to like lanes? why is the bus not
sufficient?
Mark & Debbie Unrah
I/live in the area. Have so far over 20 years.
we are strongly opposed to the streetcar
expansion down 1100 east. It is too small of
a street to provide this type of multiple use.
It is in our opinions not needed desired, or
safe. we are all for reducing pollution
throughout the City, so we are not against
public transit. Please create a master plan.
Please make wise decisions on where it is
placed. 1100 east just doesn't make sense.
Please keep us informed and included in a
transparent fashion.
Carol Carter
I represent ETC Group and ETC sugar house
LLC or small businesses and property owner
on 1100 east. We strongly support phase 2a
&2b (to 1100 east and 2100 south) and we
also support bringing the street car up to
1100 east and 1700 south.
Increase tax-yes! More stops on street yes!
Please listen to the voice of the people! NO
street car on Highland Dr. Thank you. Would
like to vote on this.
G. Kils
I prefer the east route toward highland high
for the following reasons: 1-enough
congestion at 2100 south/1100 east-give the
local businesses and residents a break. 2east route serves a more viable business
district. 3- ties in nicely with bus routes. 4allows for future expansion to the east and
north. 5- cheaper alternative.
Greg Schegel
LeeAnn Bywaters
Chirs Collier
Michael Glover
Sara Solaimania
Ken Wheadon
Dana Curtis
My biggest concern is that this street car
issue is down to the final approval and I just
got something in the mail about it 2 weeks
ago and it was the first I heard of it.
I support any street car plan as long as you
can still turn left.
the trolley on 1100 e is a bad idea because it
would necessitate tearing out the
beautification project to make room for
something ugly for our neighborhood!
I do not want the TRAX on 11th east because
it is a narrow congested street. I want it to
come up 21st south.
Street car should go east to foothill go north
on foothill connect to U of U TRAX. Ute
route 220 & 213 already drives to
Westminster College.
As a concerned resident and citizen of the
sugar house area. I am opposed to the
streetcar coming down 1100 east.
Kristin Riker
I am opposed to the 1100 east street car.
1100 east is a walling /biking community and
a street car would congest this area. I patron
boxing is for girls, fiddlers elbow, Millcreek
café, and Barnes and noble. Walking in this
community is a pleasant experience. I am for
public transportation expansion in particular
on 2100 south. this would serve Highland
High school students, and those who use
public transportation most, our youth and
young adults. thank you for your
consideration.
Heather Bradbury
prefer Alt B3 heading E on 2100 connecting
foot traffic to the park and high school. 11th
east from 21 to 1700. does not get foot
traffic and run risk of losing business.
Tagge Solaimanian
Dear Council Members, we have been small
business owner on 1100 east for the last 22
years. I wish the street car go to east on
2100 south. 1100 east is very congested and
narrow street. It make sense to me that
2100 south route will connect to U of U and
Hospital in the future.
Solissa Welden
I currently have a boutique on 1100 e. My
business would not survive the construction
nor do I think that going up 1100 e would
serve any purpose. It would destroy what
myself and other small business wonders
have worked so hard to keep afloat and my
business depends on loyal customers but
also random people driving up 1100 east. It
should go east on 2100 south towards the
park. I am passionate about this stupid idea.
Constance Cranptin
please listen to the people who live and
work here. 1100 east is too busy congested
narrow for the "mayors preferred plan" does
he live here? Work here? The east side
deserves some transit options all area school
would benefit form 2100 south plan.
Michael Bruschke
no "trolley" at all- 21 is already incredibly
congested is a trolley would certainly make
it worse. where would cyclist go? (small
street) what happens to the street parking
that businesses depend on? A trolley down
11th is equally as disastrous. NO TROLLEY!
Dan Flandro
1- the TRAX route up 21 south would A-jam
up an already difficult street. (I've lived here
60 years the TRAX should go north along
1300 east not 11th) this would allow TRAX
access to the U, Connection and allow. (the
Council who apparently allowed all the large
apartment complexes to have access to
Westminster the U and back to 4th south.
There's plenty of space on 13th east-east
south of the sizzler for a stop to be built.
DONT jam up 21st so for Highland. Its a block
walk through the park.
Mark Eliason
I really have appreciated the outreach o the
community regarding the very important
issue of the Sugarhouse Trolley. If the City
Council had not proceeded with this specific
peoples I do believe that the full weight of
the opinions of people would not have been
heard. I am a long time resident of Sugar
house and am against the development of
the street along 11th east. I have 5 children
several of whom attend Emerson
Elementary. I am concerned about how
narrow 11th east is, what would happen to
the bike lanes, weather there will more
accidences and the inconvenience due to
congestion on the street. My thanks for your
time in considering my opinion.
Bill Cordray
There are multiple long range impacts of
these two choices that require a more
thorough discussion with respect to City,
County transportation issues. we need to
solve these problems first. With the help of
an outside R/udat type group which has no
conflict of local interest. We should study
excellent transportation solutions such as
the ohiribitule, brazil Articulated bus routes
which enrich the City and connect to spokes
of trains that feed the City center, however,
if I had to choose now 21st south makes
more sense. I have no additional rational
that would include many more points that
you have not already heard. I do like ideas
that avoid the 21st/highland and 21st 13th
east intersections, such as routes via
Wilmington or Shopko, one radical option:
cross 13th east Wilmington and create a
streetcar line that accompanies the
proposed parleys trail and encircle the park
counter clockwise back to Wilmington, w/no
impact on streets.
Maocum
I am opposed to running a streetcar north on
1100 east. I strongly oppose the long term
plan for further extension to 900 south) This
street, in my opinion, should be, maintained
as a very bicycle and pedestrians friendly
street, with respect given to the residential
neighborhood. A streetcar will bring
additional noise, lighting, congestion
removal of trees, etc. Most of my neighbors
commute east (to the university, research
park, hospitals, schools not downtown)this
route does not enhance connectivity to
resources that are not already in easy
walking or cycling distance. Please use an
existing traffic through fare such as 21st
south, or 1300 east has better connectivity
potential with Westminster, U of U, east
high etc. 2100 south has better potential to
loop and link with both Westminster and the
U of U. I don't see this 1100 east route as
cycling friendly. I also view 11th rout as
limited access to my local post office.
Jon Roderick
STOP the proposed street car rail spur up
2100 South. The disruption, expense, and
absence of any demonstrable utility should
persuade you to leave the center of mass
transit activity in Sugarhouse, a long
established business district, but not to
extend it east. The area surrounding
Sugarhouse Park and east of it is a
neighborhood, not a destination. Without
careful thought and study, shared with all
concerned sufficient in advance to allow an
informed debate, your deciding to change
the aesthetic, the traffic flows, and really our
way of life would be bad policy, and a bad
precedent. We are the community on or
near 2100 South east of 1300. We vote. We
pay a lot in property taxes. We have worked
hard to make our neighborhood a great
place to live and raise our families. Please do
not create reasons for us to leave. Because
the City has shown no demonstrable need or
demand for these streetcars, and because
any demand is overwhelmingly outweighed
by the negatives, we are opposed to the
proposal to extend the rail spur up 2100
South. Please reject the proposal.
Annika Cook
Dear Salt Lake City Council, I just signed 2100
Against's petition "Salt Lake City Council:
STOP Street Car Rail Spur Up 2100 South" on
Change.org. Here's why I signed: This will
increase the theft in our neighborhoods if
we allow this. We already are a prime spot
for for targeted robberies in our area. I am
not interested in this.
Tyson Larsen
STOP the proposed street car rail spur up
2100 South. The disruption, expense, and
absence of any demonstrable utility should
persuade you to leave the center of mass
transit activity in Sugarhouse, a long
established business district, but not to
extend it east. The area surrounding
Sugarhouse Park and east of it is a
neighborhood, not a destination. Without
careful thought and study, shared with all
concerned sufficient in advance to allow an
informed debate, your deciding to change
the aesthetic, the traffic flows, and really our
way of life would be bad policy, and a bad
precedent. We are the community on or
near 2100 South east of 1300. We vote. We
pay a lot in property taxes. We have worked
hard to make our neighborhood a great
place to live and raise our families. Please do
not create reasons for us to leave. Because
the City has shown no demonstrable need or
demand for these streetcars, and because
any demand is overwhelmingly outweighed
by the negatives, we are opposed to the
proposal to extend the rail spur up 2100
South. Please reject the proposal.
Liz Cook
STOP the proposed street car rail spur up
2100 South. The disruption, expense, and
absence of any demonstrable utility should
persuade you to leave the center of mass
transit activity in Sugarhouse, a long
established business district, but not to
extend it east. The area surrounding
Sugarhouse Park and east of it is a
neighborhood, not a destination. Without
careful thought and study, shared with all
concerned sufficient in advance to allow an
informed debate, your deciding to change
the aesthetic, the traffic flows, and really our
way of life would be bad policy, and a bad
precedent. We are the community on or
near 2100 South east of 1300. We vote. We
pay a lot in property taxes. We have worked
hard to make our neighborhood a great
place to live and raise our families. Please do
not create reasons for us to leave. Because
the City has shown no demonstrable need or
demand for these streetcars, and because
any demand is overwhelmingly outweighed
by the negatives, we are opposed to the
proposal to extend the rail spur up 2100
South. Please reject the proposal.
Change.org
Dear Salt Lake City Council, 2100 Against
started a petition "Salt Lake City Council:
STOP Street Car Rail Spur Up 2100 South"
targeting you on Change.org that's starting
to pick up steam. Change.org is the world's
largest petition platform that gives anyone,
anywhere the tools they need to start, join
and win campaigns for change. Change.org
never starts petitions on our own -- petitions
on the website, like "Salt Lake City Council:
STOP Street Car Rail Spur Up 2100 South",
are started by users. While "Salt Lake City
Council: STOP Street Car Rail Spur Up 2100
South" is active, you'll receive an email each
time a signer leaves a comment explaining
why he or she is signing. You'll also receive
periodic updates about the petition's status.
Here's what you can do right now to resolve
the petition: • Review the petition. Here's
a link: o
http://www.change.org/petitions/salt-lakecity-council-stop-street-car-rail-spur-up-2100south • See the 5 signers and their
reasons for signing on the petition page. •
Respond to the petition creator by sending a
message here: o
http://www.change.org/petitions/salt-lakecity-council-stop-street-car-rail-spur-up-2100-
Lisa Stringham
Many children walk to Dilworth Elementary
and must cross 21st South. Due to safety
concerns, many parents choose to drive
their children to school bcause they feel the
intersection is not safe for their children to
cross by foot. This has greatly added to the
traffic during rush hour on 21st East. By
adding a trolly line , even more parents will
drive their children to school, adding to the
already horrible traffic in the area.
Jim Olson
Scott Sorensen
STOP the proposed street car rail spur up
2100 South. The disruption, expense, and
absence of any demonstrable utility should
persuade you to leave the center of mass
transit activity in Sugarhouse, a long
established business district, but not to
extend it east. The area surrounding
Sugarhouse Park and east of it is a
neighborhood, not a destination. Without
careful thought and study, shared with all
concerned sufficient in advance to allow an
informed debate, your deciding to change
the aesthetic, the traffic flows, and really our
way of life would be bad policy, and a bad
precedent. We are the community on or
near 2100 South east of 1300. We vote. We
pay a lot in property taxes. We have worked
hard to make our neighborhood a great
place to live and raise our families. Please do
not create reasons for us to leave. Because
the City has shown no demonstrable need or
demand for these streetcars, and because
any demand is overwhelmingly outweighed
by the negatives, we are opposed to the
proposal to extend the rail spur up 2100
South. Please reject the proposal.
Here's why I signed: Develop a well thought
out plan first - don't expand street car
service without first validating ridership/cost
assumptions of initial line set to run later
this year
John Stringham
I am opposed to the street car spur up 2100
South. Before doing anything further, the
city should develop a master plan. Taking a
spur up 2100 South increases the likelihood
of collisions by inexperienced drivers
attending Highland High. Hundreds of
children who attend Dilworth live South of
2100 and will have to cross an already busy
street to get to elementary school each day.
Adding a streetcar will unnecessarily
endanger the lives of those young children
and would add to the already heavy
congestion.
In listening to the discussion tonight at the
William Deutschman
city council meeting, I heard a number of
comments about the streetcar damaging the
pedestrian and bike experience along 1100
East. I cannot speak to the pedestrian
experience, but both my wife and I are daily
bike commuters in the area. I commute to
Westminster college and often ride to meet
my wife who bike commutes to the
sugarhouse clinic on Wilmington avenue. I
do have some concerns about the hazard
that the streetcar tracks pose to bicyclists.
That is pretty well documented. But, anyone
who tells you that putting a streetcar in will
ruin some idyllic bike transit option is
someone who has not ridden that area. 1100
east is a route of necessity or last resort for
bicyclists. Between the auto traffic, narrow
shoulders (at the south end) and seemingly
random driveways and parking areas, that
route is already quite dangerous for
bicyclists. Though I have no data to support
it, my strong hunch is that the re-planning of
the street that comes as part of the project
will make it safer than it is now. I have
ridden the streetcars in NW Portland, and
have observed the bicycle traffic there (as
seen through the eyes of someone who rides
Bryan Piteck
I wanted to email regarding the various
Sugarhouse Streetcar routes and the project
in general. I own a small business (The
Subway Sandwich Restaurant), on 2100 S
and 1000 E. While various transit options in
this area are considered it is my hope that
the City Council will pick the options that
least effect vehicular traffic in this area.
Particularly traffic flowing east and west on
2100 South. As you know this is a major flow
east to west in this part of town for vehicles.
Too often mass transit is opted for at the
expense of vehicle travel. The elimination of
vehicle travel lanes, extra traffic signals, and
other requirements of the mass transit
project can drastically effect vehicles
traveling in this area. Drivers can tend to
take other routes if these routes become
more congested for them, because of the
addition of the Streetcar. This can often at
best, provide a wash to the movement of
people in a given area. I am puzzled by the
recommended route of the project to North
on 1100 East. There does not seem to be
great need for this. Likewise going further
east from Sugarhouse Center to me, is
questionable. Thank you for your
consideration and I hope this will be
Tonia Torrence
Read your card, Of course going up
wilmington and then up 2100st to 17th E is
the best route. Glad to see that one of you
can think analytically So how much money
was wasted on worthless consultants with
worthless information. they must have been
related to someone in city payroll
Amanda Longwell
I’m writing about the possible expansion
of the street car along 1100 E and highland.
My opinion... BAD IDEA 1. 1100 E is TOO
NARROW for current traffic, parking and
pedestrians. 2. As a mom with young kids,
it’s nice to walk to the area stores,
however, it is already concerning enough to
take my kids on a walk in the area with as
congested it is, let alone add a street car will
just make it even less appealing to take my
kids on a walking excursion to the
shops/restaraunts (ps.. KEEP THE FLAGS...
add more if possible... Drivers really
don’t pay attention and having the extra
flag to draw attention to let them know to
stop helps A LOT) 3. the trax that will come
into sugarhouse, meets up with the trax that
goes north on 300 west that heads into
down town and up to the U.. there is no
need to add a street car on highland to go
north where there will already be an ability
to avoid driving to get to downtown or the U
via trax once the line is up and running into
sugarhouse 4. Adding a streetcar along
highland/1100 East will most likely wipe out
the ability for the 4th of july street fair to
occur since that would shut down the street
car line which I assume wouldn’t be
Ashley Eddington Hoopes
I am a resident of Salt Lake City. I am unable
to make tonight's hearing because of a sick
child. But I would like to express my support
for extending the Sugarhouse streetcar east.
I know many families who would utilize the
addition from the park, down to the
restaurants and shops, and back again.
Boller Robson Family
As residents representing 1011 E. Hollywood
and 1005 E. Hollywood Ave, one block east
of 1100 East (1945 South), we are
ADAMANTLY against the streetcar proposal
for 1100 East. We support mass
transportation, and support the streetcar
being reconsidered for 1300 East rather than
1100 East. Currently our neighborhood,
which is one block north of 2100 South is
being over whelmed by cars trying to avert
traffic on 2100 South, 9th East and 11th
East. We are burdened by non residential
traffic using our neighborhood as a shortcut,
and now increasingly, a parking lot for the
businesses/apartments on 2100 South and
1100 East. A streetcar on the narrow 1100
East would only increase cars trying to "get
around" areas they want to move through
quickly. We believe that in the short-term
the streetcar should extend east to 1300
East and Sugar House Park. This would sever
to connect the streetcar to all major bus
routes that serve Sugar House between 500
East and 1300 East, there by extending the
catchment area served by mass transit.
Using 1100 East would only serve to further
over burden the surrounding neighborhoods.
This highly contrary to a "walkable city".
Chari Engle
I do not think having Trax along 11th East
from 21st So. to l7th South would be cost
effective nor helpful to residents here in the
vicinity. 11th East is already narrow & adding
a Trax line would cause congestion that is
not needed. If future plans indicate Trax
traveling along 11th East further, it is already
blocked by the area around Judge Memorial
High School. It would be more feasible to
continue up farther east along 21st South.
The route continuing East along 21st South
would be a better solution. Westminster
Housing is already built/occupied(?) on 13th
East. Another apartment complex is now
being built on 21st So. & 11th East. A
potential passenger increase will soon be a
reality. The area along 11th East & 21st
South is a historic area which passengers can
now reach with Trax already available to that
destination. To continue on up East to Sugar
House Park and Highland Hi School would
service the East Bench population &
eventually continue on up towards the U of
U to complete the circle there and on
around to the down town area. I have been
a resident here in Sugar House just below
11th East for many, many years. I think the
other route will be best.
Kimberly Payne
I am a resident on Hollywood Avenue. My
street connects to 1100 East right before the
Sugar House post office. My concerns with
placing the Streetcar on 1100 East are the
following: I am concerned with additional
traffic driving through our residential
neighborhood when drivers choose not to
use 1100 East during construction
of/subsequent use of the Streetcar. I like the
charm of 1100 East as it is right now. It is
very pedestrian friendly. I don't want to lose
that. In my opinion, 1100 East is too narrow.
Why not place the Streetcar on 1300 East?
Doing so will still allow patrons to get to
Sugar House Park, Westminster College, and
a local High School. An additional advantage
would be that this line could tie in to the
East-West Trax line by the University of Utah
more readily than the 1100 East line, which
will be forced to turn at some point. Thank
you for considering these comments in this
important decision.
Robert Bereskin
To whom it may concern, Further traffic
congestion in the Sugarhouse area is not
needed. In my considerable experience, Salt
Lake City is one of the worst Western cities
in terms of traffic flow--has remained so for
the 29 years that I have lived here. If you like
1300 East and its crazy recent modification,
you might love 1100 East or 2100 South for
the same twisted reasons. The
consequences are obvious to me. Bike lanes
and streetcars are wonderful green ideas to
a point. The ramifications upon congested,
start-and -stop driving also need careful
consideration. We have done very little on
this issue as people will still drive cars willynilly in the City. I urge you to look at 1300
East as a analogue of what I would term
municipal meddling. Brigham Young did have
a good idea for SLC streets; we are slowly
making a mess of his foresight by going a bit
overboard in many cases.
Sabrina Scott
Dear Council Members, I've already
commented via OpenCityHall but I would like
to add my support again for the Eastern leg
of the streetcar as the first priority. I live just
off 1100 East and would love to have access
to the street car on 11th but I believe as
many others have pointed out that the
Eastern leg should receive priority. I must
add too, though not necessarily part of the
scope for street car improvements, conduit
for public fiber optic infrastructure must
become part of every single new
construction effort. In SLC, we are quickly
falling behind the country and the world
when it comes to affordable high speed
Internet. High speed (Gig+) networking
technology adoption must become part of
our city's strategic planning. It holds great
hope for solving some of our energy and
environmental problems.
Kelly Paasch
To Whom it May Concern; As a long time
resident of Sugar House, I have to agree with
Charlie Luke in his reasons for directing the
new trax line to 1700E to sugarhouse park.
In addition to his excellent points I think its
also important to note the number of
commuters that chose not to ride their bikes
instead of drive. When my schedule permits,
I chose to commute by bike as well. My
commute starts at about 2100 E and 2200 S
and ends at Salt Lake City Airport. There are
two sections of my commute that cause the
most danger. The first is Red Wood Road
(Now alleviated by the new airport trax) and
the second is 1700 S, 2100 S, or even 1300 S
between about 1100 E and 1500 E. 1700 S
has a ride as traffic bike zone that is very
dangerous, especially on the uphill. Cars
become quickly irritated with going at the
slow pace of a bike and often respond with
aggressive traffic deviations. This section is
so bad that I won't do the commute during
rush hour, low visibility, or bad road
conditions for fear of being involved in a
bike/car accident. Having a trax line that
safetly transported the commuter through
this section would make it plausible for most
of the year, and save significant stress on
J Niels
I received your letter today, regarding the
proposed street car extension. I've watched
with interest as the local news stations
report that the recommended extension run
North on 11th East. They've cited how
students at Westminster feel this would be
in the best interest of the city, but how
many Westminster students own property in
Salt Lake? How many plan on being here in
10 years? Not that students shouldn't have a
voice, but from the news coverage I've seen,
a small group from Westminster seem to be
the only proponents of a street car
extension running North on 11th East. It
seems the City Council is ready to force this
through without thinking it through. I'm a
life-long resident of Salt Lake City, and I own
a house a Wilson Ave between 11th East and
Westminster College. For whatever it's
worth, I feel that extending the street car
north on 11th East is a huge mistake. During
rush hour or lunch time, turning North or
South on 11th East is already next to
impossible. Traffic at the Post Office is
already a nightmare. A street car extension
going North on 11th East is going to cause
more congestion to an already congested
surface street, making it difficult for people
Tom Mumford
Soren, I cannot attend Tuesday's meeting,
but as property owner in your district, I
strongly agree with your proposal to extend
east on 21st south to 13th east, highland
high and beyond. That will connect vital
areas and provide much easier access for
many with less vehicle congestion. Thank
you for being forward thinking.
Mike Rasch
I am writing to express my support for
extending the streetcar line eastward from
1100 East to Sugarhouse Park and eventually
farther east on 2100 South, rather than
extending it to the north along 1100 East. I
am an apartment building owner near
Sugarhouse Park. Public transportation is
currently lacking in the area above 1300 East
along the 2100 South corridor. It is currently
inconvenient for my tenants and others
living in the area near Sugarhouse Park to
use public transportation to access the
downtown area, the University of Utah, and
the Foothill Village area. An eastward
extension of the streetcar line fits better
with existing public transportation and
planned future changes.
Hilary Pembroke
I have never understood why the streetcar is
stopping where it is. It makes no sense to
me. I have always wanted it to go to parleys
and 23rd east, then up 23rd east, foothill
and connect at university. We have the
schools and businesses, the park. 21st south
is so wide parallel to the park. People drive
crazy from 17th to 23rd. Bus service is
unreliable. But I think you can see the big
picture I have here. When I lived on Berkeley
and Oneida, I was so bummed it wasn't
coming up there. Now I'm in southwest end
of highland park. My street zenith is the
third thru way to highland/13th with
Stratford and 27th. 27th has more cars on it
than ever intended. It would be great to
have it come down 17th to 27th from 21st
south. Even imperial! I get so sick of driving
back and forth!!! Anyway I could go on
about it forever. I want it everywhere. But
having it up to 23rd and parleys to me is a no
brainer. Thanks so much!! Hilary Pembroke
F. Tempel Reikhof
I very much favor the recommendation
made by Soren Simonsen to plan the future
routing of the TRAX line through the
Sugarhouse area to proceed East along 2100
South rather than North along 1100 East.
Scott Stillman
I have seen all the reports and project
information. No where is there mention of
using a BUS system for any of these routes.
A dedicated BUS system could do ALL the
options stated in the proposals, cheaper
faster and more efficient. The BUS could be
designed to look like a streetcar to make the
diehards happy. It could actually drop people
off right at Westminister, instead of having
to walk up the hill, then go to Highland. The
BUS route could be changed and used for
special occasions, like the 4 July, shuttle to
Sugarhouse. A BUS system would not require
tracks and overhead wires. I think some
people are pushing a historic transportation
system for their own personal glory. With
the economy not as rebust as it once was we
really need to look at what is best for the
community and the pocketbook. A streetcar
in a residenial neighborhood, with limited
service and high cost is not practical. Its not
too late to change the plans.
Allen Barker
Thank you for sending the letter about the
public hearing about the future expansion of
TRAX. I read it carefully and agree with your
assessment/reasons on the benefits of
extending the streetcar east to 1300 East
and Sugarhouse Park. So please add me as
one who agrees with that proposal.
Regarding the City Council meeting on
Tuesday, April 23, I have a conflict with that
time, but would miss the conflicting
appointment if attending the City Council
meeting would be of benefit. I don't really
know if attending would show support or be
noticed. I couldn't add to the reasons you
have stated. Would the City Council ask
those attending for a vote on what they
want? If so, I would definitely attend. But if
not, my other meeting is also important.
Please advise. One other comment: Your
letter is dated April 12, but it arrived today,
April 20. Not much notice time about the
meeting on the 23rd. Also, where is the best
place to park around the City and County
Building?
Jon Merrill
Thank you for the letter regarding the new
streetcar route. I loved your ideas and
proposal of sending the street car East
rather than north. That makes much more
sense to me. I live at 12th E and 16th So. just
one block north of Westminster. I am unable
to attend the community input meeting as I
work nights but wanted you to know that I
loved your ideas and appreciate you
representing our neighborhoods so
conscientiously.
Becky Burbidge
We are residents of SLC and reside at 2246
Country Club Dr. We oppose extending Trax
all the way up 2100 South. This would
negatively impact our neighborhood. Our
understanding is that it was to turn at 1100
East and connect with Westminster and the
U of U. We feel this is still the best plan.
Nancy Huntsman
Dear Council Members, I own several rental
units just a block from the new streetcar
line. I am very excited about this important
addition to public transit. I know it will be of
significant interest and benefit to my
tenants, some of whom don't own cars. As
you contemplate the streetcar routing, I
hope you will give serious consideration to
the proposal that routes the streetcar to
Sugarhouse Park and further east toward the
high school. It only makes sense that the car
run to a site where existing density and
usage promises ridership. In addition to the
high school, the shopping corridor along 21st
will be well served. People don't ride public
transit for the view, they ride it to get
someplace. 2100 So and 1300 East is the
very core of Sugarhouse. Send the line to
where people need to go already! Thank you
for your consideration, Nancy Huntsman
Katie Eccles
I have grave concerns about the proposed
extension of the Sugarhouse streetcar
eastward up 2100 South that I just learned
about in a letter from Soren Simonsen. First,
despite the letter's assertions of new
residents in Sugarhouse, I am not convinced
that we have the densities in the greater
Sugarhouse neighborhoods to support the
necessary ridership of the streetcar and to
keep the costs down. Furthermore, without
a certain number of people opting for public
transport over driving their own car, there is
also not the associated easing of congestion
that is, simultaneously, aggravated by an
above-ground, on-street rail. Also, I am not
certain that there is any really draw for
riders to continue up 2100 East. The "21st
&21st business district" essentially consists
of a Great Harvest, a pilates studio, a corner
coffee shop and a diner, with no room for
expansion and it is next to an elementary
school. This is not a destination district
commensurate with 9th & 9th or even 15th
& 15th. Has an independent study been
conducted that establishes the number of
people who desire to go to the proposed
stops up the east of 2100 South and that
they will indeed ride a streetcar there?
David and Leslie Smoot
City Council Members, We are unable to
attend tonight’s City Council meeting,
but wanted our opinion to be heard. We live
on the East Bench, above Foothill Village.
Charlie Luke is our City Councilman. We take
The Tribune and appreciate the editorials
that have been written by the Councilmen
regarding the future Sugar House Streetcar
route. We have lived in our house for 20
years and have watched as our public
transportation options have gotten fewer. A
UTA bus used to come within a block of our
house; we now have to walk about a mile to
the nearest stop. We agree with Charlie
Luke’s statement that “the east
bench area is terribly underserved by public
transportation.―Our family uses public
transportation whenever possible, but its
current routes are inconvenient, at best. We
realize our teenagers who attend Highland
High and swim/work at Fairmont pool will
have graduated by the time this streetcar
option becomes available; however, as Mr.
Luke says, routing the Streetcar east
“demonstrates that the City is committed
to public transportation options for all of its
residents, and that there is a future for
reliable public transportation on the east
Mark Von Wagoner
STOP the proposed street car rail spur up
2100 South. The disruption, expense, and
absence of any demonstrable utility should
persuade you to leave the center of mass
transit activity in Sugarhouse, a long
established business district, but not to
extend it east. The area surrounding
Sugarhouse Park and east of it is a
neighborhood, not a destination. Without
careful thought and study, shared with all
concerned sufficient in advance to allow an
informed debate, your deciding to change
the aesthetic, the traffic flows, and really our
way of life would be bad policy, and a bad
precedent. We are the community on or
near 2100 South east of 1300. We vote. We
pay a lot in property taxes. We have worked
hard to make our neighborhood a great
place to live and raise our families. Please do
not create reasons for us to leave. Because
the City has shown no demonstrable need or
demand for these streetcars, and because
any demand is overwhelmingly outweighed
by the negatives, we are opposed to the
proposal to extend the rail spur up 2100
South. Please reject the proposal.
Wendy Carrigan
I am VERY opposed to this! Our little children
cross 2100 south to get to school every day.
It is already very dangerous and adding a
street car and more traffic would just
increase the danger to our children.We don't
need any more traffic than we already have.
This is a residential neighborhood. I don't
feel like we need it a street car any where
near our neighborhood. This would lower
the value of our property! It would make our
whole neighborhood less desirable. I don't
even feel like a street car should come in to
Sugar House at all. Sugar House is not that
kind of a community. It is a quaint little area
and does not need any more traffic than it
already has. It is already quite congested for
its size. Please do NOT put a street car in
Sugar house at all!! Thank you :)
Suzi Olson
STOP the proposed street car rail spur up
2100 South. The disruption, expense, and
absence of any demonstrable utility should
persuade you to leave the center of mass
transit activity in Sugarhouse, a long
established business district, but not to
extend it east. The area surrounding
Sugarhouse Park and east of it is a
neighborhood, not a destination. Without
careful thought and study, shared with all
concerned sufficient in advance to allow an
informed debate, your deciding to change
the aesthetic, the traffic flows, and really our
way of life would be bad policy, and a bad
precedent. We are the community on or
near 2100 South east of 1300. We vote. We
pay a lot in property taxes. We have worked
hard to make our neighborhood a great
place to live and raise our families. Please do
not create reasons for us to leave. Because
the City has shown no demonstrable need or
demand for these streetcars, and because
any demand is overwhelmingly outweighed
by the negatives, we are opposed to the
proposal to extend the rail spur up 2100
South. Please reject the proposal.
Emily Bullen
STOP the proposed street car rail spur up
2100 South. The disruption, expense, and
absence of any demonstrable utility should
persuade you to leave the center of mass
transit activity in Sugarhouse, a long
established business district, but not to
extend it east. The area surrounding
Sugarhouse Park and east of it is a
neighborhood, not a destination. Without
careful thought and study, shared with all
concerned sufficient in advance to allow an
informed debate, your deciding to change
the aesthetic, the traffic flows, and really our
way of life would be bad policy, and a bad
precedent. We are the community on or
near 2100 South east of 1300. We vote. We
pay a lot in property taxes. We have worked
hard to make our neighborhood a great
place to live and raise our families. Please do
not create reasons for us to leave. Because
the City has shown no demonstrable need or
demand for these streetcars, and because
any demand is overwhelmingly outweighed
by the negatives, we are opposed to the
proposal to extend the rail spur up 2100
South. Please reject the proposal.
Lorraine Chin
My Mother, Betty Chin who lives on 18th E.
and 21st So. requested that I write and let
you know of her opposition to the proposed
Trax extension to 23rd East in particular.
When she bought her home over 50 years
ago she envisioned a quiet and peaceful
residential neighborhood where one could
retire. This dream life away from noise and
traffic would be compromised as not
everyone wants to buy a house by Trax lines
and transportation hubs. The city is brought
to the neighborhoods doorstep. This can
work against homeowners living here and
can also bring down the desirability of
homes in what was zoned as a residential
neighborhood and once ideal location. The
new Trax/Sugar House Streetcar line being
built in the heart of Sugarhouse from the
Central Pointe Station should be sufficient to
move people to this vital area of commerce.
Bus connections would lessen the impact in
these underlining neighborhood spurs on
11th East to 8th So. or 21st So. to 23rd East.
Residential integrity would be maintained as
no one enjoys paying tax increases on what
is considered nonessential services. We need
to try and maintain the services we already
have. If the existing Trax lines and buses are
Jessica Hatch
Council members: I attended the April 4
meeting at Sprague Library. I have read a
major portion of the documents developing
the final alternatives for the Streetcar. I have
also read Councilmen Simonsen and
Luke’s comments. Their arguments are
well put. You have a very tough decision. In
the end I favor the B2 proposal—north on
1100 East to 1700 South because, from my
reading, it seems to best integrate with
larger master plans and future use
projections for transportation within the
Study Area, including possibilities for serving
existing and new mixed uses. While the
corridor is extremely narrow, there is no
alternative where road width is not a
challenge. I can live with the B3 – east on
2100 S. to 1700 East. Thank you for your
considered attention to this exciting project.
Don Avery
I am opposed to the Trax line options of
extending the line on 11th East to 8th South
or 21st South to 23rd East. Trax trains should
not run in residential neighborhoods. Buses
are cheaper, do the same job, and can be rerouted as needed. There is enough high
density development in Sugarhouse. I do not
want to see my taxes increase to pay for
additional Trax line construction and
maintenance. Thanks!
Sonja Heuscher
Hello City Council members, Thank you for
hosting the townhall meeting for the public.
I left a video comment at the meeting
regarding the streetcar routes. I live near the
7-11 that is on Highland Drive. I would love
to see a streetcar on Highland Drive. I also
think it would be great to have either a
street car or a dedicated trax line on 21st
South. Perhaps the monument plaza in
Sugarhouse would make a good
transportation hub for a north-south and
east-west streetcar lines. You were faced
with a lot of opposition to the streetcar at
the townhall meeting because people are
resistant to change and they love their cars.
I'm sure that you can come up with a design
that allows traffic to move past the street
car when it stops. I think that after the
streetcar is built, city residents will quickly
learn to love it as well. Thank you again and
good luck.
Nicole Herbert
What a joke! Sorry! 21st to 17th on 11th
EAst. Ripping up our darling city for a few
blocks trolley ride! Causing a huge increase
to traffic congestion that is ALREADY an
issue on 11th East and the disruption to ALL
our business on 11th is just ridiculous. We
don't want it! Take the bus or walk! Sugar
House is a walking and biking neighborhood.
Please don't clog us up and pollute our air by
piling up cars putting behind a trolley with 3
people on it. Thank you.
Robert Peacock
1) Stop where it is and monitor usage 2) How
will expansion be funded 3) Spend my tax
money for air traffic controllers benefitting
thousands not street cars for a few 4) 11th
East already too congested 5) Going down
21st S to 1700 or 2100 E is almost all
residential 6) 21st S is needed for people to
get to work, especially to the U 7) Many
major E/W Streets have already been
reduced by center turn lanes, and bike lanes
not being used and useless in the winter 8) If
you want to live where there are no cars,
move to the country this is a city. 9) High
school kids drive cars! 10) Buses are chaper
and more flexable
Laura Fuhriman
After listening to the comments at tonights
meeting I am concerned that there does not
seem to be a master plan in place. I saw the
proposed routes and not one of them goes
into Sugar House park which was one of the
main points talked about. In the literature
there was no mention of how this would
affect homeowners taxes. There does not
seem to be any option to not having the
streetcar in sugarhouse but just end it where
it is now being built. We would like to be
able to vote on these proposals.
Anne Cannon
I favor the street car line going east as the
next phase of this Sugar House transit line. I
feel we need to get going with transit on the
east side of our city. I hope the line will
eventually extend east to foothill Blvd. and
on north to the U of U and the Trax line
there. The eleventh East line in the future
will also be valuable as a north-south
connection along with a much needed city
wide transit plan to meet our multi-age,
business growth and future needs. Thank
you.
John Neville
* I don't think we need to expand the Sugar
House streetcar * The streetcar was sold to
us as a 2.5 mile slow streetcar to bring
shoppers to Sugar House. Not to disrupt the
neighborhoold. By expanding service will
increase the rail traffic likely include another
track. Likely impacting the neighborhood
feel. * If you must expand service there is
plenty of north south options already. I feel
there is not enough east-west service *Avoid
impacting 21st S 11th E intersection. It is
already too busy.
I would prefer to see the streetcar run up
sugarhouse park and up 2100 South
Susan Keynard for Donna Klenk (mother)
I am representing my 88 year old mother
who lives just west of westminster college
on Blaire Ave. I am concerned about the
accessability to her street. 11th East is the
only access to her home since 12th East was
closed off several years ago. If we need the
streetcar please send it up 21st not down
11th east.
Greg Bergmann
I would strongly prefer the streetcar to run
East-West along 2100 South to Sugar House
Parkn and beyond. We need more transit
services ont he East Bench. Westminster
College is too close to the Sugar House
Business District to warrant dedicated
streetcar service.
David Morrow
Kelly White
Although I don't live in Sugarhouse I spend a
lot of time shopping and visitng restaurants
in Sugar House. I am glad that the city is
investing in a streetcar. What I would like to
see is thqt the city will invest in
transportation on the East Bench. The east
bench is greatly underserved with very
limited to non-existent bus service and no
TRAX service. It would be nice if the
streetcar could East. I understand that the
consultant recommended the streecar head
north but I am concerned that route would
create more congestion in an laready busy
street. If eventually the streetcar was
expanded north beyond 1700 South it would
make more sense. It would be ideal if the car
could go east to Sugar House and go up 2100
South but if there could also be a route
north in 1100 East but farther then 1700
South which seems like a dead end route the
continue up to 900 South.
Kathy Hills
I am opposed because a lot of the people in
Sugar House can't afford to ride transit. I
personally find that I cang et to work faster
in my car (10 min) than using transit which
takes an hour tog et to work. I think you
should continue the tracks up through
Shopping Center by the theaters and Shopko
area to Sugarhouse Park. Then ahve the
TRAX circle the park back. The park could be
used as a park and ride area.
Clayton Helme
I would like the trolley line to go East on
2100 South up to the park and Highland
drive. It has been mentioned that
Sugarhouse Park was not part of the study
which I feel was a mistake. The Sugar House
Park is a big draw for many people and is the
main reason I think the streetcar should go
up to 2100 South.
Lisa Eisenberg
I feel that there needs to be more study and
consideration of a third alternative. Neither
2100 South nor 1100 East seems to be a
pleasant alternative. Those of us who live
close to Sugar House Park moved there
because of the natural beauty of the area;
Posts and lines for a streetcar would blight
the aesthetic value of a priceless view.
Ridership wiould not be sufficient to sacrifice
that which most residents prize the most.
1100 EAst is far too narrow and congest.
Why not consider 700 East and use busses as
connectors , similar to the "MARTA" system
in Atlanta or "MAX" ih Portland.
Felice Wafford.
Sheikh Safiullah
I am against the north proposed route for
the 1100 E streetcar which I would think
would be a tremendously bad mistake. I
think that would cause more congestion on
700 E, 500 E, and 1300 E which is already
clogging up because of more traffic due to
the initial first phase of the UTAstreetcar
project. IO think that just because we have
the FEderal money doesn't mean we have to
spend it quickly or without taking into effect
the economic, social, and environmental
impact and the business impact that 2100
South and 1100 Seast impact. If I had to pick
the lesser of two evils I would choose the
2100 South option instead of 11000 east.
That steeet is much too narrow and is
charming and quiant and I just think it would
be a disastorus decision and wrong one. Yes
it's gonna be troublesome. If I had to choose
completely I would say to end the trax line at
phase one it's not gonna help people to have
to walk it would actually be benefitcal to
walk it is a walking neighborhood sae as
mine. Walking is not a bad thing. Take this
into consideration.
I oppose Sugar House Streetcar route
beyond 900 East and 2100 South. I support
Mayor's plan to keep streetcar route up to
900 East and 2100 South. Please do not take
street car route toward East of 900 East.
Thank you.
Kathleen Parker
To who it may concern, Street cars or not!
Sugarhosue is and has been a large part of
my life, it is unique.When you made changes
to 11th east making it narrow, ahrd to park,
and it is just a mess. Next it was the holethat should never have been given the okay
to tear all the locations down and sirupt that
part of Sugarhouse. It is still a mess. Then
you get this bright idea of a street car to
Sugarhouse from South Salt Lake. Well, that
in itself will bring a lot of problems to the
area, that we have not had. Yes, you had the
track to Fairmont Park area. So you didn't
have to put out the money to start a new
line. Now you want to change 11th east
again as narrow as it is to put the streetcar
going North, what about the small business
and psot office and ho,mes that would be
effected. Again! Next to go up 21st south
that is another Fiasco, we hav always been
proud of our wide streets. Then north thru
quiet neighborhoods. What are you
thinking? I grew up with the streetcaron
17th east, they made the street wide to do
this. They were anxious to get them off
mains treet downtown. They are noisy.
Many of you never had the privelege of
living and growing up in the sugarhouse
Hilary Gordon
Jill and Kyle, I am a Police Officer with SLCPD,
I also live in Sugarhouse at 1038 East
Garfield Avenue. I just wanted to convey my
feelings about the street car that is proposed
to go down 1100 East. I am against the
street car. Frankly, I am tired of the city
narrowing every single street in the city. Not
everyone rides a bike. Not everyone has the
option of taking trax. There is still 6 months
of winter in Utah. I also feel that people are
very attached to their cars. They are not
going to stop driving their cars because a
street car gets put in. As a police officer who
lives in Sugarhouse, I do not have the option
of riding trax or a bike to work. I drive a
police car. The traffic is SO congested
because of the lack of roads for vehicles that
this is only going to make things worse.
Responding to calls is harder. Serving the
public is getting really difficult when you
can’t get anywhere due to the lack of
roads. Making a street car up 2100 South or
down 1100 East is only going to make it
worse. With all of the buildings and
apartments going up in Sugarhouse…this is
going to add more traffic. Most people in
that area will NOT use trax or the street car,
it doesn’t serve a purpose for the people
Hilary Gordon
Jill and Kyle, I am a Police Officer with SLCPD,
I also live in Sugarhouse at 1038 East
Garfield Avenue. I just wanted to convey my
feelings about the street car that is proposed
to go down 1100 East. I am against the
street car. Frankly, I am tired of the city
narrowing every single street in the city. Not
everyone rides a bike. Not everyone has the
option of taking trax. There is still 6 months
of winter in Utah. I also feel that people are
very attached to their cars. They are not
going to stop driving their cars because a
street car gets put in. As a police officer who
lives in Sugarhouse, I do not have the option
of riding trax or a bike to work. I drive a
police car. The traffic is SO congested
because of the lack of roads for vehicles that
this is only going to make things worse.
Responding to calls is harder. Serving the
public is getting really difficult when you
can’t get anywhere due to the lack of
roads. Making a street car up 2100 South or
down 1100 East is only going to make it
worse. With all of the buildings and
apartments going up in Sugarhouse…this is
going to add more traffic. Most people in
that area will NOT use trax or the street car,
it doesn’t serve a purpose for the people
Hilary Gordon
I am a Police Officer with SLCPD, I also live in
Sugarhouse at 1038 East Garfield Avenue. I
just wanted to convey my feelings about the
street car that is proposed to go down 1100
East. I am against the street car. Frankly, I
am tired of the city narrowing every single
street in the city. Not everyone rides a bike.
Not everyone has the option of taking trax.
There is still 6 months of winter in Utah. I
also feel that people are very attached to
their cars. They are not going to stop driving
their cars because a street car gets put in. As
a police officer who lives in Sugarhouse, I do
not have the option of riding trax or a bike to
work. I drive a police car. The traffic is SO
congested because of the lack of roads for
vehicles that this is only going to make
things worse. Responding to calls is harder.
Serving the public is getting really difficult
when you can’t get anywhere due to the
lack of roads. Making a street car up 2100
South or down 1100 East is only going to
make it worse. With all of the buildings and
apartments going up in Sugarhouse…this is
going to add more traffic. Most people in
that area will NOT use trax or the street car,
it doesn’t serve a purpose for the people
who actually live in Sugarhouse. I also
Unknown - Voicemail - Comment Line
This constituent was not able to make the
streetcar public hearing. The constituents
family has lived on Blain Ave since 1938 and
does not want a streetcar extension on 11th
East. She voices that it is a residential area
and pleads with the council to not ruin the
atmosphere on 11th East with a streetcar.
She also states that she has 8 votes against
this route.
Gael Murdock
Regarding the Sugarhouse Trax proposal, I
am vehemently opposed to extending the
'trolley' line north on 11th east. The 21st
south makes much more sense for all the
reasons we are hearing in the media.
Additionally, I teach special education
students at Highland High School. All are
involved in vocational training within the
Sugarhouse community. Access to business
sites they will be able to utilize for training
purposes will be immensely expanded with
the Trax on 21st. I have owned 3 rentals and
a residence in the Sugarhouse area. There
exists a certain comfort and open feeling in
this neighborhood. It is one of two areas that
exude an "Old Town" feeling in Salt Lake, the
9th and 9th area being the other. That area
additionally has the potential to be disrupted
in the future as I understand it. Once this
ambience and 'funkiness' is gone, it won't
miraculously recreate itself. Where
realistically will the 'trolley' proceed after
this? Whatever choice is designated will be
on narrow streets with home after home. Is
there not an ethical aspect of what we are
doing? Salt Lake City saw what happened to
the businesses on Main Street during the
Trax construction. Yes, the economy appears
Kathryn Van Wagoner
STOP the proposed street car rail spur up
2100 South. The disruption, expense, and
absence of any demonstrable utility should
persuade you to leave the center of mass
transit activity in Sugarhouse, a long
established business district, but not to
extend it east. The area surrounding
Sugarhouse Park and east of it is a
neighborhood, not a destination. Without
careful thought and study, shared with all
concerned sufficient in advance to allow an
informed debate, your deciding to change
the aesthetic, the traffic flows, and really our
way of life would be bad policy, and a bad
precedent. We are the community on or
near 2100 South east of 1300. We vote. We
pay a lot in property taxes. We have worked
hard to make our neighborhood a great
place to live and raise our families. Please do
not create reasons for us to leave. Because
the City has shown no demonstrable need or
demand for these streetcars, and because
any demand is overwhelmingly outweighed
by the negatives, we are opposed to the
proposal to extend the rail spur up 2100
South. Please reject the proposal.
Elizabeth Bradely
STOP the proposed street car rail spur up
2100 South. The disruption, expense, and
absence of any demonstrable utility should
persuade you to leave the center of mass
transit activity in Sugarhouse, a long
established business district, but not to
extend it east. The area surrounding
Sugarhouse Park and east of it is a
neighborhood, not a destination. Without
careful thought and study, shared with all
concerned sufficient in advance to allow an
informed debate, your deciding to change
the aesthetic, the traffic flows, and really our
way of life would be bad policy, and a bad
precedent. We are the community on or
near 2100 South east of 1300. We vote. We
pay a lot in property taxes. We have worked
hard to make our neighborhood a great
place to live and raise our families. Please do
not create reasons for us to leave. Because
the City has shown no demonstrable need or
demand for these streetcars, and because
any demand is overwhelmingly outweighed
by the negatives, we are opposed to the
proposal to extend the rail spur up 2100
South. Please reject the proposal.
Nancy Olsen
STOP the proposed street car rail spur up
2100 South. The disruption, expense, and
absence of any demonstrable utility should
persuade you to leave the center of mass
transit activity in Sugarhouse, a long
established business district, but not to
extend it east. The area surrounding
Sugarhouse Park and east of it is a
neighborhood, not a destination. Without
careful thought and study, shared with all
concerned sufficient in advance to allow an
informed debate, your deciding to change
the aesthetic, the traffic flows, and really our
way of life would be bad policy, and a bad
precedent. We are the community on or
near 2100 South east of 1300. We vote. We
pay a lot in property taxes. We have worked
hard to make our neighborhood a great
place to live and raise our families. Please do
not create reasons for us to leave. Because
the City has shown no demonstrable need or
demand for these streetcars, and because
any demand is overwhelmingly outweighed
by the negatives, we are opposed to the
proposal to extend the rail spur up 2100
South. Please reject the proposal.
Mark Cook
STOP the proposed street car rail spur up
2100 South. The disruption, expense, and
absence of any demonstrable utility should
persuade you to leave the center of mass
transit activity in Sugarhouse, a long
established business district, but not to
extend it east. The area surrounding
Sugarhouse Park and east of it is a
neighborhood, not a destination. Without
careful thought and study, shared with all
concerned sufficient in advance to allow an
informed debate, your deciding to change
the aesthetic, the traffic flows, and really our
way of life would be bad policy, and a bad
precedent. We are the community on or
near 2100 South east of 1300. We vote. We
pay a lot in property taxes. We have worked
hard to make our neighborhood a great
place to live and raise our families. Please do
not create reasons for us to leave. Because
the City has shown no demonstrable need or
demand for these streetcars, and because
any demand is overwhelmingly outweighed
by the negatives, we are opposed to the
proposal to extend the rail spur up 2100
South. Please reject the proposal.
Carol Sperry
STOP the proposed street car rail spur up
2100 South. The disruption, expense, and
absence of any demonstrable utility should
persuade you to leave the center of mass
transit activity in Sugarhouse, a long
established business district, but not to
extend it east. The area surrounding
Sugarhouse Park and east of it is a
neighborhood, not a destination. Without
careful thought and study, shared with all
concerned sufficient in advance to allow an
informed debate, your deciding to change
the aesthetic, the traffic flows, and really our
way of life would be bad policy, and a bad
precedent. We are the community on or
near 2100 South east of 1300. We vote. We
pay a lot in property taxes. We have worked
hard to make our neighborhood a great
place to live and raise our families. Please do
not create reasons for us to leave. Because
the City has shown no demonstrable need or
demand for these streetcars, and because
any demand is overwhelmingly outweighed
by the negatives, we are opposed to the
proposal to extend the rail spur up 2100
South. Please reject the proposal.
Elliot Morris
This is absurd. What are the destinations
that are so desirable on 2100 S? Fresh
Market? McDonalds? Not sure what the
purpose of having a trolley car up 2100 S is.
If the people in those neighborhoods wanted
to live an urban area, they would have. This
would bring unnecessary traffic to the area. I
have not been able to read anything where
there are scores of people dying to take a
trolley up 2100 S so they can go to Hunan
Garden or the Yogurt shop. And we haven't
even talked about the children who cross
2100 S to attend Dilworth, Highland High,
and Hillside. This is a poor idea, and I have
yet to hear a well thought out proposal.
Brent Mabey
STOP the proposed street car rail spur up
2100 South. The disruption, expense, and
absence of any demonstrable utility should
persuade you to leave the center of mass
transit activity in Sugarhouse, a long
established business district, but not to
extend it east. The area surrounding
Sugarhouse Park and east of it is a
neighborhood, not a destination. Without
careful thought and study, shared with all
concerned sufficient in advance to allow an
informed debate, your deciding to change
the aesthetic, the traffic flows, and really our
way of life would be bad policy, and a bad
precedent. We are the community on or
near 2100 South east of 1300. We vote. We
pay a lot in property taxes. We have worked
hard to make our neighborhood a great
place to live and raise our families. Please do
not create reasons for us to leave. Because
the City has shown no demonstrable need or
demand for these streetcars, and because
any demand is overwhelmingly outweighed
by the negatives, we are opposed to the
proposal to extend the rail spur up 2100
South. Please reject the proposal.
Cary Berg
#1. I live right off Parleys Way/2100 S. The
traffic and crime has increased immensely
since the opening of Walmart. I watch cars
get off from the Parley's exit and travel
down into the neighborhoods (especially
Lynwood because we don't have speed
bumps like Maywood does) Most cars are
trying to get to the country club and 2700 S.
Others are coming from Walmart trying to
find a way over to 33rd. there isnt one! The
gully on 2000 E is the only way out and that
leaves all our neighborhood streets with
quiet families and children playing for traffic
to carouse through. Crime is up! Damage is
mounting! Don't add to it! It is maddening
that anyone thinks we need to add another
reason for people to travel through our
beautiful neighborhoods. #2. There is no
need for this kind of transportation,
especially when there is a bus route no one
uses anyway. The route has already been
limited because of lack of need. #3. I cannot
begin to describe the problems this would
cause and the division it would create
between our school community. 2100S is
already a bit of a barrier between schools
and the community. We strive to befriend
and cross the divide as much as possible.
Catherine McNally
STOP the proposed street car rail spur up
2100 South. The disruption, expense, and
absence of any demonstrable utility should
persuade you to leave the center of mass
transit activity in Sugarhouse, a long
established business district, but not to
extend it east. The area surrounding
Sugarhouse Park and east of it is a
neighborhood, not a destination. Without
careful thought and study, shared with all
concerned sufficient in advance to allow an
informed debate, your deciding to change
the aesthetic, the traffic flows, and really our
way of life would be bad policy, and a bad
precedent. We are the community on or
near 2100 South east of 1300. We vote. We
pay a lot in property taxes. We have worked
hard to make our neighborhood a great
place to live and raise our families. Please do
not create reasons for us to leave. Because
the City has shown no demonstrable need or
demand for these streetcars, and because
any demand is overwhelmingly outweighed
by the negatives, we are opposed to the
proposal to extend the rail spur up 2100
South. Please reject the proposal.
Extending the spur beyond 1300 East would
definitely disrupt and pollute the
overwhelmingly residential areas on both
sides of 2100 South for the possible benefit
of a handful of small businesses. Simply, the
costs to many far outweigh the benefits to a
few.
Unknown Council - Comment Line
Caller is opposed to having the streetcar
route on 11th East. He believes that there
was not enough public notification of the
proposed routes and wants more public
discussion.
Paul Bradley
Scott Smith
STOP the proposed street car rail spur up
2100 South. The disruption, expense, and
absence of any demonstrable utility should
persuade you to leave the center of mass
transit activity in Sugarhouse, a long
established business district, but not to
extend it east. The area surrounding
Sugarhouse Park and east of it is a
neighborhood, not a destination. Without
careful thought and study, shared with all
concerned sufficient in advance to allow an
informed debate, your deciding to change
the aesthetic, the traffic flows, and really our
way of life would be bad policy, and a bad
precedent. We are the community on or
near 2100 South east of 1300. We vote. We
pay a lot in property taxes. We have worked
hard to make our neighborhood a great
place to live and raise our families. Please do
not create reasons for us to leave. Because
the City has shown no demonstrable need or
demand for these streetcars, and because
any demand is overwhelmingly outweighed
by the negatives, we are opposed to the
proposal to extend the rail spur up 2100
South. Please reject the proposal.
Katy Smith
STOP the proposed street car rail spur up
2100 South. The disruption, expense, and
absence of any demonstrable utility should
persuade you to leave the center of mass
transit activity in Sugarhouse, a long
established business district, but not to
extend it east. The area surrounding
Sugarhouse Park and east of it is a
neighborhood, not a destination. Without
careful thought and study, shared with all
concerned sufficient in advance to allow an
informed debate, your deciding to change
the aesthetic, the traffic flows, and really our
way of life would be bad policy, and a bad
precedent. We are the community on or
near 2100 South east of 1300. We vote. We
pay a lot in property taxes. We have worked
hard to make our neighborhood a great
place to live and raise our families. Please do
not create reasons for us to leave. Because
the City has shown no demonstrable need or
demand for these streetcars, and because
any demand is overwhelmingly outweighed
by the negatives, we are opposed to the
proposal to extend the rail spur up 2100
South. Please reject the proposal.
Council Comment Line - Message from
Unknown
Constituent strongly supports the 21st south
streetcar route. She feels that the 11th East
route is a bad place to have the streetcar
and it’s a waste of energy.
Council Comment Line - Unknown voice
message
Constituent wants the streetcar to run on
7th East or to turn it around on 2100 South
and go the other direction. She believes that
both No residential streets, there is already
too many traffic Unknown
Susan Koelliker
Trax trains should not run in a residential
neighborhood. I have watched the buses run
up 21st South this past week and have seen
less than 5 people on each bus. I am
extremely concerned about our children's
safety, as well. It is a huge disruption,
expense, and unnecessary. Please take your
time and figure out where it can be better
utilized. Thanks
Brett Parkin
Dear Salt Lake City Council, I just signed 2100
Against's petition "Salt Lake City Council:
STOP Street Car Rail Spur Up 2100 South" on
Change.org. Here's why I signed: Increased
traffic is a huge safety concern for our
children. Sincerely, Brett Parkin Salt Lake
City, Utah
Nancy Warr
Amy Bradford
Trax should not be in mutliple school zones
Keeping school areas safe and
neighborhoods safe.
Sharon Jorgenson
There are hundreds of students going to and
from Dilworth, Hillside, and Highland who
walk, bike and drive on or across 2100
South. This presents a huge safety risk for
our children. We choose to live in this
neighborhood because it is residential, not
commercial! It should remain that way. It
makes more sense to have natural gas
powered buses. They would be less
expensive, less invasive, and have the
flexibility to alter routes as needed. Even
then, bus routes have decreased in this area
for lack of use. It doesn't make sense to
spend all that money to cement in rails for a
train that we're not sure people will ride.
Marge Sorensen
I am against the streetcar on 2100 South.
Traffic is already congested, it is a safety
hazard for my kids walking to school, it won't
be used and is a waste of money.
Natalie Smith
Katherine Allen
Sam Morgan
Jim Boyce
WE don't need more congestion by our
homes.
I think there is already congestion and many
bottlenecks along 21st South and don't feel
like there is that much need for the street
car to continue beyond Sugarhouse.
it will hamper and endanger motorists &
pedestrians and residents (AND we can't
afford it, and I don't want to see TRAX grow
into the IRS!)
Safety across 2100 So and government
expenditures. Many neighbors in the area
will not use light rail.
Jackson Stott
I would like to see any study that shows how
benefits would outway the negitives of
having a trax line run up an already
congested street through a primarily
residential neighborhood. My bet is buses
could do a better job moving those that use
public transportation through this area,
without wasting so many premium tax
dollars and compromising safety. I would
also love to know why there is such a rush
on this issue?
Sugarhouse is an amazing area, and
something like this will ruin the atmosphere
of this cute destination!
to keep this area quiet and it's neighborhood
feel
Pam croft
Tara Bates
This will create traffic congestion not reduce
traffic. 1300 East is a perfect example.
this is one of the dumbest ideas ever
Suzzanne Hawker
Sugarhouse has been revived by many great
new places and it is already so congested
driving through. Safety and time are huge
components to me signing this petition!!
Kellee Knight
Brynn Duerden
Brooke Murdock
I am writing you in hopes that you can
answer a question before you move a head
on the street car plan. Why WHY would you
want to dig up our streets and add power
poles etc, when a bus (perhaps a smaller
model that is powered by natural gas) could
do the same thing and I would think at a lot
less cost. PLEASE PLEASE have a good
answer to this question before you move
ahead on this street car plan. It seems to me
that's there's more to this than meets the
eye or that common sense has been tossed
out the window.
We don't need any more congestion along
2100 south
Dan Cimbora
Development for its own sake is not
welcome in my neighborhood -- especially if
it negatively impacts quality of life for NO
discernible benefit. Is there some secret
group of people secretly clamoring for a
street car to get from Sugarhouse park to
Barnes and Noble??!? And for this you're
going to screw up traffic on an already
congested and dangers 2100 South -perhaps even 2100 E or 2300 E with their
multiple schools and crosswalks??!!?!?
Come on Soren and the rest of you -- quit
proposing and pushing these ridiculous
projects on us -- I'm growing wearing of
having to remind you we like our quiet,
residential neighborhood. That's why we
CHOSE to live here. Quit trying to "improve"
it for us. Wanna spend our money? Fix the
damn potholes and water lines instead.
Michael Thomas
Absolutely horrible for this residential
community. In 15 years, you would be taking
the tracks out. Let's be sensible and not just
spend tax dollars in trying to be "green".
Jolene Anderson
Michael Garff
Craig Proctor
It will turn our residential neighborhood into
a commercial center. Create traffic on 2100
E. Increase crime.
We live in a small community that would not
really benefit from the proposed rail car
sysem. Lets use money to fund other worthy
projects.
Kathleen Dibble
There is no compelling reason to expand the
train service into this residential
neighborhood. The costs in tax dollars,
danger to our children trying to get to
school, and traffic congestion certainly
outweigh any possible benefit from
economic development.
Traffic in the sugar house area is already so
congested, adding a rail line would make
even worse!
Jill Anderson
I live and work near 2100 South. I travel that
road daily and DO NOT want to compete
with the rails and DO NOT want our school
children to have to cross the tracks to get to
school and friends homes.
Caroline Winter
Liz Raybould
Heidi Bennett
I don't understand a significant need for the
train. I hope the current bus routes provide
sufficient transportation. Yet the possible
risk of young children crossing in front of
trains is reason enough to oppose this rail
spur.
don't want the street car rail spur in our
neighborhood
Alex Bennet
There are many other city/state initiatives
that are worthy of taxpayers' (local, state
and federal) funds at this time. We need
more quality teachers for our kids, school
supplies, re-paving of existing roads that are
becoming dangerous to cars and bicycles,
technology infrastructure (e.g. fiber optic
lines), green space improvements, new
sewage and water lines (ask our neighbors
on 2100 S. and 2000 E.), updates to our
aging and unsightly above ground power
lines, bike lane maintenance, more recycling
stations, etc. While public transportation
improvements can and have helped specific
areas of our community, the socioeconomic
and demographic make-up the Highland and
Parleys neighborhoods do not justify the
cost and usage return on this investment.
The 2000 US Census indicates that only 5.6%
(5,358 people) of Salt Lake City residents
commute to work on public transportation. I
would like our city councilman to show us
public transportation usage numbers for
buses and light rail for residents in the
Highland and Parleys neighborhoods. An
educated guess would be that usage for
these areas is well below the city average for
a number of reasons, including: proximity to
This is such a poor idea to even the most
casual of observers. Alex.
Blair Poelman
I think the WHOLE thing is a waste of money
and will disrupt traffic. It's a boondoggle to
get federal money, just like TRAX. Commuter
service to town from my neighborhood was
better before TRAX was built. This is just
more of the same ill-advised grasping for
dollars.
Todd Nordstrom
I am concerned about the traffic disruption
and expense. I also don't see a "need" for
mass transit to run up 2100 S. I also don't
appreciate the word game of calling it a
"Trolley". It's insulting.
Ron Pynes
Mignon Griffiths
It will destroy the Neighborhood in the
Sugarhouse
Kathryn Connor
2100 south is already congested and narrow
without a turn lane. It seems the last thing
we need is a train running up the middle of
what should remain a residential street.
Heather Boyce
Marianne Silver
We walk to and from school and cross 2100
South. I would like to see them really put
some thought in how to make 21st and 21st
more school crossing friendly and safer for
these kids to cross. I am also concerned
about the people it will bring into the
neighborhoods.
Better bus routes is all that is needed!
Melanie McMicken
The expense to ride public transit has lent
this a means of transportation that I
wouldn't use, nor would my neighbors. We
drive our kids to school because it isn't cost
effective to use the bus... Therefore I can't
see us using this mode either, as well as it is
disruptive to our neighborhood
Nicole Miller
It severely affects the close neighborhood
atmosphere by changing zoning
Trax would not serve a purpose on 21st
South past 1300 East. Why? Because it's
residential. Have you driven up 21st? Is not
even busy with car traffic, so what makes
anyone think people need Trax to take them
to, uh, the random yogurt shop or the
defunct dry cleaners? The bus route takes
care of that. The noise, construction, and
lack of usage are not needed in the
residential area of 21st South, past 1300
East.
Dave Jorgensen
It will be a danger to many people and kids
traveling to and from school, plus there is
not enough room to function on 2100 South
right now with two lanes!
Scott Peterson
Deanna Agbor
I am against having any trolley streetcar on
2100 s or 2300 E or any other place on
Sugarhouse where we are raising families
Hadley Saber
I feel the safety and integrity of the
neighborhoods are at risk if trax runs on
2100 S and 2300 East. I believe it serves a
more functional benefit to the community in
more central urban areas.
it will make getting to school harder
Safety of children going/coming home from
school. Discourages walking.
Steven L Hope
I support your proposal for any further
extensions of the subject streetcar to
proceed eastward. It makes no sense to
extend northward into the already walk-able
neighborhood along 11th East. I own
property along 11th East and would be
adversely impacted by the streetcar. The
width of the road would preclude existing
parking and bike lanes. Further, with recent
city zoning doubling the amount of streetside parking allowed for businesses,
residents would be inconvenienced by loss
of parking along 11th East for businesses.
This would force business clientele to park in
front of residential homes on the side
streets adjacent to 11th East. Please be firm
in your opposition to any northward
extension along 11th East of the Sugarhouse
Streetcar
Amyu Still
Sarah Eggli
Jane and Rolando Gonzalez
Rolando and I cannot attend tonight's
meeting. We really don't care for the idea of
a street car in Sugar House at all because it is
already so congested there. It seems that
the bus service should meet most needs
there, but then we don't take public
transportation there. If the street car is to
be, then we vote for your plan of the east
alignment and feel that 2100 S. is the best
route...although that even seems to us to
add to the congestion there. Do we really
need a streetcar at all to provide public
transportation
thecard
eaststock
bench??
You sent a one to
page
document
nielsenk@q.com
related to Sugarhouse Street Car by mail to
District 6 Residents. Thank you. We only
recieved it last Friday! Less that a week
before you intend to take action? The text
seems clearly drafted to influence some
understanding and position. We question
Your reasons. 1. SLC has many Public Parks.
Some larger than Sugarhosue Park.
Sugarhouse park is not SLC Central Park.
They have one of those. Its charter and
purpose is Not a Regional Park. 2. How can a
Redevelopment Area be less conjested with
more development and density planned. 3.
The East bench is not "terribly underserved
by public transportation". Look at the UTA SL
County Transporation Map - Attached. There
are N-S and E-W bus routes that serve SLC
East bench and are utilized, including 21S.
You can expand bus services on these routes
if needed without interuption and expensive
infrastructure. We already have new and
expanded park and ride lots to extended and
canyon service routes in District 6. 4.You say
the street car is a people mover. But then
you promote redevelopment along the
possible route. Public transporation should
serve population centers not drive
Maryann Martindale
I am unable to attend tonight's meeting but I
wanted to write to you both and add my
agreement with your assessment of a eastbound 2100 south street car route. I live in
the weird little notch at the top of 2100
south (south of Parley's Way, north of I-80)
that is completely unserved by transit of any
kind. Our area is changing, it is no longer just
the stay-at-home moms but now students,
younger people, singles, etc. and we are
without any real option. When I first moved
to the area I looked into taking the bus to
work but because the stops had been
eliminated along Parley's Way Blvd., I would
have had to go west of 2300 East (I believe it
was about halfway between 2300 and 2100
East) to get to a stop, then take three
different bus connections to get to my
destination. I realize not every area is going
to be perfectly served by transit, but I live in
the city, right off a very major road, yet it is
practically impossible for me to use public
transit. Also, the lack of transit in my
neighborhood continues to be a frustration
to my children who attend school in the area
and would like the option of public
transportation. If the new street car were to
eventually come east, possibly as far as 2300
Glenda Cotter
Hi Charlie, Thanks for your regular and
informative visits to the Wasatch Hollow
Community Council meetings. I’m writing
to you, not as a member of the council but
as a resident of the area concerned about
the two routes for the third phase of the
Sugar House streetcar. Although within the
WHCC boundaries, I’m one of the few
residents who live within Jill Love’s Fifth
District boundaries. However, I want to
thank you for supporting the 2100 East route
and encourage you to continue that support.
It’s important for the many reasons
I’ve outlined below. Please let me know
if there’s anything I can do to help.
Thanks and best, Glenda Glenda Cotter
Community resident and treasurer, Wasatch
Hollow Community Council I've been
following the conversation regarding the
alternative routes for the third phase (2C) of
the Sugar House streetcar, with the terminus
being at either 1100 E and 1700 So or 2100
So and 1700 E. I'm writing to strongly
support and respectfully encourage that
latter route, for the following several
reasons: 1. The area on Highland Drive/1100
East from 2100 South to 1700 South is
already a thriving community space for small
Lee Rech
Dear Councilman Luke, As a resident of
Sugarhouse (District 6) for over 18 years, I
am emailing to request that you reject the
Sugarhouse Streetcar / Trax line proposal
that puts it coming up 21st South. I currently
live on 15th East and Hollywood Ave (1965
South) and I can say without a doubt that
developing the Trax line just two blocks from
my front door would not only devalue my
property (which I have spent tens of
thousands of $$ remodeling), which has
already been slammed by the
recession/housing crisis but would also set a
negative precedent of more commercial
development along the 21st South corridor
that is still primarily residential east of 13th
East all the way up to Parley’s Way. I
know that there some urban planners such
as Soren Simonsen that are proponents of
developing the Trax up 21st South. However,
having talked to many in my neighborhood
including some businesses owners, I can tell
you a majority of people that I have spoken
to are not okay with this Trax plan. I hope
you and your City Council colleagues will
consider all of the pros and cons of running a
Trax line up 21st South (including the
Sugarhouse Master Plan) carefully as I
Paul and Fanone Parkinson
Hi Charlie, We had hoped to join the hearing
tonight but will not be able to make it.
Please know that we support the trolley
route on 2100 South and greatly appreciate
you representing this position on the
Council. Please feel free to reach out if there
is anything else we can do to help push this
route along! Best Regards,
Paul Kuiken
Councilman Luke, I appreciate your
informative mailing about the plans for the
Sugarhouse Street Car. Unfortunately I will
be unable to attend the meeting tonight but
wanted to share my input. As you expressed,
the Sugarhouse area is already a very
congested area. Where the street car line is
placed will make a big impact on the
surrounding area. I think it best to have the
track lead up Wilmington Ave and then on to
Sugarhouse Park like you said. It would grant
access to the businesses along the way and
also provide transportation to the park.
There are many community activities that
take place at the park, such as the annual
fireworks celebration for Independence Day.
A trax line leading there would help alleviate
such congested traffic during events such as
these. Having the line go down 1100 E, I
think, is a bad idea. The area still has the
feeling of a quiet neighborhood, which a trax
line would destroy. The road itself is already
a narrow two lane road. If a trax line was put
through there, it would only seem possible if
businesses right along the road were torn
down and the homes front yard would have
to be significantly reduced as well in order to
widen the road for the trax and two lanes of
Danny Clyne
Hi Charlie, As you might guess, my wife and I
most adamantly concur with our long-time
friend Ms. Rech. From the get-go, we've
always understood that any mass transit
going up 21st South to the East, was not to
be part of the Master Plan. We are already
aghast by the amount of development
happening in the central Sugarhouse area. It
is my personal opinion that Soren Simonsen
is single-handedly destroying the area. The
once quaint and walkable Sugarhouse is now
becoming overused and soon will be
overcrowded as well. The Sugarhole fiasco
was certainly foretelling of the pending
doom of the area. It is sad when developers
have more power with their dollars then do
the residents of the city with their tax dollars
and moreover, their voices. We too are
regrettably unable to attend this evening's
meeting. But, for now, I will close by saying
this: Please, discontinue building and stop
the madness. Just please stop it. Your
partner in the war against graffiti, Danny
Kelly White
I attended the Sugarhouse Street Car Council
Meeting last night and first of all let me say
thank you to all of you for your service. As
evidenced by the meeting, this decision is
not going to make everyone happy but your
job is not to make everyone happy but to do
what’s in the best interest of the city and
the citizens of Salt Lake. What I found
disconcerting with the meeting is how the
civil in civil discourse doesn’t really exist
anymore. But I already knew this because
this is what we found out with Yalecrest and
the meeting last night had shades of
Yalecrest all over it. I discovered that many
people were uninformed and uneducated of
the facts regarding streetcars and what a
streetcar actually is and can do for a city. The
tone of the evening seemed to be a selfish
tone of “All About Me―
, again a tone
I’ve heard before. It was the rare person
that actually talked about community and
the greater good of all. People seemed to
turn this into a battle against each other and
against the city with someone certainly on
the losing side. I think streetcars are good
for Salt Lake and that we can all be winners
in this – less air pollution, better air, less
cars on the street and less congestion means
GEne Berrett
I was unable to attend the meeting due to
illness. I am opposed to the street car
anywhere that restricts traffic . Thank you
Monica Mudlow
Because my kids go to school on 23rd East
and I don't want teh extra traffic or the
possibliity of an accident with a child and
this area is residential and this is ridiculous
that someone wants to do something like
this through a residentail area! NO!!!!!
Sharon Hauri
Thank you for your commitment to our
neighborhood. I am commenting on the SH
Streetcar as a resident and participant in
ELPCO, but also have the insight of having
participated in the Alternative Alisgnment
study in my role working on the streetcar for
South Salt Lake. I agree with the proposed
LPA for the reasons outlined in that study.
The city should invest in transit that has the
greatest return - in ridership, reinvestment
and economic activity. The extension north,
which can ultimately connect to other
central city neighborhoods meets these
criteria. The demographics, income, diversity
of housing and jobs density is there and
deserving of a more complete transit
network, and streetcar fits the bill. It is not
however, the only possible option. BRT on
700 East or another transit option on 1100
East may also make sense. It is frustrating
that this debate has been driven by emotion
and not evidence in the past few weeks. I
believe SLC has not fully addressed the range
of considerations that will help clarify the
choice to its residents. We need to have a
better picture of future transportation
options, future development and future
neighborhood master plans for the entire
Camille Alexander
I am for the street car down 1100 S. It will be
a great connection to the Trax on 400 S. It
will provide the Westminster Students with a
great alternative to get around instead of
driving. Therefor reducing our air pollution
that we get in the winter. This will be a
wonderful for my home price. I believe that
having a street will provide my
neighborhood with revitalization and a
wonderful opportunity to get around. I will
definatly be using the street car is put down
1100 South. It was a wonderful idea.
Doug Murray
Please stop the madness. Let's wait to see
how things go with phase 1 of the streetcar
before blindly going into the next phase.
Walkable neighborhoods are great. I love my
neighborhood. But there is a difference
between a neighborhood and an business
district. A few years ago additional
businesses were pushed on our
neighborhood against residents' wishes.
Now there is no street parking for a block
around those businesses because empoyees
are always parked in front of our houses.
The reason there isn't more bus service in
the neighborhood is because ridership was
low. What rosy projections make you think
that people who won't ride a bus will ride
the streetcar? I like the idea of mass transit,
but we don't have the numbers. People
aren't going to walk 5 blocks to ride the
streetcar for 4 blocks
Craig Mecham
It seems to me that strong consideration
should be given to the professional firm of
Fehr and Peers who was employed by the
city to do an indepth study as to what will
best serve Sugar House. They are very
familar with what does work and what does
not work. They have gone to great effort and
expense to provide the City with a feasability
study and made their recommendation
based on the skills and experience doing this
very kind of thing. If we ignore their
recommendation it is a little like going to the
Doctor who tells us we have "high blood
pressure" and perscribes a medication to
solve the problem, however if we don't
follow his recommendation because we
don't like the taste of the pill it could have
fatal consequences. Such could be the case if
we ignore Fehr and Peer's recommendation
Also, it only make sense to provide the
trolley service to where the people live.
Within one block of 21st So and 11th E their
are currently five apartment complexs either
built or being build that average over 150
units a piece. Also the area north of 21st is
primarily residential. According to the report
those who are most likely to ride the trolley
are those who live and shop in Sugar House.
George Sumner
A streetcar route along 2100 South will
create development pressure on Sugarhouse
Park. This will start immediately with
confiscation of park property to create "turnouts" so the streetcar will not have to stop in
traffic lanes. It will continue until this
precious open space is fully developed. At a
time when Utah politicians are willing to
spend $700 million of taxpayer funds to
move the prison in order to make its
property available to developers, I can see
no other possible future for Sugarhouse Park
if the streetcar line is extended along 2100
South.
Jeff Wall
Do not extend the street car down 1100 East
to 1700 South. for the following reasons:
The road is not wide enough and the
proposed route leads to no-where. It should
be sent up 2100 South or 1300 East and
extend to the UNiversity of Utah.
Westminister Students don't commute to
the campus, University of Utah Students do
from across the valley. This proposed route
solves no traffic issues. The neighborhoods
cannot handle any additional short cut traffic
driving at freeway speeds. People can walk
to
2100
we already
do.Jorgensen, I
Dear
Mr.south,
Luke, like
My name
is Doug
Doug Jorgensen
have lived in the neighborhood for 30 years
and am a teacher at Highland High School.
Please put this as another one of your
constituents who is opposed to the
Sugarhouse trolley coming up 2100 South.
For the record I am also against it going
along 1100 East. Though to many it initially
seems like a romantic thought to have a
train going to the east side, I believe that it
will actually have a negative impact on our
neighborhood. Here are my concerns: •
Safety of students walking or biking to
school. There are many Dilworth, Hillside
and Highland students who walk to school. I
am especially concerned about the students
who have to cross 2100 South to get to and
from Dilworth and Hillside. • Safety of
young teenage drivers in a neighborhood
with a train. Teenagers are not likely to take
a train to school. Imagine teenage drivers
driving down 2100 South on the new one
lane each way road. Behind a train? On
garbage day? Please, this idea is not safe for
my students. • Increased traffic on side
streets. So people will avoid 2100 South,
where will they go? They will detour down
the side streets. • Reduced lanes for cars
Sharon Jorgensen
To Whom It May Concern; I have lived east
of 1900 East on about 1900 South for 30
years. I have a husband and have raised four
boys in this neighborhood. We moved here
because it's residential, not commerical or
full of commuter traffic, trains, or buses.
There is no need for more public
transportation east of 1300 East than the
buses we already have, otherwise UTA
would not have decreased the number of
routes in our area. The only east side traffic
problem is Foothill Dr. from I-215 to the
University. Here are my thoughts on why we
should not have the 2100 South
trolley/train: • Safety of students walking
or biking to school. There are many
Dilworth, Hillside and Highland students who
walk to school. We are especially concerned
about the students who have to cross 2100
South to get to and from Dilworth and
Hillside and even Highland. Add a train to
this main school bus route and it would be
even more dangerous. • Safety of young
teenage drivers in a neighborhood with a
train. Teenagers are not likely to get up a
little earlier to walk 3 or 4 blocks to wait and
take a train to school when they could walk
another few blocks for free and be on time.
Cindy Nordstrom
Council Luke and Simonsen, The last thing
our community needs is a “Trolley―
, just
like we didn’t need Walmart on Parsleys
Way. I am not sure if you are listening to
your community or other special interests
groups, but I know you are not listening to
our neighborhood or to me. All you have to
do is spend one morning on 21st East/South
or 23rd east to see that there is enough
traffic to begin with. We certainly don’t
need to have a trax train (disguised as a
“Trolley―
) to contend with. The danger
to our children is beyond describable....what
are you thinking! We do not need this and
do not want it. You are voted in office by
your neighbors and community and are
there to represent our views. Plain and
simple, we do not want this “Trolley―
!
Cindy Nordstrom
Dave Keith Jorgensen
My Name is Dave Jorgensen and I am a
Junior at Highland High School. I have many
concerns about having this proposed cable
car going up 2100 South in Sugarhouse but I
am very aware that you all are very busy
people and do not have the time to read
much so I will try so keep this short. Next
year I am a Student Body Officer for
Highland and my main concern about this
proposal is the effect it will have on the
1,546 students that are currently enrolled at
Highland and the future students of next
year at Highland. Here are my main points
and concerns, please take the time to read
them all. 1. Many students who travel from
all over the city to attend Highland already
have free busing to school, why would they
pay to use trax? I wouldn't wait five to ten
minutes for a train when I could walk and be
on time. 2. There is a number of students
who walk to school every single day. Adding
this rail line in will increase the chances of a
injury to a student and possible even death.
There are more and more stories in the
news about accidents involving Trax Trains
than ever before! I do not want my friends
to get hurt! 3. Finally this is my most
important point, I do not know if you have
Donald Gaillard
Sugar House Trolley?? STOP LOOK AND
LISTEN STOP • STOP wasting money trying
to fix something which is not broken. UTA
already has a bus system that adequately
serves 21st South. Proposing that the data of
ridership continues East beyond 17th East on
21st South is a wild stretch of the
imagination. Seldom, do we who live on 21st
South, observe more than a handful of
riders. Said ridership stops during the
summer and when school is not in session.
There is already a bus #21 that goes to the
University of Utah and it is seldom at
capacity. UTA busses already have it
covered. If you are looking at the GREEN
ENVIRMENTAL ASPECT, there have already
been proposals to retrofit busses with
natural gas and electrical conversions. This
seems much more feasible and economical.
Busses are much more quiet and do not
disrupt the well-established residential
neighborhoods? • STOP promising us one
thing then performing a bait and switch,
saying we will have a quaint little
“trolley―
, and then pushing a retrofitted
Trax train and Trax rails going into
Sugarhouse is quite different than what was
proposed. • Please STOP and inform those
Scott Sorensen
Coucilmen Luke and Simonson As a resident
of Sugar House, I am writing to express my
adamant opposition to an extension of
trax/trolley/streetcar in any way shape or
form up 2100 South It would bring safety
concerns for our children who walk to
school, incredible litigation costs, traffic
diversions into neighborhood streets and a
significant and ongoing tax burden at a time
when SLC seems to be banging the tin cup
for more money for the SLC budget as well in
addition to significant ongoing investments
downtown It is prudent for you to stop and
consider carefully. Put together a master
plan that is fully vetted and do not start
down a path that is not thought out, not
economically viable and one that simply
rewards your financial backers and not your
constituents. Scott Sorensen
Bernice Poelman
Enough!!! Please vote against the street car
line being extended up 21st south!!! 21st
south is difficult as it is with its narrow 4
lanes. There is no need for the line up in this
residential neighborhood. The bus system is
sufficient. The mayor just said that we are at
the end of our "no tax raises" years so taxes
will be going up. Why are we talking about a
needless rail system in light of that message.
Bernice Poelman
Larry Thorpe
Charlie, I have attached a copy of my
previous email for ease of reference: It
appears that I was ill-informed as to who or
whom is wanting to construct the Trolley
line. It is not UTA/TRAX, but rather our own
City Council of Salt Lake City. Apparently
they believe that Salt Lake City is not being
serviced with adequate transit opportunities.
They believe that this lack of service requires
their implementing or construction of Salt
Lake City's own transit system. However, not
having the expertise to operate such a
project/system, the city would contract an
"outside third party", namely UTA, to
operate the system. Ridiculous. If Salt Lake
City wants to make better transit
arrangements for the citizens on the east
bench and they are worried that we are
declining in transportation services on the
east side, why don't they simply make a longterm deal with UTA/TRAX to subsidize
and/or increase the current system and by
charging east side residents a lessor fee for
ridership privileges. They could 1) open
more routes, 2) charge lessor fees and 3) use
the existing UTA/TRAX bus system currently
in place. We don't need more busses and
some trolley cars to encourage ridership, or
Mike De La Mare
To: Trolley people, No one has identified this
as a need. It almost seems like you are trying
to push the idea without ever discussing the
concerns. In both the mailing we received
you did not have concerns addressed in a
meaningful way. It was presented as
“you have options―none of which
stated any kind of impact on surrounding
neighborhoods, it was choose plan A,B or C. I
am fine with the “Trolley―going into
Sugarhouse shopping area as first designed,
that is a commercial shopping area that is a
destination for many. To extend it further
would not be money well spent, it creates
congestion, creates a different atmosphere
of “big city―which none of us want. We
enjoy and appreciate our fairly quiet
neighborhoods where traffic flows are
manageable and bus service is adequate.
• Safety of students walking or biking to
school. There are many Dilworth, Hillside,
Beacon Heights, and Highland students who
walk to school. We are especially concerned
about the students who have to cross 2100
South to get to and from Dilworth and
Hillside. • Safety of young teenage drivers
in a neighborhood with a train. Teenagers
are not likely to take a train to school.
Jill Anderson
Please do everything in your power to keep
the trolley off 2100 South. It is a family
neighborhood (not a business district) with
children crossing it every day and
inexperienced high schoolers driving on it to
get to Highland. There is not point to bring it
east of Sugarhouse, except to disrupt our
neighborhood. More cars will be going on
the side streets to avoid the trolley which
means more danger to our kids. PLEASE stop
the trolley from going east on 2100 South!!
Thanks for your consideration of those who
will be most impacted by this decision! Jill
Anderson
JW Clemens
Councilman Charlie Luke--- It is obvious
Mayor Becker does not live in Sugar House
or frequent the place much. My household
of 7 voting adults say NO to the 11th East
proposal for installing a trolley!
Unfortunately, the Mayor will probably also
propose more biking lanes as well---bad
idea. The street is already well used.
Squeezing more biking lanes in 11th East is a
BAD idea. We see what happened to the
15th East Avenue and the mess that has
occurred. Our family uses15th East on a
regular basis; we note that there aren't very
many biking people using the lanes
throughout the day that have
inconvenienced those who live there and
shop in the area. Keep up the good work.
Amy Rigby
We live on wilmington, and feel that the
street car would divert traffic from 2100
South to Wilmington (the next street south
parallel to 2100 S.) and make that a busier
street and more dangerous to my family
Mike Rice
My wife walks to Sugar House park daily
from our house and if this line is put in she
will have to negotiate it every day.
Walley Jarman
Luke, Wally Jarman, owner of Finn's
Restaurant (1700 South 1100 East) called to
say he fully supports the trolley running
down 1100 East. He believes a majority of
businesses would like to see the trolley run
down for 1100 east (contrary to the
outspoken opposition).
Virginia Hylton
After watching and reading the public
comments and considering the long term
and terminus potential, I am in favor of
extending the streetcar east on 2100 South.
Jamie Searle
we live in a residential area. we do not want
the trolley, the noise, and all the additional
people that would come with the trolley. in
this area i dont see a reason to have the
trolley come up to 23rd east. we have great
bus service and it is pretty peaceful most of
the time. ours is a quiet neighborhood. and
we
would like
it toConcern:
stay thatWe
way.
To Whom
It May
have lived in
Don and Kris Bell
the Foothill/Sugar House area for nearly 35
years. I firmly believe that the Phase Two
route for the transit trolley should follow
2100 South Eastbound to the Highland High
school/Sugar House park area. This would
allow "younger" citizens to become familiar
mass-type transit instead of assuming a car
is always required to get around our city. It
would also allow many citizens, from outside
the boundaries of our city, to access the
trolley from the Light Rail from South and
Southwest areas of the County. The Sugar
House park is well known and many citizens
come from all over to participate at flower
shows, athletic events, walk-a-thons, 5k
races and of course the yearly fireworks in
July. With the completion of the "trail
system" from the Parley's Canyon area,
many hikers and bike riders will use the park.
All of these people will use the trolley if it
ends at the park / Highland High school. All
of the businesses in the 2100 South between
1100 East and 1300 East will benefit from
these riders. Overall, this eastern route is by
far the better choice than the alternate
route which will end at 1700 South and 1100
East. Even the Westminster College students
Mike Glover
Debra Hogan
lives on 1100th east & the street car will add
to the problem of congestion and will not
help it, and he is agains the 1100 east route.
the rail does not need to come past 1300
east.
Peggy Anderson
Pam Peterson
Melissa Weber
Jessica Crouch
Karen Lao
Elisa Evans
Mackenzie Martin
raquel Ramon
Tina Johnson
Lives on 1100 east its 6:30 and cars are
backed up to 2100 south north to the end of
the post office. Please support the citiizens,
go up 2100 east lots less space, or go up
Wilmington.
I own Central Book Exchange and I am
against the 11th East route due to
construction will hurt my business.
against 11th E Streetcar due to the streetcar
forcing traffic onto 9th east and causing
congestion. Also, it will drive residential
traffic to 10th East which would be bad for
the residential area.
against the streetcar on 11th.
in support of the 21st S route to serve Sugar
House Park
Elisa Evans opposed to streetcar on 11th
East because it will impact her ability to shop
at local businesses.
Mackenzie Martin against the 11th East
Streetcar because everyone in the area is
against it.
Raquel Ramon is against the 11th East
Streetcar. Thankful for the public hearing,
and thankful for you taking time to listen to
everyone at the public hearing and everyone
calling you.
Rebecca Seiger
Tina Johnson opposed to streetcar on 11th
Lee Chase is against the streetcar on 11th.
She will tell all the people who live at your
house about your choice in voting for this
streetcar.
Sandy Bonair is opposed to streetcar on 11th
East.
Rebecca Seiger is against the streetcar on
11th because it is the same as a trax train
and will cause problems due to construction
and congestion.
Rulond Aglesian
Rulond Aglesian is against the streetcar on
11th east. Please consider an alternative.
Lee Chase
Sandy Bonair
Brook Elsworth
Mrs. Covey
George Chapman
Gail Murdock
Lori Layton
Mickey
Jim
Mike Glover
Brook Elsworth is against the streetcar on
11th. It will crush the small feel of the Sugar
House area.
Mrs. Covey is very, very against the 11th
East Streetcar due to it causing congestion.
She feels busses would be better. These
expensive things are not the best solution.
George Chapman is against the 11th east
Streetcar due to it causing increased
congestion.
Gail Murdock expressing her opposition to
the streetcar on 11th.
Lori Layton, of Boxing is for Girls. She wants
you to vote against the street car on 11th.
She said she is opposed to the streetcar on
11th. Expect a lot of these today. The boxing
is for girls group has your picture and
number on a poster that is encouraging
people to call you with their opposition to
the streetcar.
He wants to let you know he is opposed to
the streetcar on 11th. He also tried to make
a clever reference to the movie "A Streetcar
Named Desire," but he stuttered during it
and it lost its effect.
Mike Glover lives on 1100 East. He said there
is a congestion problem on 1100 East and he
doesn’t believe the trolley will alleviate
the problem. He thinks it will only make it
worse.
Melanie Hawks
Dan Kaelberer
Bruce Jensen
I am writing to voice my opposition for the
proposed 11th East streetcar extension. This
route makes no sense to me; I understand
the idea of 17th South/Westminster as a
sort of "anchor" destination, but there are
already plenty of non-car transportation
options for that stretch of road--the 213 bus,
bike lanes, and sidewalks, for instance. It is
only about a 10 minute walk from 21st South
to 17th East; it's probably faster to walk than
to wait for the next streetcar! That stretch of
road is already narrow and congested and
the streetcar will not change that; people
who will use the streetcar are not the
residents who need to drive through that
area to get from A to B, or shoppers who are
driving from central city to reach the Barnes
& Noble, Petco, etc. I can't imagine how a
streetcar on 11th would reduce car traffic in
any way. The construction of the line will
seriously harm the small, local businesses
north of 21st South and create major traffic
flow problems, forcing drivers to try to wend
their way around on the quiet residential
streets between 11th & 13th/11th & 9th. I
think residents, small business owners, and
anyone who relies on 11th East as a route
through Sugarhouse will suffer if this
I grew up in the area and my parents still live
there. The neighborhood has a special charm
that would be disrupted with rail systems
and extra traffic. Let's try to preserve and
protect the neighborhoods in this area.
Ron Pynes stated it well is his comment. The
congestion the line would create is a huge
negative
Carol A Tripp
Supports the 2100 South streetcar
alignment. It is just as close to Westminster
as the 1100 East alignment. There is no mass
transit in the Highland Park area -one bus
runs along 1700 East every two hours. The
2100 South alignment would be beneficial to
Highland High students and businesses.
Please vote for the 2100 South option.
Carol A. Tripp
Supports the 2100 South streetcar
alignment. It is just as close to Westminster
as the 1100 East alignment. There is no mass
transit in the Highland Park area -one bus
runs along 1700 East every two hours. The
2100 South alignment would be beneficial to
Highland High students and businesses.
Please vote for the 2100 South option.
Marsha Gilford
Dear Council Member Lamalfa, Smith’s
owns and operates a very popular
convenience store with fuel at 1974 South
1100 East. Because of this C store, we
oppose the trolley line being diverted up
1100 East for the following reasons: •
Customers frequently turn left as they go
Northbound on 100 East to t urn into our
location. To limit their access would impede
traffic and create only one access point from
the residential street that is north of our lot.
• Our fuel deliveries are made by large
tanker trucks that require easy and wide
access in and out of the 1100 East. If that is
prohibited, we would not be able to fill our
underground tanks. Any transportation
modifications possible would be forced to
come in from 900 East or 2100 South and
weave through residential areas to gain
access to the C store. We understand this is
a decision requiring consideration of many
viewpoints. But having a trolley line impede
access to our store and fuel station would be
a very serious issue for us at Smith’s.
Please support the option to run the trolley
along another route. Marsha Gilford Vice
Preisdent Public Affairs Smith's Food & Drug
Stores 1550 S Redwood Rd SLC, Utah 84104
Scott Mayeda
Mr. LaMalfa, My family lives on 2200 East
just south of 2100 south. We have two
young children that attend Dilworth
Elementary (just north of 2100 South) and
cross 2100 South every school day. I’m
very concerned about their safety if the
streetcar is routed up 2100 South. I
understand and agree with the need for
public transportation. However, I do not see
the benefits of a small streetcar that seems
to have no master plan and no major
destination point. TRAX has turned out to be
a great success. It seems to me that its
success stems from getting people out of
their cars and into public transportation to
travel to major destinations such as the
airport, downtown Salt Lake, and the
University of Utah. I don’t see any major
destination point with the streetcar (other
than possibly Westminster College). With all
due respect to Sugarhouse Park, Walmart, or
Foothill Village, I just don’t see those as
major destinations for the streetcar that
would ultimately produce the benefits that
public transportation can and should
provide. For my family, the safety risks of
the streetcar travelling up 2100 South where
hundreds of children cross to go to both
Robert Argenbright
I support the alternative favored by the
mayor and the study--up 1100 E.
Westminster will be a significant trip
generator. In the future, the line can serve
9th & 9th and continue on to the U. The U.
and Sugar House have very strong
connections, thanks to all the prof's and
students who live in S.H. Much the same can
be said for the U. and 9th and 9th. It's
important to build the line where it will be
used. I disagree with Charlie Luke--Sugar
House Park is unlikely to be a significant trip
generator, because people want to bring
dogs, sleds, picnic stuff, etc. From there it's a
long way to 21/21, which seems a strongly
car-oriented area, much less likely to use the
street car than Sugar House, the
Westminster area, or 9th/9th--not to
mention the U. The small-business owners
along 11th are afraid of disruption and that's
understandable. But the disruption will be
temporary and for the sake of the city as a
whole.
Suzanne Middleton
I think that the streetcar should go up to
Sugar House Park and then north on 1300 E.
The road is wider and I feel that it would
provide an opportunity for people who
frequent the park and still be able to provide
access to Westminster.
Mark Morris
My name is Mark Morris, and I have lived in
District 7 for over 26 years. This is my second
comment to you on this issue, but in the few
days since I sent to you my hurriedly
assembled thoughts on the prospect of
street cars going north or east from the
Sugarhouse terminus, and after attending
the Sugarhouse Community Council meeting
last night where the ratio of people weighing
in on expanding street cars appeared to be
10-1 against, I have these additional
thoughts: • NEED – First, has anyone
explained what the rush is? 1100 East and
2100 South aren’t going anywhere.
I’m not aware of any large influxes of
people or high-density housing going into
the area. Putting in rail will be no harder
later than it is now. Are we trying to grab
money because it may not be available
later? Does the prospect of federal funding
expire? Is that what’s driving the rush?
Are we that desperate to grab some free
money that we’ll do so recklessly? Some
say we need this, because the “City―is
growing and our neighborhoods are only
going to get more dense, by going up. I
imagine there are areas of the City where
that may be true, but I can’t imagine it
Zack Phifer
I support putting a street car on 1100 East.
I've heard the arguments against it and they
really don't make sense to me.
Shelly Gardner
Andrew Theurer
I'm concerned about safety on 2100 s. Its
already congested and narrowing the street
might add to this. Also the children in my
neighborhood have to cross 2100 to attend
elementary and middle school. The train
could make this more dangerous. I would
like to see how this would be implemented.
If it would loop into the university? What
would've true benefits be?
If mass transit expansion is really necessary,
buses are a less costly and more flexible
alternative.
Becky Smith
I have lived in this area for almost 50 years.
Our children have attended neighorhood
schools and I still visit the area often. A
street car rail line is not conducive to a
neighborhood such as this. Safety would be a
huge issue with all the foot traffic. Traffic
flow would be disrupted. There is not
sufficient space without eliminating existing
structures. It just doesn't make sense, and
no one is giving a reasonable argument for it
or backing it up with any numbers or definite
plans.
Apparently there was a small protest on
Gary Blake and Karen WInslow-Blake
1100 East yesterday against a possible
streetcar extension along that street. We're
concerned that this protest might give the
impression that most residents of the area
are against such an alignment. In fact, we
believe the opposite is true. We own a home
near the proposed 1100 East line, and we
endorse the 1100 East alignment. In fact,
every neighbor we've talked to would like to
see the line come north to 1700 South. We
can see benefits to the other two options,
but we strongly believe the 1100 East option-running north to 1700 South--would be by
far the best choice. 1100 East is looking tired
along that stretch, and the streetcar would
definitely help in that respect. More
importantly, it would attract ridership from
Westminster College. Anything that would
alleviate traffic and parking problems around
the college would be wonderful, and the
other two options just can't offer that kind
of benefit. It's also nice to think that this
would bring a streetcar within two blocks of
the original end-of-line in the Perkins
Addition. This was the first "streetcar
suburb" in the city, and one of the first in the
country. As I understand it, the line ended at
Joan Ishimatsu
I'd like to give my two cents on the 1100 E
streetcar. I live down there and I don't think
it's a good idea. I rahter see it if they can talk
UTA in making a loop with a bus, go over to
Mclleland street and then pick up the
students to go on 1100 E. There is no room
over
Dear here.
Councilperson Love, I write to voice
Mark and Ashely Kittrell
mine, and my wife's, support for the Sugar
House Streetcar line to run along 1100 East.
We both reside in your district. We believe
this to be the best route for the Sugar House
neighborhood and economic development.
Studies show that the greatest ridership will
occur along that proposed route. With
increased ridership, you will see increased
dollars to be spent on local businesses.
Furthermore, this represents a wonderful
way to connect to vital neighborhoods in the
city -- the 9th & 9th area with the Sugar
House area. The 2100 South option concerns
me because it would run along the Sugar
House Park's northern edge. Streetcars are
implemented as a means for economic
development. If the route ran along that
edge of the Park, I fear you would see
economic development pressure for the
crown jewel of our local park system.
Coincidentally, I serve on the Sugar House
Park Authority, and we are concerned about
that development as well. The Authority, in a
written letter to Mayor Becker, expressed
that it does not prefer the 2100 South route.
I even think a 2100 South route would
impede traffic flow on a major artery
Jesse Knight
Hi Jill, You know me from my membership
on the ELPCO community council. Our
council has not yet arrived at a consensus
opinion on the streetcar, but I have,
personally. I think eleventh east makes sense
and that’s where the streetcar should go.
East Benchers have enough amenities, and
the Westminster, U of U neighborhoods
would use the streetcar option more, I
believe. Plus, it’s funkiness matches the
tone and timbre of the Sugarhouse 11th east
neighborhood ambience. I don’t think
the protesters are aware of how beneficial
the streetcar would be for their
neighborhoods. Ed Butterfield needs to get
out there more and do some more
“convincin.―Better yet, Mayor Becker
himself could persuade this vocal minority of
benefits of a streetcar in the neighborhood.
Meanwhile, for what it’s worth, add my
voice to those who favor the 11th east
option. Thank you for all you do for we SLC
citizens, I am proud to live in the best City in
Utah.
I don't want my kids to cross the tracks on
their way to elementary school. To
Dangerous!
Because it will be going right past my house
and people in my ward are going to have to
lose some of their property.
Jans B. Wager
No on 11th East Streetcar in Sugarhouse.
Ellen Parish
Michael Hansen
East Central Community Coucnil
Jans Wager
Amber Mettler
Dear Mayor, Jill, Luke, all other members of
the City Council, Robin, and staff; After the
City Council public hearing on April 23, 2013,
we took an additional poll of the ECC
members who are enrolled as part of our
electronic Google system. Our current
enrollment is 2117. The outcome was 618
responded and 608 sustained the previous
ECC position or 1100 East from 2100 South
to 900 South, west on 900 South to 900 East,
north on 900 East to the 400 Trax station.
Dissenting comments were the following: Of
the 618, 10 were in favor of east on 2100
South Additional comments or questions
were: 1. Why don’t we just leave the 209
bus on 900 East. It works well. 2. Consider a
new route, west on 2100 South and make a
Sugar House loop 3. Concern for the welfare
of the small businesses located on 1100 East
4. Concern about rezoning on 1100 East 5.
Concern about crime that transit brings In
behalf of the Executive Board and General
Membership Esther Hunter & Gary Felt
Chairs East Central Community Council
I am a resident of Sugarhouse. I live just off
off 11th East on Sherman Avenue. I oppose
the streetcar on what is currently a lovely,
quiet street with many thriving small
businesses. I think the business, the
neighborhood, and the property values
would suffer with the streetcar.
I just wanted to write briefly to express my
strong support for the 1100 E streetcar
route.
All, I am writing to strongly recommend a
"no" vote on the current proposal to extend
the Sugarhouse streetcar north on 1100 E.
I'm in agreement with many others who feel
that such a plan is very ill-advised due to
increased congestion and the overwhelming
opposition by those most affected including
businesses and residents close to the street.
I attended early meetings on the Sugarhouse
plan, and any mention of extending the
route north or otherwise was presented in
terms of the distant future. As such, I was
very troubled that it appears a decision has
already been made. I was also very
unimpressed by the logic that was presented
in favor of the 1100 E. plan (more potential
for ridership...compared to what, economic
development for whom at the expense of
the residents?). In this situation, no action
would be much better than the wrong
action. Please listen to the voice of the
people on this one. Sunk costs associated
with a feasibility study should not be a driver
in any such decision.
Sugar House Streetcar proposal
Where would you like the Sugar House Streetcar to take you?
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Sugar House Streetcar proposal
Where would you like the Sugar House Streetcar to take you?
Introduction
Where would you like to see the Sugar House Streetcar go?
It’s almost time to decide the route the Sugar House Streetcar will take and the Salt Lake City Council
wants to know where you think it should go.
There’s already a streetcar line under construction that will connect South Salt Lake and Sugar
House, but the project ends at McClelland Street near Fairmont Park. The question is where the line
should extend from there.
After completing an extensive study and talking with residents and business owners who live in the
Sugar House area, Mayor Becker’s Administration has proposed a possible route.
The recommendation is that the line extend east from the current tracks to Highland Drive, then north
to the Sugar House Monument at 2100 South Street. Tracks would then be built north along 1100
East Street to 1700 South Street. But the study includes other options, including building a streetcar
line east on 2100 South to 1700 East Street near Highland High School.
Keep in mind that there’s the potential for the City to change zoning regulations to allow for larger
residential and commercial buildings along the streets if the line runs either north along 1100 East
Street or east along 2100 South.
Whichever way it goes, the line will become part of a streetcar network linking the entire city to
neighborhoods and the regional light-rail system.
So where do you think it should? And what do you think about the potential for larger residential and
commercial buildings in certain areas? The City County wants to hear from you.
Click here to read the Mayor’s report, including the Mayor’s recommendation and alternatives
http://www.slccouncil.com/agendas/2013Agendas/Mar19/031913A4.pdf
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Sugar House Streetcar proposal
Where would you like the Sugar House Streetcar to take you?
As of May 6, 2013, 11:41 AM, this forum had:
Attendees:
888
Participants:
178
Hours of Public Comment: 8.9
178 participants posted comments
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Sugar House Streetcar proposal
Where would you like the Sugar House Streetcar to take you?
Name not shown in District 5
May 6, 2013, 11:12 AM
Please do not put the street car on 1100 E. It is crowded enough as it is! I feel it would be much more
useful if it were be extended to Sugar House park.
Ricklen Nobis in District 3
May 6, 2013, 10:23 AM
"We’re put in a tough position," said Council Chairman Kyle LaMalfa, "because we all believe those
impacted by the decision have a right to contribute in a meaningful way." -SL Trib, 5/6/13
Let's hope that the members of the Salt Lake City Council remain aware of their mandate as
Councilman LaMalfa does. And let's hope he and other Council Members respond appropriately to
the uproar over the proposed 11th East streetcar line.
Sometimes I think Council Person Remington-Love is a bit over-arrogant and out of touch with the
majority of her constituents. I wish I lived in the district she represents. I'd actively campaign with my
neighbors to unseat her in the next elections.
Thank you-- Rick Nobis
Name not shown in District 6
May 6, 2013, 8:39 AM
Provo is getting Google Fiber. Sugarhouse is getting ... a trolley? Trolleys are cute and there is a
place for cute in our future. But cute shouldn't cause us to increase taxes. A trolley that only extends
from the TRAX line to sugarhouse is not a "transportation alternative". Extending the trolley line to
1700 South on 1100 East will primarily only benefit Westminster College. A trolley built on 1100 East,
a narrow road, will be slow create dangerous traffic conditions and obstruct motor vehicle and bike
traffic. If Westminster College wants a trolley extension to their campus, let Westminster College pay
for it and then put it on 1200 East or 1250 East where it will be out of the way of through traffic and
people patronizing 1100 East businesses.
Also, I think I have read that the trolley has already cost $35 million. UTA bus Route 209 already
provides service every 15 or 20 minutes on 1100 East and costs the taxpayers nothing. Are we
paying a truckload of additional money in taxes to move backward (in a cute way) or forward? Maybe
we have already bought enough "cute" and should end the trolley at downtown sugarhouse?
Moving the trolley East seems like a much better option if we must spend money and build it
somewhere. I'm not crazy about any of the 2100 South road surface being lost to the trolley, but if the
trolley could go through the Northern edge of Sugarhouse park perhaps not much would have to be
sacrificed in terms of giving up existing roadway.
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Sugar House Streetcar proposal
Where would you like the Sugar House Streetcar to take you?
I grew up in San Francisco in a house adjacent to the "N Judah" Streetcar line, so I have had quite a
bit of exposure to and experience with streetcars. They were ugly, noisy, and attracted a
disproportionate amount of crime to the streets which flanked them.
I moved to Salt Lake to get away from the urban environment and from the clatter and visual pollution
of the streetcars.
I, like most of my neighbors and the residents I have talked to, do not want Sugarhouse (nor Salt Lake
in general for that matter) turned into an ultra-urban area, nor we do not want a streetcar to run
through our residential neighborhoods. Salt Lake City is not Portland or San Francisco, nor do we
want it to be.
I think the Sugarhouse Streetcar is a horribly bad idea because there is really no logical, practical
destination, and I fear it would end up becoming the "Streetcar To Nowhere".
If the grant money absolutely must be spent, why not build a line people would actually USE--perhaps down to St Mark's hospital, or to Fashion Place Shopping center. The way it is planned now,
who would ride it?
Please do not foist a white elephant project such as the Sugarhouse Streetcar on citizens who do not
want it, will not ride it, but will ultimately end up making the sacrifices for it and paying for it both
financially, when lack of ridership makes it unable to sustain itself. and in aggravation.
Sincerely,
Lisa G. Eisenberg
Downington Avenue
Salt Lake City
Vicki Rathunde in District 7
May 5, 2013, 6:56 PM
My home of 21 years is on the corner of 1100 E and Garfield Avenue. Imagine the emotional impact
when I opened one of your studies and saw a BIG BLACK CIRCLE on my front lawn. A proposed
stop on my front yard could mean that 120 students (60 seated and another 60 standing) could be
getting off of the streetcar while another 120 could be waiting to get on. Imagine 120 students and
faculty members as they march up Garfield Avenue, through a residential neighborhood. They would
have to cross a very dangerous blind curve without a crosswalk (i.e., 1200 E. and Garfield). Is the city
going to keep my corner clean and safe? Is the city going to guarantee my children and my
grandchildren that the value of our investment will not drop considerably? Is the city going to
guarantee that if an emergency vehicle, be it an ambulance or fire truck, needed to come to my
house, that it would not be delayed by even one second? Is the city going to reimburse my family the
$1800 that we paid because the city deemed that our sidewalks needed to be re-done.
You have chosen to pretend that 1100 East is made up of a bunch of businesses who will be grateful
for your insight. This is my HOME. I do not want to look out of my 90 year old leaded glass front door
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and see a nightmare. You are directly impacting my life and my future.
Barry Makarewicz in District 6
May 5, 2013, 5:42 PM
I am writing to voice my opposition for extending the Sugarhouse Streetcar line beyond McClelland
Street. I believe both the 1100 E and 2100 S proposals are unnecessary, ill conceived boondoggles.
Why is any extension necessary? Just because "federal grant money" might pay for some of it does
not make it a good idea. The present termination point at McClelland and Sugarmont puts riders right
in the heart of Sugarhouse and just a few blocks walk to shopping, the Park, Post Office, liquor store,
movie theaters and resturants. Do we need to provide motorized transportation right to the entrance
of ever building in the area? Can people not walk a few block any more?
Keep in mind that extention of the streetcar will require the relocation and rebuilding of a fire station
and the certain major disruption of traffic in an already congested area for many months. There is
also an undeniable danger to bicyclists from riding alongside the tracks.
More is not always better. These proposals have not been thoroughly vetted and debated. I do not
believe the Mayor and members of the Council have the best interests of Sugarhouse in mind with
these proposed streetcar extentions. Just because you can does not mean you should.
Sincerely,
Barry Makarewicz
Name not shown in District 6
May 5, 2013, 10:54 AM
My wife and I are long-term residents of District 6 and are strongly opposed to the 2100 South
Streetcar extension. Not only will it increase our property taxes, it will devalue our and the rest of the
homes throughout the areas bordering this route. This idiotic idea appears to be the brainchild of the
quixotic District 7 representative Soren Simonsen, and, who we now find is his willing sidekick, our
own District 6 representative for whom we had such high hopes, now shattered, Charlie Luke. We
have no desire for further business/commercial development along that path, nor do we support the
wild idea that a 2100 South streetcar will assist a now failing 2100/2100 neighborhood business
area--it is overkill to suggest it, and disruptive to what is now a beautiful residential area
complimented by a wonderful high school--Highland and park--Sugar House, and dotted with 'small
business areas,' that serve local residents. Those small businesses should look for more creative and
less disruptive measures to improve their business and attract more customers from the surrounding
area--not bring in customers from other areas via a streetcar. Lastly, we do not want to see the
congestion that a 2100 South streetcar will cause to the already congested 2100 South 1300 East
intersection. Moreover, we support the viewpoints of fellow contributors who have seen streetcars fail
in other areas, and thus we would like to prevent that here. We support the initial streetcar path from
South Salt Lake to Sugar House and the development that is anticipated, but beyond that, more study
is needed. We are more inclined to support the 1100 East extension, since, if the goal is to make
Sugar House more walkable, with fewer vehicles, it is a more reasonable route. Although businesses
along 1100 East will be temporarily inconvenienced, a streetcar will ultimately allow easy on and off
access for riders who want to shop along there as well as Westminster students who are commuting
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from other areas. However, we concur with another contributor, that the streetcars should not be
TRAX vehicles, but 'trolley cars' with a 'retro' look that will help to attract more riders and keep TRAX
and the streetcar separate in the minds of potential users, many of whom remain confused with all of
the ‘fast moving’ information and equally speedy decision-making processes.
Bindy Crafts in District 5
May 5, 2013, 10:02 AM
I am shocked and amazed that the community around the proposed 1100 east extension would be
opposed to any kind of mass transit expansion. This is exactly the type of progressive urban planning
the Sugarhouse area is suppose to be about. The fact that businesses in the area are so short
sighted and don't see the long view of the community beyond their own short term bottom line is
grossly negligent. This transit would only bring more business to their doors, and without all the
congestion of cars and parking problems. If the people of Sugarhouse don't support this, your only
handing over more money and future business investment to the 21st south corridor. It could cause
people to bypass the downtown Sugarhouse area in favor of businesses, shops, and eateries that the
line will service elsewhere. People who complain this is somehow only going to service Westminster
students, don't apparently know what they come with....money! Money to spend on eating food,
drinking coffee and beer, and time to kill shopping in stores. Westminster students, like a lot of the
Sugarhouse population, are young and with money to spend. The 1100 east route makes sense, for
the future of Sugarhouse and for the business community.
Cynthia Phillips in District 6
May 5, 2013, 7:48 AM
I was shocked when I learned the plan was to extend north along 1100 E. Westminster will already
have access to the line without extending in that direction, and 1100 E is walkable now without a
streetcar.
The streetcar should extend east along 2100 S in the direction is is already going. This would provide
access to Sugarhouse park and Highland High School, with the possibility to extend access to the
Foothill area, which is all cars right now. The East bench needs public transportation to the
Sugarhouse area and from there to the downtown. Aline on 2100 E could even open up access to
Park City at some point, which is sorely needed, particularly for the people who work there.
Name not shown in District 6
May 4, 2013, 10:35 PM
Please do not extend the street car past the current plans. You are bringing non residents into my
neighborhood. I have young children and I do not want to worry about letting my children play in our
yard because someone caught trax and than the street car and is walking through my neighborhood
and sees my children or myself. Neither of the streets can handle the lines and will only increase
traffic on the other streets which are already over crowded. While there may be benefits to the street
car there is no added benefit to extending it past its current location. Please remember these are our
homes and our families that you are interfering with, not businesses. Any student can easily walk the
few blocks to Westminster and be fine. Please don't ruin our neighborhood and our Sugarhouse.
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Dear Council Members,
I am a resident of Sugarhouse in the 21st and 21st area. I will also have 2 children attending
Highland High next year, and one other child who will attend Highland in 2019. For these reasons, I
have sincere interest in the proposed street car route.
I strongly oppose the 1100 E Northbound route for two reasons: It seems to be in the interest of only
a private college (Westminster) and therefore a conflict for tax-payers; and secondly, there is
absolutely no need or reason for the streetcar to travel this direction. The car would not even get
Westminster students closer than it would if it stopped on 13th and 21st anyway, and the businesses
on 21st need the services.
I would love to see the streetcar service Sugar House Park some day, as well as Highland High and
possibly Parley's way. The citizens living Eastward of the proposed streetcar are in serious need of
transportation Westward to the the park and businesses such as The Commons, Shopko, the
Cinemark dollar theatres, etc. Buses have proven to be tricky for people who work at the restaurants
in Sugarhouse, as most of the buses quit running by 10 pm, if not 8 pm. When my son worked at
Costa Vida (1050 E 2100 S), taking a bus was not an option b/c he generally finished closing around
10:15 pm. Actually, I don't even know how employees working in the area, who don't have cars, even
get to and from work!
That's my bit. Please bring the streetcar Eastward!
Very Truly Yours,
Karen Bridge
Name not shown in District 7
May 3, 2013, 3:03 PM
I am opposed to the 1100 E. street car alignment. There is already too much congestion and when
Sugar Crossing comes on line it is only going to be worse than it already is. I also don't know if there
is enough demand for the street car if it goes east up 2100 S. to Sugarhouse Park and beyond.
I agree with those that are asking the City Council to take a step back. Develop a real master plan,
wait and see what happens when Sugar Crossing comes on line (I believe there should have been a
traffic master plan done for this before they agreed to move forward with the project) and whether
traffic is even worse, what the parking situation is, etc. Moving forward hastily to apply for grant
funding is not a good idea. There will be other funding opportunities later.
What about using trolley buses? I used to work for a resort town in Colorado and we were looking at
using these to achieve a similar purpose. No disrubtion of businesses to lay tracks, still quaint, still
functional and much smaller than current UTA buses.
Name not shown outside Salt Lake City
May 3, 2013, 1:49 PM
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I work at a local business on 1100 e. and I am excited about the streetcar! I think it's a no-brainer.
1100e is a great choice for it to connect to the first phase. Some like this area the way it is, however
growth of our city is inevatable and so is the need to keep our air clean.
Lee Rech in District 6
May 3, 2013, 11:59 AM
I would prefer the Sugar House Street car not go up 1100 East or 2100 South - both areas are
already densely populated with residential neighborhoods and small businesses that would likely not
make it if streetcar construction were undertaken.
2100 South runs along side a large city park and by several public schools, creating a dangerous
scenario that has not been adequately studied to date. Moreover, it was communicated to residents at
the SHCC on April 30 that 2100 is a major thoroughfare for Salt Lake City Fire - another negative in
regards to running the streetcar up 2100 South.
Lastly, it was communicated to SHCC meeting attendees on April 30 that a property value study in
conjunction with the streetcar has not been commissioned. For some of these reasons and many
more, I respectfully ask that the SL City Council not vote on a specific route next week but rather look
at other options and carefully study them before any Phase II route decision are confirmed regardless
of impending Federal grant implications.
Michael Cohn in District 5
May 3, 2013, 9:37 AM
I write as a private citizen and these views are my own. I am now and have been actively involved in
community affairs, and I am currently the co-chair of East Liberty Park Community Organization
(ELPCO). The ELPCO neighborhood is directly adjacent to the "end of the line" if the Streetcar is
extended north on 1100 East, and any extension of the 1100 East alignment would almost certainly
continue north on 1100 East on its way to somehow, someway, connect to the University Trax line.
First, a defense of the public process. There have been outraged citizens galore who claim to have
not been part of nor notified of the LONG and open process that has brought us to this juncture. The
ongoing availability of workshops, discussions, planning and community input were all pretty much
well attended. This means that people were somehow getting the message about these meetings,
and I urge everyone to at least find the lists you need to be on to be notified about meetings, etc., so
you can be there when the ideas are being formulated. Get involved with your community council.
Our own community council has devoted three separate meetings to this topic, one extremely well
attended one is available from Channel 17. You can also watch that meeting from the following links:
Windows:
mms://slcstream.slcgov.com/Videos/CCM_2013_0328_SSC.wmv
iPod:
http://slcpodcast.slcgov.com/Videos/CCM_2013_0328_SSC.mov
Next, a word about speculation. Much of what we lack in America in order to discuss and resolve
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issues is an agreement on facts. If we all understand what the facts are, we can form the basis for
compromise and understanding. Fact creation has become a bloodsport in the United States, and the
Streetcar issue is turning into bloodsport in Salt Lake City. From the postings on this site, it is clear
that many people do not understand the basic facts. I respect totally your right to be for or against
any ordinance or idea, but if you have learned your "facts" from people who have an agenda of their
own, you may not know the whole story. I urge all sides to find out what the facts are for yourself.
I also urge readers to look at the big picture. Transit, which includes roadways, is functionally
connecting areas together. Many cities have road networks that circle their cities in ever larger
concentric circles. Mass transit works in a similar fashion. If we are to build a successful mass transit
system in Salt Lake City, taking into account where people work, shop and entertain themselves
within the City, we must ultimately connect the dots to make it possible to move around WITHIN the
City WITHOUT A CAR. That is our goal in order to help make survival here tolerable, considering the
air quality (or lack thereof) problems we endure.
The 1100 East alignment would begin that "connecting the dots" process. The research, which I have
been privileged to see, bears out that ridership, commercial and neighborhood development, and
reduced usage of automobiles is best served by the 1100 East alignment. The density of population,
the desire of the businesses along that corridor is in place, the potential for many fewer car trips exists
along this alignment. There will be disruption during construction (there are always disruptions), and
real care in design and zoning must be taken to preserve the character of these valuable
neighborhoods. Residents will want to be near access to this transit as an alternative to car travel
and property values will increase, just as in other similar neighborhoods in Seattle and Portland.
Once extended, the "streetcar to nowhere" will be one of the highest ridership lines in Salt Lake City.
We are choosing an alignment, ANY alignment, without a master transit plan. As citizens we are
entitled to such a document, and I urge its immediate development. We are choosing now, so we can
have the plans in place, because money is going to be breaking loose from all governments as we
finally work our way out of the long lasting financial mess we have experienced for the past few years.
This is not to say that a street car extending east of 21st South is a bad idea; quite the opposite, it is
the southeastern link between the two concentric mass transit circles around Salt Lake City, between
Foothill and Sugarhouse. We need a plan for the Foothill corridor, we need to look carefully at
developing and serving 21st South and 21st East (and east), we need to work with UTA to make the
connecting bus service a source of satisfaction, not frustration.
I believe all of this mass transit development to be far sighted on the part of the Administration, who
are charged with planning, step by step, for the inevitable increase in population over the next thirty
years.
I urge City Council to adopt the 1100 East alignment as the logical next step.
Vallee Stetner in District 7
May 2, 2013, 3:38 PM
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I oppose both proposals to put a street car on 2100 S or 1100 E. For what purpose is a street car
added to 1100E?? The answer given is for the students of Westminster. This is a ridiculous waste of
tax payer money to save college students a four block walk. The proposal by Soren Simonsen to run
the street car up 2100 S is further folly with the sole purpose of financing the project through
increased property taxes specifically for those homeowners located in the route area. There will be
NO federal funding for this project. The cost of the project lays solely on the shoulders of the property
owners of Sugar House. The revenue from increased taxes provides for Simonson to finance his
dream as the residents of Sugar House pay higher taxes all the while losing values on their homes.
We have a mass transit system in place in Sugar House. It is called our bus system and it runs far
below capacity daily.
Honesty in advertising - In the marketing of the Phase 2 Proposals:
All studies used COMMERCIAL property as examples. These streets are RESIDENTIAL. This is a
major difference. The Master Plan did not show any of the Trax Phase 1 plan until 2011. The Master
Plan does not show the Sugar House trolley/streetcar. These properties were purchased and cared
for by Sugar House residents with a Master Plan in place. Simonsen's proposal to diminish our
property values and increase our property taxes has been marketed on misguided information.
Please, see the Sugar House Street Car website for the marketing of the proposal shstreetcar.com.
See the artist renderings of lushly landscaped parkways with walking paths and benches. This is not
the plan. This is the marketing illustration when in fact the plan is to put two grooves (proven by a
Portland study to have caused accidents with 69% of cyclists that have ridden on them) and overhead
cable lines. There is NO plan for improvement of any kind. No burying of cables or utilities, no
additional concrete, no landscaping. At least one, perhaps two of the four lanes on 2100 S or 1100 E
would be grooved and overhead cables added, blocking traffic and limiting right hand turns. This will
slow traffic as the street cars are by definition and designed very slow moving making many stops.
They are said to be on a 15 minute schedule. The Phase 1 plan was a $50,000,000 project for 11
blocks. The cost of Phase 2 has not been announced in their marketing materials but it will be paid
for by the property owners of Sugar House, ENTIRELY. The length of the street car is said to be no
more than two parking spaces long but look at actual street cars including their own renderings and
you can see they are much longer than two cars long and they come with accordion centers to add
additional length. The marketing states they will not reduce property values...no one believes that
correct?? I can demonstrate over and over again how adding a train or trolley, leaving every 15
minutes, can destroy home values. At least Trax has been confined thus far to existing railroad tracks.
The Phase 2 proposal was said have had over 200 people participate in public open houses. I don't
know if this is true but I nor my neighbors were provided information about these public open houses.
Simonson stated he had a mailing yet I never received it nor did my neighbors. Why weren't the
residents who LIVE along these residential streets included in this study? "In a recent Dan Jones
survey, over 2/3 of Salt Lake City respondents strongly favored a streetcar network for Salt Lake City."
Why wouldn't SLC respondents include residents in the affected area especially since the Sugar
House residents are to finance the project?? The survey has since been found to be incomplete.
This statement should not be in the marketing information.
The Phase 2 studies were based on street car/trolley in Seattle (South Lake Union Trolley and the
Capitol Hill Trolley) and the downtown Portland trolley system. Again, all are run in COMMERCIAL
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areas. The Seattle trolleys have been dismal failures with outrage from the public. They are slow,
outrageously expensive ($134mil), inconvenient and therefore under-utilized with thousands of public
comments in reference to "waste of money, rolling roadblocks, $50K per rider on construction costs,
tortoise and the hare, appropriate for 1912 not 2012, impassable, a waste of tax money. The
Portland trolley has made legal right hand turns nearly impossible in the downtown area...ask any
Portland local. See for yourself and Google public comments on these trolley projects.
Trolleys are the new "it" project enticing developers. They are not supported by residents. Sugar
House residents walk. We enjoy our area. The charm of Sugar House needs to be preserved not
destroyed. Adding trolley street cars will slow traffic, destroy the esthetics of the neighborhoods,
create safety issues for pedestrians of all generations and cost the residents dearly.
Vallee Stetner
Resident of Sugar House
Name not shown in District 6
May 2, 2013, 3:34 PM
I like the idea of the street car going up 21st south and then down Foothill to the U.
Name not shown in District 5
May 2, 2013, 2:22 PM
My comment regards the consultants that have been used to assess the routes. They seem to look
narrowly at the area they are working on, (as though they're not from around here). As with the
Sunnyside proposal, are you solving a problem or creating one? For example, in Sugarhouse, how
does one get PAST Sugarhouse? If one is traveling from the North to 33rd, 39th, or 45th South to all
the businesses in that direction, many of which are between 9th and 13th East, how would you go?
Contribute to the bottleneck on 13th East? Drop way down to 7th East? (Same issue going south to
north). It looks like they're creating a knot.
Name not shown in District 7
May 2, 2013, 9:39 AM
I have been living in sugar house for almost 34 years and I am very happy about the streetcar going
North on 1100 East. I would very much like to see it connect with the University Trax line in the future.
Bill Holt in District 6
May 1, 2013, 10:54 PM
I do not feel like the Streetcar should go on either of the routes proposed by the City Council. The
comparisons they do to Denver and Portland are based on a walking area with no traffic. You cannot
close or congest a major entrance to Highland Drive, nor do the same to a major east-west traffic
route (2100 South). The only logical extension for the line would be through the existing Sugarhouse
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commons to the Park. There also has not been adequate time for residents of the affected areas to
consider the proposals and make comments. There needs to be more indepth transportation needs,
effects on traffic, noise, pollution, property value, etc. A vote should NOT be done by the city council
on May 7. Please, give this more time and listen to we, the residents of Sugarhouse!
julio facelli in District 6
May 1, 2013, 9:14 PM
The streetcar from Trax to Sugar House is a great project, but the extension of the streetcar on 11
east is not justified. Perhaps it may be ok to extend the streetcar up to the Sugar House Park, but
extension by 11 east is not reasonable and can't be justified. There are much better ways to spend
taxpayer dollars. Perhaps, the Council should focus on the real transportation problem in the area: the
foothills corridor. Off course, as good politicians the Council prefers to tinker with easy problems,
provide marginal improvements and claim victory instead of showing real leadership and tackle the
real transportation issue in the east bench.
Julio C. Facelli
1847 s 2600 e
salt lake city, ut 84108
julio.facelli@utah.edu
Derek Kitchen in District 3
May 1, 2013, 9:08 PM
I am in support of the 1100 East route to 1700 South. I feel that this would be the best route for
ridership and for supporting local business. I would ultimately like to see (hopefully within a year) a
comprehensive transit plan for Salt Lake City, which ties together all transit focus areas for the City. As
a business owner myself - currently in the Granary - I understand the concerns of many business
owners along 1100 East (primarily the concern about the impact of streetcar construction on
business). But as a shopper and transit commuter, I feel that 1100 East would be the most beneficial
for the long term health of our local economy. Yes it would be nice to connect Sugarhouse Park and
the 21st & 21st district, so why not explore the possibility of a BRT along 2100 So.?
Tyson Carbaugh-Mason in District 3
May 1, 2013, 6:38 PM
I believe that while the construction of a streetcar along the 1100 East corridor will be an off-putting
experience for the businesses and residents along the proposed route, UTA and Salt Lake City have
proven time and again through previous TRAX constriction that they are completely capable parties
for mitigating the negative impacts of construction as best as possible. We as a community must
exercise foresight in planning for the needs of our community not just today, but for many years in the
future, and as a connection to our past. Historically, streetcars used to run along 1100 East and now
the proximity of the proposed streetcar line to Westminster College, Sugarhouse Park, and the
Sugarhouse commercial district along 100 East seems to flow easily between these landmarks within
our community which many people come to visit. Alleviating traffic congestion along 1100 East would
be a welcomed sight to many people within the community, including myself.
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The one major question I have with the proposed 1100 East alignment, which I support, is how far
down 1100 East the line will continue. Continuing along 1100 East further than 900 South would pose
particularly dangerous driving conditions on the hill coming Westbound on 800 South. The roadway
as it exists today on 1100 East and 800 South would lead drivers blindly down toward a possible train
crossing. With a possible 800 South/Sunnyside road diet (which I also strongly support from the
results I have seen along 1300 East where I live. I cannot understate how fantastic living and walking
along 1300 East has been since the road diet!) could serve to alleviate possible problems in the future
is that is the City's desired route.
That being said, I believe there is also a great community connection to be made from a possible 9th
and 9th/Sugarhouse streetcar connection which I would urge the council to consider.
Name not shown in District 2
May 1, 2013, 2:51 PM
Well i think that the the streetcar should run across 1100 East. I dont think that the street car should
run along 2100 South. Some reasons why i want the street cars to run along 1100 East, is because
1100 East isn't a busy street. It may be small, but it just aint as busy as 2100 South. 2100 South, is is
a compacted road, adding a trax line to it, Personally i think it is causing more delay for everybody.
Mostly everybody knows how much traffic that runs on 2100 South in Sugar House. I think that if they
put up on 1100 East, i would be better and easier for everyone else.
Name not shown in District 6
April 30, 2013, 10:33 PM
I support taking the streetcar up 21st South via Wilmington. And I'm very frustrated by the
administration's continued insistence that the 11th East option is supported by independent
consultants. The analysis done by the "independent" traffic consultants was intentionally skewed to
yield the results desired by Mayor Becker, as per usual for this administration. It cannot possibly have
been a thorough analysis given that Sugarhouse Park was not included in the potential ridership. And
there is also no way that the economic viability of the two options is comparable. There are so many
more opportunities for increased tax revenues through additional housing units along 21st South. -The 11th East option will be a charming little photo op of a project that will do precious little to provide
real benefit of any kind to the local area or the city at large. The Mayor should listen to his
constituents, and he should stop funding "studies" designed to yield predetermined outcomes.
Name not shown in District 7
April 30, 2013, 12:51 PM
As a business located on Highland Drive, I am in favor of the line that would run along 1100 East and
terminate at 1700 S. While I understand there will be construction, I think the long run benefit will be
good for business and the community. I understand parking is a problem, but i believe the long term
effect on parking will be minimal. Also I think it would help if everyone kept in mind that the
construction phase of this project would be 5+ years down the road. Hopefully, by that time the sugar
hole will be finished and the new parking that brings will be available.
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I support the eastbound route (rather deceptively called 2100 South) running from the Fairmont Park
terminus east along Wilmington, north to the south side of 2100 South and then east along the north
side of Sugar House Park toward 1700 East. This route mostly avoids storefronts, serves numerous
recreational/educational/business entities, links up an area under-served by UTA and bicycle routs
with TRAX lines, and provides a logical route for future phases of the project. The 1100 East route,
running on this narrow street, will devastate most of what's left of the "quaint" Sugar House shops not
eliminated by the Sugar Hole fiasco* and provide access to little more than the Westminster campus,
a ten-minute walk from 2100 South.
*"Those who cannot remember the past are bound to repeat it."
Victor Nevarez in District 2
April 29, 2013, 5:28 PM
I would like to see a streetcar built around the westside Glendale area.
Travis Jones in District 4
April 29, 2013, 9:17 AM
Future phase of the Sugar House streetcar line should NOT go east along 2100 South. This
alignment is a bad idea, I believe, because of the following reasons:
- streetcars are (admitted by Salt Lake City and UTA) development tools, not necessarily a transit tool.
streetcars should be located corridors with future increases in density potential. The 2100 S route
takes it along the park which has no development. Having a streetcar adjacent to the park will put
development pressure on the park. I do not want to see condos or any development in one of the two
major parks in the city.
- future routes from 2100 S to connect towards the University or downtown will necessitate the
streetcar going thru single family residential neighborhood streets (2100 E, 1700 E, 2300 E). I
suspect these residents will resist the streetcar, and taking the streetcar thru this type of
neighborhood does not make sense since they will not redevelop.
It makes more sense to extend the streetcar along 1100 East. This corridor already has pockets of
commercial development and the density is greater than along 2100 South. The 1100 East alignment
could potentially connect with the 9th and 9th district which would serve a streetcar well. Taking the
streetcar north along 900 East from 900 South to connect toward TRAX and toward a future streetcar
to the University makes sense, too. There is redevelopment potential along sections of 1100 East and
in the future along 900 East.
John Fakahafua in District 2
April 29, 2013, 2:40 AM
I fully support this idea because I travel around these part of town majority of my days. This action will
also benefit me and I'm sure others as well with gas and money in this scares time. So I would love
this to happen in sugar house.
-J.Fakahafua
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Name not shown in District 6
April 27, 2013, 11:14 AM
The 2100 South route makes the most sense.
Kurt Bishop in District 5
April 27, 2013, 8:41 AM
At the city hall meeting, a rendering was provided that showed the sugarhouse streetcar going both
directions with the flow of traffic. It showed and it was stated that there would be no loss of parking on
1100 East. This would require a turnaround for the trolley, which takes up a lot of space and would
require condemnation of property at 1700 So. It would also slow/ congest traffic. As I now understand
it, the city is looking at a streetcar that goes back and forth in one line. That would need a dedicated
lane, as it would not go in line with cars. 1100 east is not wide enough for 3 lanes, one for each
direction of traffic and one for the trolley. That means the parking along 1100 E. would be sacrificed.
This street is a mix of residential and commercial. Both would lose parking. The city needs to be
honest about what the plan actually is and the consequences BOTH positive AND negative before
this proposal is just pushed through on May 7th.
Name not shown in District 3
April 26, 2013, 11:22 PM
No to the streetcar on 1100. The street is too narrow as it is.
Name not shown in District 7
April 26, 2013, 4:04 PM
I was unable to make the City Council meeting this week but I would like to comment on the proposal
to take the line down 1100 East. The plan to take the line down 1100 East would severely disrupt our
local businesses and community members along 1100 East. It seems more logical to take the line up
2100 South and Sugarhouse Park where it could eventually be connected to the University Trax line
along Foothill Blvd or head South along Highland. Those roads are wide enough to connect the lines
without as much disruption. This allows for future increased access to public transportation by East
Bench residents who currently lack access. It also allows for the potential to expand the line into the
canyon areas of the valley.
Additionally, the 1100 East plan puts the community at risk for delays in public safety response. It is
already quite congested, lacking space for fire trucks and ambulances to maneuver along 1100 East.
Construction of the line on 1100 East severely impairs the ability of emergency responders to serve
the community in that area.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
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I think this is a great idea that I fully support. I live in the sugarhouse area and a streetcar would
really help my transportation problem and save money on gas.
Dale Angell outside Salt Lake City
April 25, 2013, 9:59 PM
I would like to throw out a totally new plan. I am a train geek, I have gone to cities just to ride the light
rail and or trolley. San Josie has a great downtown loop running on the side of the street, forming a
turn around for a light rail line. But it serves as a greet way to get around the city center, even though
it's perhaps a mile total as a small car or two on some days, only circle the loop.
(http://www.railwaypreservation.com/vintagetrolley/sanjose.htm) If the Sugar House streetcar turns
WEST at 21st, going west to 9th east, then splitting north and south, with a line to 9th and 9th to the
north and back to the main line at Wilmington, this make a loop through the center of Sugar House,
just about one mile in length. A singel car "old style" trolley, (San Josie has 4 on the line that are
restored old cars) can circle this line 4 times an hour. (Denver has a modern trolly running along the
river that looks like a 100 year old car. not sure who built it, but I do know it was not a "one off", it's
something from a company that makes these. See
http://www.flickriver.com/photos/80651083@N00/3474084313/) 9th East is a wider street and can
handle the track with ease. This is not as good in many ways as 11th, but much less of a problem to
traffic, and doing much of the same thing. Not as good for Westminster, but still a good way to get to
Sugar House and a GREAT way to connect to 9th and 9th.
Pa'a Montalbo outside Salt Lake City
April 25, 2013, 9:46 PM
I would like to see the street car run through the park and also make stops near the McDonalds by
Highland HS. Also I think it should start by East HS to allow the students there easy transportation to
the beautiful Sugar House area
Name not shown in District 3
April 25, 2013, 11:30 AM
After attending the public hearing and researching the documents and issues related to the street car
I am suggesting that the council step back and drastically revamp their decision-making process on
this topic. At the hearing, over and over again, it was stated that there needs to be a master plan, that
there needs to be more research and there needs to be more open discussion. I am worried that
despite the councils best intention that the vote on May 7th is going to result in further discord of this
community. I strongly suggest to the council the only decision made is one to re-evaluate this entire
process.
Name not shown outside Salt Lake City
April 24, 2013, 4:24 PM
As a resident of Sugarhouse who walks and takes public transportation VERY often, I am much more
excited about the route proposed along 2100 S.
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I wish we could see long-term plans for both of these options. We should be informed of the big
picture before we're asked our opinions on the next step. I'd love for it to eventually hook up to the
University of Utah and give access to the Foothill Drive/Zoo area.
On a side note. It's getting ridiculous that distance-based fares have not been implemented by UTA.
Far more people would use public transit to go a few blocks if they didn't have to pay a whopping $5
round trip. It's insane to expect a local to pay the same fare when going a few blocks to the grocery
store as someone riding TRAX all the way from Draper.
Name not shown in District 5
April 24, 2013, 4:10 PM
I'm writing to voice my strong opposition to the proposed extension of the Sugarhouse street car line
north on 1100 East. The street is already very congested due to traffic calming measures
implemented on both 1100 and 1300 E streets. In addition, I very seriously doubt that there is a
strong case (economically or otherwise) that would justify the expense. Ridership from the adjacent
neighborhoods would not be substantial. The addition of the line to 1100 E. would likely reduce
property values and present a noise problem for those living on or near the street. If the city is
serious about using funds effectively for mass transit, consideration should be given to more effective
routes such as 2100 S. to the Walmart shopping center area and down Foothill Drive which carries
many single driver vehicles. Please avoid ruining the many neighborhoods along 1100 E.
Dave Maynes in District 7
April 24, 2013, 2:48 PM
1100 East. Higher density, Westminster College and potential future connectivity to 400 south TRAX.
No brainer!
Name not shown in District 6
April 24, 2013, 1:52 PM
Hi. I have been following the debate and wanted to weigh in. I live 3 blocks from Sugarhouse Park. I
use the post office and gas station on 11th. I shop in the Sugarhouse shopping area.
There are better (and less impactful) ways to expand transit service on 1100 East than adding in a
streetcar. That street would need more than a streetcar to be pedestrian-friendly. It would first need a
major development of businesses geared towards bringing folks into the area. Right now the
businesses there that are frequented the most are car-friendly. With the street being so narrow,
adding a streetcar would mean eliminating a driving lane, or a sidewalk, encroaching on the already
limited space and crowded buildings.
Please extend the line to the east to Sugar House Park and then up 2100 South. It would mean less
negative impact on the surrounding area and more possibility for further expansion. The area is
already making a push for being pedestrian-friendly. There will already be pedestrian-friendly
businesses. Why not invest where they are already making an effort? It would be a much smarter
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investment for Sugarhouse's future and the transit network. Thank you for this consideration.
Name not shown in District 7
April 24, 2013, 1:31 PM
I would like to see the city have a master plan for public transit prior to implementing a street car in
Sugarhouse. That said, my preference would be to see a street car head up 2100 South and connect
upper and lower Sugarhouse.
I do not want the street car on 1100 East. I strongly believe that putting a street car on 1100 East
(which is all ready congested), would add to the congestion and jeopardize the charm and integrity of
the local businesses that line this portion of the street. Large scale development has all ready pushed
out so much of the local business charm of this area. To further push out local businesses and
increase congestion in an all ready congested area will only negate the point of a streetcar. If there is
nothing original and worth seeing in a neighborhood that you couldn't get at Fashion Place mall or the
church's City Creek, what will draw people to this neighborhood anymore? 2100 South has the space
and the capacity to handle a streetcar, please consider this location.
John Woods in District 2
April 24, 2013, 1:28 PM
There are three destinations that make sense for an extension of the Sugar House street car line.
One is Westminster College, another is the Sugar House Shopping Center and the third is the
Brickyard Plaza Shopping Center to the south. It would make some sense to serve Highland High
School, but I would expect less ridership there than at the other locations.
The areas along both 1100 East and 2100 South to the north and east of those destinations seems to
be too low density to benefit from a street car. Given the apparent opposition to those routes
expressed in the public meeting, local residents do not want to encourage high density residential use
that would alter their neighborhood while making the street car line viable. These areas would be
better served by a network of light weight buses on routes designed to collect people and bring them
to a stop at the eastern end of the street car line. It would make more sense in the long run to serve
the area to the east by extending another street car line to the southeast of the University of Utah
along Foothill Drive to serve the commercial areas along that corridor and the eastern bench
residential areas. That scenario would fit better with current commuting patterns.
If the goal is to serve the college, then it would make most sense to me to extend the line across
Highland Ave to Hidden Hollow Park and turn north, crossing 2100 South at 1200 East and continuing
on to the college near the Village Green complex. The college could be connected to the station with
a beautiful pedestrian path along Emigration Creek. It would require designing a shared road space
along 1200 East to provide safe access to the few existing single family homes on that street, but it
would serve some relatively high density apartments along 12th East and serve both the college and
Sugar House Shopping Center. Nice landscaping could create a street that is still a nice place to live
with an interesting urban feel. It would also have the advantage of keeping existing collector traffic
moving on both 11th and 13th East Streets.
If however, the goal is to serve more businesses and create opportunity for mixed use transit oriented
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development, it would make more sense to serve Sugar House Shopping Center and turn south,
either on Highland or 1300 East and continue south to serve the Brickyard Plaza Shopping Center.
That would create another opportunity to develop a high density mixed use center which would build
ridership on the street car line. In that scenario, Westminster College could be served by a shuttle
with frequent trips to the Sugar House Shopping Center station on the new street car line. That
service could even start now when the first phase of the street car line opens.
Name not shown in District 7
April 24, 2013, 12:01 PM
Whoever is proposing streetcar expansion obviously does not live where the streetcars will run. I
have to get my kids to school up 21 st every morning and it is already busy, the streetcar continuing
up 21st is going to make that even more difficult. As far as the streetcar crossing and continuing
north down 1100 east, that road near the intersection with 21st is a nightmare as it is. The street car
will make it worse. The people who have to drive these streets because we live very near to the
streetcar will still have to drive them. The streetcar will not alleviate any of that burden, it will only
increase it.
Name not shown in District 7
April 24, 2013, 11:31 AM
As a Sugar House resident and active pedestrian, I would love to see the street car go along 1100 E.
and eventually connect to 9th and 9th/TRAX. Eleventh East is hands down the most logical route, with
existing pedestrian friendly commercial/retail and potential for more of the same. The route also has
more existing density and potential for future infill and density. The same cannot be said about the
2100 South route, which services a primarily low-density single family residential neighborhood that
will likely remain the same for the next 100 years. In addition, it is a "street" car, not TRAX. 1100 E is
a pedestrian oriented STREET, 2100 is far from pedestrian oriented (with the exception of one
intersection at 21st & 21st) and it a major principal arterial road/thoroughfare. Therefore, it seems
better suited for BRT or even TRAX (although again, the density doesn't exist to justify that type of
investment). The 2100 route would only service the residents living in the Country Club and East
Bonneville Hills neighborhood because very few others will ride into that neighborhood, as it has very
few amenities/destinations beyond residential. In order for it to be a logical investment, 2 way ridership
traffic seems essential.
It is a shame that so much misinformation has been spread and I' am disappointed that it has become
such a divisive issue within the community. It is also disheartening that there isn't a larger "support"
voice heard amongst the 1100 East route supporters, because I know they exist based on dozens
and dozens of conversations with residents and business owners in the area. I guess that is the
nature of public participation, it's easier to get the opposition rallied up and vocal as opposed to
getting the supporters to voice their opinion.
Name not shown in District 7
April 24, 2013, 10:39 AM
Please do not route down 1100 East. It's already quite easy to walk along 1100 East and most of the
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area past the post office is residential.
Celisse Wofford in District 5
April 24, 2013, 9:38 AM
The proposed route of the street car north along 11th East is not a viable option the street is too
narrow and the consequences of more congested traffic on other main roads such as 7th East,
various side streets, and 13th East. as a resident of the liberty wells district. I often shop and spend
time in the Sugar House area, and have been watching the development of the street car. In my
opinion the community would be best served by having the street car stop at it's present point with
phase 1 and call that good. There is nothing wrong with a good stretch of the legs a walk will provide.
Susan Sandack in District 7
April 24, 2013, 8:05 AM
I agree we need more east/west public transportation options. 1100 east is too small and residential
of an area to have a large transpo system running through. Citizens and visitors expect to find and
use streetcars in business districts - not neighborhoods. I'm not xenophobic (fear of strangers), but I
would rather not see the city giving easy access for strangers to the quiet neighborhoods of
Sugarhouse. And regarding noise: A dripping faucet is not necessarily loud, but the rhythm is
annoying. My preference is to run the streetcar east/west on 2100 South.
Name not shown in District 5
April 23, 2013, 9:57 PM
Here's a vote for the 11th east route, as far north as you can go. As an east side Liberty Wells
resident, I live in the city core to have good access and not rely on a car, but feel like I have very
limited access to mass transit (rail). By the time I get in a car to get to trax, I typically may as well just
drive. Bring the streetcar up 11th would put it in walking distance, linking us into the system.
Peggy McDonough in District 7
April 23, 2013, 8:41 PM
As an emeritus member of the SLC Planning Commission, and a resident who lives within a block of
the 2100 So. / 1100 E. intersection, I strongly agree with Council Member Soren Simonsen, in all of
the points he outlined in his letter of April 12, 2013. Particularly, the following:
++ An extension to 1300 East and Sugar House Park would better connect into to the Sugar House
Shopping Center, which is the largest retail and employment center in Salt Lake City outside of
downtown and the University of Utah. This area is zoned for higher density, mixed-use similar to
downtown Salt Lake City, and development plans are already being drawn to gradually replace older
sections of the shopping center. Integrating the streetcar into new development plans will add
capacity for growth, while reducing negative impacts to existing neighborhoods and local business
districts. This option stands a better chance of keeping streetcar costs at a minimum to the
community. Developers, property owners and the community are excited for just this type of integrated
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development, which is also a clear goal and vision of our community as reflected in our master plans.
++ Beyond the extension to 1300 East and Sugar House Park, I believe the best long-term decision
for our City is to continue the streetcar further east along 2100 South—initially to Highland High
School, and eventually beyond.
++ The current proposal to take the streetcar on 1100 East to 1700 South does not connect directly to
a destination. Even if it extends further to the north, it won’t connect directly to any major destinations.
Getting to Downtown or the University would require an additional transfer, and each transfer adds
time and becomes a disincentive to using transit.
++ If you look at potential riders north or east from the two alternatives, there is much higher demand
for additional future extensions to the east beyond the area of this study.
++ There are better (and less impactful) ways to expand transit service on 1100 East than adding in a
streetcar.
++ By extending the streetcar to the east on 2100 South, we would also expand opportunities to
improve a bus transit network on 1100 East, 1300 East, 1500 East,
1700 East, 2100 East, 2300 East, Parleys Way and Foothill Boulevard as well. (A much smarter
investment for the City's future transit network)
++ (The study) had very little input from students, including those at Highland High, Westminster, and
the University of Utah. These students use transit more than those of us who are older, and surveys
show that student and younger populations are choosing to live and work in places with good transit
service in increasing numbers.
I am sure the public hearing revealed justified resident anxiety of traffic impact of the 1100 East
extension option, with which I agree as well. However, the strongest selection reasoning lies with the
east extension strategy to reinforce the multi-use community node east of Highland Drive and south of
2100 South. By far, the smarter investment is the 2100 extension transit option, as it will provide our
City with future flexible options for community connection and improvements along this major transit
artery.
Curtis Haring in District 3
April 23, 2013, 8:39 PM
1100 E. is a very logical route for an extension to go.
First off, the road could support a rail line and increase access to small shops, residents, and
Westminster College.
Second, the less traveled road (when compared to 1300 E. or 700 E.) means that overall impact of
car travel will be reduced both during and after construction.
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Third, concerns over sound and safety, I feel, are unfounded. Light Rail, which is a much heavier and
louder train, is still a very quiet mode of transport - A slower moving, lighter, streetcar should be even
safer and quieter than the current system.
Opposition appears to be the same opposition that pops up whenever a new TRAX line is proposed
and, I suspect, will disappear just as quickly when the line opens.
The new line is expected to get the most bang for our buck and serve the majority of Salt Lake's
citizens, be they residents, shop owners, or students.
Jonathan Hamelin in District 7
April 23, 2013, 7:04 PM
I moved to the area so my family can enjoy all that Sugarhouse has to offer. What that means to us is
walkable neighborhoods and parks. I travel on 1100 east daily and DO NOT want this area to be
altered to serve a very limited few (3600) that are only using the area temporarily. If access to
Westminster is the concern, then put the trolly line on 1300 east so there is a direct connection to the
new student housing. I for one highly doubt any college kid is going to walk downhill to 1100, ride the
line for 3 blocks, and then walk back uphill to school.
I am in favor of the line in general and would love to have access up 2100 south past the park and
continue up to Foothill and over past the university of Utah to connect with the Trax line that ends at
the stadium. The impact to the neighborhoods surrounding the proposed 1100 east section is too
great and would remove the benefit of living in this area.
Rick Gregory in District 6
April 23, 2013, 7:02 PM
NOT up 1100 East!
With only a single pair of rails, the streetcar will have only one train moving between Sugarhouse and
2100 South TRAX. This will be a nice tourist draw and probably take some riders away from the 2100
S buses, but as far as being or becoming an integral link in the city transportation network, probably
not. It really should be referred to as the Sugarhouse Yo-Yo - back-and-forth, back-and-forth,....
What is REALLY NEEDED is a TRAX line up Foothill Drive; a loop through Sugarhouse would
become a shortcut for those wishing to avoid the downtown congestion and delays. But this requires a
second set of rails to be efficient and mesh with the remainder of the TRAX system.
Please, let's have a discussion about the ENTIRE TRAX system, not this piecemeal segment by
segment approach. Anything less than system-thinking will result in such anomalies as the Intermodel
Deadend (aka "Hub").
Name not shown in District 7
April 23, 2013, 6:47 PM
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I oppose extending rail lines into suburban neighborhoods where bus routes are available. The usage
of the street car line now under construction remains in question. However, one thing we know for
sure - it will require endless tax payer subsidies to maintain and operate – another excuse to raise
property taxes.
Regarding an extension, those who say they care deeply about pollution have little to say about the
noise associated with a rail system or the resulting traffic congestion. Then there is safety, which in
this town, seems to be especially challenging when it comes to rails.
I ride a bike, I walk and I rode the UTA for years, but in my opinion, nothing beats driving a fuelefficient, low-emission car. If we have money to burn, let’s improve the roads.
Subhash Kithany in District 7
April 23, 2013, 6:27 PM
I prefer the Streetcar route along 2100 south rather than 1100 East. Here are my reasons:
1. Salt Lake City needs more east-west public transport
2. 2100 South has more potential to bring more people under public transport
3. 1100 East will serve limited number
4. 1100 East has less room to build rails- the place is already very crowded- unless you demolish
some buildings
ps: I live and work in Sugar House area.
Greg Van Dyke in District 5
April 23, 2013, 6:26 PM
I live in an area that would be immediately served by the extension (1700 s 1100e), and I am opposed
to the extension, either here or otherwise. the area immediately adjacent to 2100 s on 1100e is a
traffic nightmare, and would be made worse by this extension. There is an existing bus line (213),
that serves this area and connects it to the trax line to the north.
Jennifer Pinkowski in District 7
April 23, 2013, 4:51 PM
Since when has it been "OK" for public monies to be used to transport students to their private
college, which happens to be about 3 blocks away from where most of them reside?
This proposed streetcar line up 1100 east to 1700 South, the "Line to Nowhere", (except connect the
rich kids to their college) makes no sense to the taxpayers of the city, the residents of these everdwindling eclectic neighborhoods, or the small, local business owners who operate within the
neighborhood confines. Perhaps it only makes sense to a few over-privileged students who are too
lazy to walk, ride a bike, or take the bus. Perhaps Westminster should construct itself a parking
structure to accommodate its students. It's not my responsibility, my neighbor's responsibility, or the
responsibility of any tax-paying property owner in SLC. The residents of Sugarhouse have made their
decision about this route very clear. No, and no, and no again!!! Simple.
It will be very interesting to see if the good 'ol "secret handshake and old-school tie crowd" will win out
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again, destroying a neighborhood (or destroying anything, for that matter) for their own selfish ends
with no regard for the permanent residents who have worked so hard to keep it real.
Keep it real, City Council Members! We're paying attention.
Name not shown in District 7
April 23, 2013, 4:26 PM
No...No.....No. It makes no logical sense to run a rail line down 1100 e ending...nowhere and at the
bottom of a hill. There are too many arguments that make sense for continuing the line to the east
through sugarhouse park and to the underserved public transportation hole that is the east bench.
Then think of the traffic impact on the neighborhoods that border this prime retail area.....devastating.
The traffic on 1000 e during prime hours (and people's incapacity to follow posted speed limits and
traffic direction...is a round about too difficult?) is already too dangerous for my children to play freely
in front of my home. Adding a streetcar to 1100 e would do nothing but increase the number of drivers
avoiding lights and regulation as they move east from 900 e and w from 1100 e. The only logical line
would run north through the business district and then along the north edge of sugarhouse park...how
much fun on the 4th of July....what great access to the east bench 2100 and 2100 area....and
ultimately the U of U.
I hope public interest serves the public good....not a random spur that con only serve students from a
private educational institution.
Michael Rubin in District 7
April 23, 2013, 3:26 PM
I live in the Sugarhouse neighborhood in the immediate vicinity of the proposed extension of the
streetcar north along 1100 East. I am strongly opposed to this extension plan for a number of
reasons.
1. 1100 East, at least the portion just north of 2100 South, is a two-lane road that is already
exceptionally congested. The streetcar will run in the traffic lanes, and according to the city, it will "run
slowly" and "make frequent stops". As it's a two-lane road, there won't be any simple way for cars to
get around the streetcar, creating more congestion. I have not heard any solutions for this from the
city, except possibly creating designated stopping points on the side of the street for the streetcar,
which means removal of parking spaces from 1100 East. In my opinion, this will only add to the
congestion and parking problems.
2. I don't believe the streetcar will have a significantly positive impact on congestion around the corner
of 1100 East and 2100 South. In fact, as above, I think it will potentially worsen the congestion. This
may very well lead to increased use of shortcuts through our neighborhood as people get around the
busy intersection. I don't see the streetcar discouraging it, but rather the opposite.
3. Turning north off of Hollywood Ave onto 1100 East is already a problem in the mornings, evenings,
and weekends due to congestion (and the Post Office). My sense is this will only worsen with the
streetcar.
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4. Most of the businesses we've talked with on 1100 East are opposed to the streetcar, as it will cause
significant issues for them during construction, as well as likely remove precious parking spaces.
5. I don't believe the city adequately assessed the impact of the streetcar on the businesses and
neighborhoods most impacted by it. I think the city is putting too much weight on the opinions of the
Westminister community, and not enough on those of the immediate neighborhood around 1100 East.
The study done by the city failed to assess the impact of the 1100 East extension on the surrounding
streets and neighborhoods.
6. The businesses and community along 2100 South would much more easily handle the interruptions
caused by construction than the small, successful businesses along 1100 East, mostly because the
road is wide enough to handle it better.
Name not shown in District 7
April 23, 2013, 3:05 PM
I am a business owner in Sugarhouse, Barber Tax Service. We are located on 17th S and 11th E and
would welcome and support the new streetcar route up 11th East.
Name not shown in District 5
April 23, 2013, 2:34 PM
I live on 11th E and am not in favor of the street car being on it. It will harm businesses and will create
more congestion. The best route would be the one going east towards Sugar House Park and
Foothill. This would be the best option for connecting neighborhoods and helping businesses in the
long run.
Bryce Garner in District 2
April 23, 2013, 1:22 PM
I think that the city council should recommend the 1100 East alignment. This is the alignment that will
have the highest ridership.
What is the use of spending thousands of dollars on a consultant to come up with the recommended
alignment based on numbers that come from their research only to have city councilmen say they do
not like that alignment and want something that serves their own purposes.
I understand that many of the businesses are afraid of the effect of construction. One can look at the
Airport TRAX line construction to see that the contractors and UTA bend over backwards to assist the
local businesses. During the Airport line construction, only one local business along North Temple
closed down. Sugar House has a large enough pedestrian/biking community that those businesses
will have plenty of business--especially with all of the apartment buildings that are being constructed
and planned in the near future.
I notice that some have said the buses on 2100 south have high ridership. This is probably because
most of those start or end at the University of Utah which is the largest single employer in the state,
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not to mention all of the students.
Name not shown in District 7
April 23, 2013, 1:16 PM
The proposal to extend the streetcar east to Sugar House Park and Highland High School is brilliant.
Sugar House Park is an extremely popular location for all citizens of Salt Lake City, not just residents
of Sugar House. The northbound on 1100 east option ignores this issue entirely. Highland High
students deserve consideration as much as Westminster students. The Westminster students need
only walk ONE additional block with the eastbound proposal vs the two blocks with the northbound
proposal. Eventually extending the streetcar to the Foothill Village area would be an excellent step
toward a line connecting to the University of Utah. Taking the streetcar east along Wilmington avenue
and the Shopko region will benefit not only more businesses but also improve walkability in Sugar
House.
Sally Barraclough in District 7
April 23, 2013, 12:06 PM
As a member of the SH Community Council and a citizen of District 7, I have had the opportunity to
attend many public outreach meetings regarding the future expansion of the Sugar House Street Car
project. I have listened carefully to pros and cons of both the 11th East and 21st South alignments.
I believe the best alternative route is North on 11th East for the following reasons.
•11th East to 17th South is already a viable business and housing corridor with many retail shops,
restaurants, and housing units. The Sugar House Station Post Office is one the busiest in the city.
Putting the Street Car on 21st South in order to spur future economic growth would ignore an already
established area of Sugar House.
•An 11th East route will relieve the auto congestion in the Sugar House business district. This is
critical as we are adding many housing units near this route.
•The 11th East route will be a safer route for pedestrians using the Street Car. With one travel lane in
each direction north and south, 11th East has a naturally slower traffic flow. 21st South has multiple
lanes of traffic with more potential for pedestrians to cross in an unsafe manner to get on the Street
Car.
•Students at Westminster College are on campus and living in our community 24hrs per day all year
round. They will utilize the Street Car more consistently than Highland High School students who go
home in the afternoon and are not in school in the summer months.
•The money spent to lay 2+blocks of track along the north side of Sugar House Park would be better
spent extending the track north on 11th east.
Sally Barraclough
2828 South Filmore St.
SHCC Trustee, Citizen District 7
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Very weak reasons were given in the Simonsen and Luke letters promoting eastward extension of the
street car line.
Actually, residence properties eastward along 2100 S. would decline in value, and many residences
would gradually be replaced by transient struggling commerce, spoiling the peaceful park and
neighborhoods.
Residents do not want or need a street car.
If there are public funds to burn, please spend on bike racks, bike and pedestrian safety, and security
personnel in the existing Sugarhouse business district.
Jeff Pickett in District 7
April 23, 2013, 9:33 AM
I live in District 7 and have lived here for nearly 30 years. I drive along 2100 South every day and,
consequently, am very familiar with the traffic patterns along this street. With that background, I am
greatly concerned about extending the Streetcar line beyond McClelland Street and north along 1100
East for the following reasons: (1) 1100 East is a narrow street that is already extremely congested.
While a streetcar will reduce some traffic, I do not believe it would reduce traffic enough to offset the
loss of one or more lanes. (2) The 2100 S/1100 E intersection is very busy. I drive through that
intersection everyday during rush hour and cannot imagine how busy it would be with lane restrictions
due to a streetcar line. (3) The destination serves a very limited population (2,500 students at
Westminster) who need to travel a short distance to a single destination. While I recognize that there
may be a need for these students, it seems like bus lines along 1100 East would be a better solution
to meet their needs.
Despite these concerns, I am even more concerned with Council Member Simonsen's proposal of
extending the Streetcar line east to Sugarhouse Park, Highland High, and eventually further east. I
have these concerns for the following reasons: (1) For many of the reasons described above, I have
concerns with the line going along 1100 East due to congestion even if it turns east at 2100 South.
(2) The section along 2100 South from 1100 East to 1300 East is the busiest section of 2100 South.
A streetcar would further limit traffic flow and increase congestion and would limit access to those
businesses along that section of 2100 South. (3) The stretch along 2100 South from 1300 East to
1700 East, while less congested than the 1100 East to 1300 East section, becomes incredibly
congested during rush hour, particularly the westbound side with the two turn lanes that turn left
(south) onto 1300 East. In addition, when there are accidents at that intersection, I have seen traffic
backed up all the way to 2300 East. Having a streetcar line that takes some of those traffic lanes
would further increase the congestion. (4) There are homes and a high school along 2100 South
from 1300 East eastward. I worry that the children living in those homes and attending these schools
will be at greater risk of accidents happening, particularly the young drivers attending Highland High.
(5) I'm greatly concerned about extending the line beyond 1700 East as traffic is heavy and the
streets are narrow. Particularly during the morning rush hour, there is a lot of congestion at the
21st/21st intersection because of parents taking their children to Dilworth. A streetcar will not solve
those issues and will further compound them. The bottom line is that 2100 South was not designed
for a streetcar which would further limit traffic flow. Furthermore, I fear that congestion along 2100
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South will increase traffic in the surrounding neighborhoods on residential streets.
I recognize that the majority of my concerns relate to congestion in an already busy area and that the
logical counter-argument is that a streetcar will relieve the congestion. In his recent letter to the
residents of District 7, Council Member Simonsen noted that there are "very few bus routes running
north and south through this area, and none that run continuously east and west." I fear that we are
not answering the question, "why is that the case?" The reason these bus lines don't exist is because
the demand for public transportation in these areas does not exist. If the demand existed, UTA would
create the necessary bus lines because they would generate a profit for UTA. Unfortunately, I fear we
have an attitude of "if we build it, they will come." That line of thinking is backwards. The proper line
of thinking is if the demand for the services is there, we should build the line. I fear the demand is not
there.
Finally, while we are no longer technically in a recession, most people are treating their personal
finances as if we are in a recession. It seems to me that the prudent thing right now would be for our
government to treat our tax dollars as if we were in a recession as well. Part of the money that is
being spent on this is mine and I do not want my hard-earned money spent making traffic in my
neighborhood more congested than it already is.
Name not shown in District 6
April 23, 2013, 9:05 AM
I think 2100 up to Sugar House Park makes the most sense. 1100 east is too narrow. Students can
easily access the quick walk to Westminster from 2100 South.
Dennis Lawrence in District 6
April 23, 2013, 8:54 AM
My wife and I have lived in the Sugar House area (1700 East and 1700 South) for over 40 years. We
approved the Sugar House street car extension because it utilized an existing right-of-way that had
not been used for years and seemed a natural to connect Sugar House by rail to the rest of the City.
We have no express opinion about the termination alternatives except that the Sugar House
Monument is the Hub of Sugar House and should remain so by receiving the street car.
However, the street car should terminate at sugar house. We are very much opposed to an extension
North along 1100 East. This street has and does hold a long history with us of small eclectic
businesses on a very narrow street and a street car here would crowd out our access to those
businesses that depend on customers from the outlying residential community to drive to their
location. More importantly we would loose all those businesses during the construction. Main Street
in Salt Lake has never returned to the same it was before the Trax line. Our friends and relatives who
own businesses on North Temple have suffered a lot with many closing their doors from the
restrictions to traffic and long delays. Please do not do this to our 1100 East community that we
admire. Enhance the walking and biking and bus traffic instead.
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I recommend the spur heading north on 1100 East. The population of students served by this would
be greater than any population that could be serviced going east to Highland High. Students who do
not use public transit to attend school have service provided by the school district. College students
on the other hand, do not enjoy that service. I am most concerned with (1) the massive construction
that will happen in the heart of a residential community and (2) the practicality of running the line
east...what is the purpose other than just grabbing federal grants that are currently available? What
will it service? People going to cowboy grub or foothill village? There is not enough economic activity
to justify this extension eastward and it would not serve the community well to have this disruption for
nothing. I do not believe that it would be used to go to sugarhouse park as it is a community park and
those who live closer to Fairmont or Liberty Park would likely just go to those parks as they have
similar features as Sugarhouse. This park does not offer anything unique that would consistently draw
visitors. Some recommend that it should extend to Foothill Boulevard to attractions, but it seems much
more feasible to run TRAX from its current line, to Foothill and on the side of the belt route in the
future transportation plan. It would be a waste of taxpayers dollars to construct this line and cause too
much disruption to a residential community that will likely not use it enough to make it worthwhile. I
support the streetcar as it is currently laid out and also support a spur extending north on 1100 East
because of the population it would serve and the need it would meet. If the extension were to be
initiated, I see the community becoming a commuter community, housing more students and driving
families out of the city... I would likely move my family from the community if this were to happen and
use my property as a rental property. I see this being the case for the community, which would be a
shame as it is one of the best communities in which to raise children near the city.
Name not shown in District 7
April 23, 2013, 8:37 AM
I feel that the streetcar line should go east on 2100 S. This would enable people throughout the
valley to easily access downtown Sugarhouse as well as Sugarhouse park. This option makes more
sense than going up 1100 E to 1700 S. Please take the line east on 2100 S.
Jenny Girten in District 7
April 23, 2013, 8:36 AM
I prefer the street car proceed eastward toward Sugar House Park. That is a true destination that
draws people from across the city, and will increase business traffic to that shopping area. Sugar
House is unique for its walkability/bikeability (if that is a word?) combined with the shopping/business
giving it an urban flair. Placing the street car on 1100 East will make me NOT want to walk to the post
office or library, or use the bike lane, due to the noise and congestion - I will safer in a car and that is
what we are trying to reduce! Taking the street car further east begins the process of expanding
public transit in a larger loop for the city up toward Foothill and then the University of Utah in the
future. I am excited to use it to connect with the Central Pointe trax station.
Name not shown in District 7
April 23, 2013, 8:11 AM
Please consider continuing the streetcar eastbound. This would be safer for travelers rather than
having to cross 13th East by foot. 11th East is great with pockets of street parking and walkable retail
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neighborhood. No need for streetcar there. The bigger picture, UTA, needs to be incorporated into
these improvements. It is so difficult to teach our children the benefits of Mass Transit when cost is
prohibitive and routes are scarce. We find Mass Transit easy to use when we are visiting other cities.
. . San Francisco, Seattle, Boston, New York. Thank you.
Timothy T. Brosnahan, Jr. in District 6
April 23, 2013, 2:54 AM
TRANSPORTATION SERVICE TO THE EAST BENCH OAK HILLS AREA MUST BE RESTORED!
Utah's Hogle Zoo and This Is The Place Heritage State Park are restricted to three busses zooinbound mornings and three busses zoo-outbound evenings scheduled to accommodate employees.
Utah's Hogle Zoo may be the only major zoo without regularly scheduled public transportation service
in the Association of Zoos & Aquariums. Would this fact hinder Utah's Hogle Zoo's accreditation
status?
UTA's FRONTRUNNER from Ogden to Provo and TRAX service to Salt Lake International Airport has
been established since discontinuance of UTA service to Utah's Hogle Zoo and This Is The Place
Heritage State Park, thus providing a whole new ridership.
The Hogle Zoo, concerned about liability turning around busses in their parking lot, was
accommodated by a turn-around scheme at This Is The Place Heritage Park. Utah Transit Authority
conducted its audit during the week Crestview Drive was closed off, deceptively showing less
ridership to the Crestview Drive to Vista View Drive to Kennedy Drive route. During the public
hearing, there were only two negative comments. One from a Vista View resident who had just
moved in within 30 days of the hearing and thought the bus service would interrupt her sleep
Saturday mornings (she has since changed her opinion, as it would have been a great service for her
continuing piano students) and another who had her property up for sale and thought bus service
would devalue her property (she moved approximatley 60 days of the discontinued service).
The condominiums on Donner Way and Kennedy Drive have needs for public transportation:
1. for medical, service and domestic employees.
2. Many elderly used UTA on a regular basis when UTA service was available.
3. "Paratransit service only covers areas that are within three-fourths of a mile boundry of a fixed bus
route and around the TRAX rail stations" thus making this service unassessible to current residents in
this highly needed public transportation area.
4. Petitions with signatures of residents from all buildings in this area requesting service be restored
was provided to UTA, however, UTA countered with its audit taken while Crestview Drive was totally
closed to traffic for construction and bus service was temporarily halted.
Donner Trails Park on Kennedy Drive has one of the most beautiful views of Salt Lake City and
accommodates soccer practice, picnicing and a nearly one-mile circular walking path. Both Donner
Trails Park and Rotary Glen Park adjoin Utah's Hogle Zoo to the East and are both currently without
public transportation.
Timothy T. Brosnahan, Jr.
1065 Donner Way
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Salt Lake City, Utah 84108-2506
Resident at this address for over 33 years
Formerly Public Relations / Special Projects for This Is The Place Heritage State Park
Current Utah's Hogle Zoo Booster
Denice Lingen in District 7
April 23, 2013, 12:24 AM
I would like to see the streetcar route extended east to Sugarhouse Park. I feel that this is a location
that would be beneficial for both those traveling to the east side (as a destination) and also those
residing in Sugarhouse. Connecting the streetcar line to Sugarhouse Park would also bring access to
the shopping center on 1300 East and would have a positive effect on commerce in the area. I live
between 1300 East and 2000 East, and over the past 10 years, we have seen public transit cut back
severely in our area. I would love to have a viable option that would take residents of our community
to the trax line, and bringing the streetcar route even a few blocks further east would make this route
more accessible for us.
Jahn Barlow in District 3
April 22, 2013, 10:39 PM
Whatever you do, please keep the streetcar away from the Sugar House monument plaza. Please
expand this pedestrian-only area in the heart of Sugar House!
Going east along 2100 South seems to make the most sense for now. Eventually, Salt Lake needs to
create North/South streetcar connections between the University TRAX line and the Sugar House
streetcar line, but from the video presentation, it sounds like those residential area need a lot more
study to determine the best route(s). Should it be located on 500 East, 700 East, 1100 East or 1300
East? Or some combination of those? It's hard to say right now, until the master transportation plan is
developed. If the streetcar line goes north on 1100 East, it will almost inevitably end up going through
9th & 9th. Both 1100 East (between 2100 and 1700 South) and 9th and 9th are neighborhoods with a
great organic urban vibe and both are very walkable areas of the city. Do we risk ruining what is
already working without studying the effect of streetcars on these neighborhoods? 2100 South (east
of 1300 East) does not have a good urban vibe and is far from the most inviting pedestrian corridor in
the Sugar House vicinity. I think a streetcar can only improve 2100 South and make it feel more like
an urban street, and less like a suburban thoroughfare.
I understand the need to connect to Westminster, but as others have indicated, it's a relatively short
and safe walk or bike ride to the proposed streetcar route on 1300 East and 2100 South. Walking and
bicycling are the ultimate green options. If Westminster students want to show their support for a
sustainable community, this short distance is not a significant barrier to their access public transit.
michael maloney in District 7
April 22, 2013, 7:09 PM
I agree completely with Mr. Simonson assessment of the routes for the short and long term
expansion of the Sugarhouse streetcar system. North on 11th east should not be an option. Being a
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resident of Sugarhouse for the past 26 years I look forward to using this system.
thank you, M.J.Maloney
Tricia J in District 7
April 22, 2013, 6:11 PM
I would prefer that the streetcar extension head east to Sugarhouse Park and Highland High. I spend
quite a bit of time on foot in the area while walking my dog and see many more pedestrians on the
sidewalks between 1100 East and 1300 East than I do when heading north to the post office.
East/west travel is an issue in our area and while it would be great to have the funding for both, since
that is not the case I think the community would be better served by extending the streetcar east
instead of north.
Name not shown outside Salt Lake City
April 22, 2013, 5:50 PM
I think its best if we keep it the way it is. Yes, there is traffic but in the long run it affects our
ecosystem. Global warming is getting worse and worse whether we realize it or not. Which will only
cause more Utahns to pay taxes, create more problems and higher debt. I say instead of having a
street car, lets widen the streets. That'll save much more money, and help our ecosystem out a little
bit. Lesser traffic and safer roadways.
Name not shown in District 7
April 22, 2013, 3:27 PM
1100 E / Highland is already narrow enough and congested enough. The entire community would be
better served with a line that continues to head East towards FootHill.
Rachel Otto in District 5
April 22, 2013, 3:08 PM
I prefer the 1100 East route for the second phase. This is a high-traffic area that would really benefit
from increased non-car connectivity. It seems like adversaries of this option don't understand that the
streetcar will not preclude auto traffic; it will simply decrease it.
Kyle Deans in District 5
April 22, 2013, 2:43 PM
The 1100 East option is the most logical alignment for the future Streetcar extension. I serves a more
densely populated area, and ultimately serves more residents, businesses and other destinations,
such as Westminster College.
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Westminster has made a serious investment in the Sugarhouse neighborhood, Westminster on the
Draw, and other projects will provide housing opportunities for additional students, including the
Wilmington Ave Project, the Mecham Project and the Cowboy Partners project. Extending the line
north on 1100 East will best serve both the college and the Sugarhouse Business District.
The only upside to the 2100 South alignment is that is provides access to Sugarhouse Park. The
area east of 13th East is much more suburban in nature (compared to other areas of the city) with no
potential for upzoning adjacent to or near the Streetcar line. The proximity of dense population
adjacent to 2100 S is much lower than that on 1100 E.
1100 East provides the possibility of upzoning and higher densities as the majority of 1100 East is
already zoned commercial.
The 1100 East alignment also provides a much more fluid future integration into other existing transit
lines, such as the University Trax line. This alignment also provides future connections to the areas of
9th and 9th, Liberty Park, and Trolley Square, all locations with much higher densities, and
possibilities of higher densities.
Streetcar needs to serve as many people as possible and connect as many destinations as possible
in order to be justified and successful, 1100 East provides both of those, while 2100 S does not.
Ben Mates in District 7
April 22, 2013, 2:34 PM
I favor the following route for extending the Sugar House street car line: east from McClelland St. on
Stringham Avenue to 1300 E.; north to 2100 South; east to 2300 E.; north to Foothill Dr.; and north
along Foothill Dr. and Mario Capecchi Dr. to the University of Utah's Huntsman Center.
This route would link passengers to the Sugar House shopping center, Sugar House Park, Highland
High School, businesses along 2100 South, Foothill Village, Research Park, Veterans Hospital, the
Huntsman Center, the University of Utah, and University Hospital. It would avoid the already narrow
and congested heart of Sugar House on 2100 South west of 1300 East, as well as 1100
East/Highland Drive.
Name not shown outside Salt Lake City
April 22, 2013, 12:47 PM
Positively east all the way to Foothill drive, there is an absolute dearth of transportation options for
east-west travel, this is a no-brainer.
Michael Wolfe in District 7
April 22, 2013, 11:50 AM
I walk between 1700 So and 2100 So all the time. It takes just 10 minutes to walk the four blocks.
There is no need for street cars overhead wires etc on 11th East. I love to walk from my home to the
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restaurants shops and pubs. There is no reason why a bus from the streetcar end point to
Westminster would not suffice. Westminster students are already walking from On the draw to
campus. It is just plain stupid to mess up the street. Put it up 21 south a bigger wider and better
option.
Name not shown in District 6
April 22, 2013, 11:31 AM
Please take it North along 1100 East. Westminster students can make good use of this line. The
highland high students already have school buses or parents to provide them transportation. Not so
for the college students and they stand to benefit the most from the line.
Jane W in District 5
April 22, 2013, 10:46 AM
I support better east/west mass transit. Street car and future expansion along 21st south provides the
optimal option for the most amount of people, and therefore less cars on the road. I live off of 11th
east, smack in the middle of a residential area, and already a crowded street. I have plenty of
north/south mass transit options but virtually no east/west options from 9th south to 21st south. Also,
the future expansion route to parleys canyon can provide crucial mass transit to commuters, and
again provide better east/west connections.
Luis Cisneros in District 2
April 22, 2013, 7:41 AM
I feel like this is a good idea because people wont be driveing there cars. It will reduce emmissions in
the city if people take the street car. And it will be better for slc in the long run.
Lynne Olson in District 7
April 21, 2013, 3:50 PM
Having attended a multitude of open houses and public meetings about the streetcar extension, I am
still ambivalent about which alignment is better for the community. But I know that questions regarding
how the streetcar will get through the intersection at 11th & 21st S.,or how it would get from the top of
Wilmington or Simpson up to 21st S. can't be answered without an engineering plan. And that can’t
be provided until funding is available. And federal funding can’t be awarded until the city has approved
a locally preferred alternative.
So waiting for a transit master plan (18 months) and for another alternatives analysis to be done (this
one took 18 months) could mean waiting three years for this project to start up again. By that time,
construction costs will probably have risen, and the developers will be well on their way to completing
their projects.
I’d wager that both alignments will be included on a transit master plan, so it makes sense to get
started with the alternative that has a chance of getting funded right away – 1100 East.
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I am excited to see many of the proposed routes for expansion of the streetcar. I am in support of
both the 1100 East and the 2100 South proposals. Both have strengths and I can see benefits to
both. As it stands now, with completion of phase I, the streetcar will not reach it's full potential to serve
our awesome neighborhood.
I am fortunate to live directly on 1100 E and see this as a very positive way to shift some of the
volume of cars off of this already overloaded street. Something will absolutely need to be done in the
future to decrease traffic and also to lower the speed of traffic through this corridor which also has a
large volume of pedestrian traffic.
I would also like to comment on the very vocal apposition of the project from a particular business in
the neighborhood. This has been very disappointing. To be accosted every time I leave my residence
to sign a petition with misinformation like: "11th east will be closed to all car traffic;" or, "11th east will
be closed for 5 years and will force our businesses to close" is just simply offensive to anyone
educated enough to research the proposals. Please be cautious in interpreting the number of
signatures presented in apposition to the 1100 East proposal because they have been obtained
through the dissemination of very poor information. I understand fear of change, but let reason and
foresight prevail.
Jason Cowan in District 7
April 21, 2013, 12:05 PM
Please vote to continue the streetcar east, not north on 1100 east. The better option is to continue
east to Sugar House Park and Highland High School where there is more room to expand, create less
of a disruption in the busy Sugar House area and better serve the city. The expansion north on 11th
would hamper activity during construction and due to the width of the road would cause car traffic in
the future to be drastically reduced, hurting business. My family and I support the 21st south eastward
expansion not the 11th east north expansion.
Name not shown in District 6
April 21, 2013, 10:02 AM
Please do not dig up 1100 East and convert it for a streetcar line. That section of our beloved Sugar
House is way too congested and busy now. Let’s not add more confusion with a streetcar line. A
streetcar just provides another option for travel. People are still going to be driving through that area in
their cars. The intersection of 1100 East and 2100 South is way too congested, crazy busy, and too
narrow to add a streetcar line to it. Let’s enjoy that historic part of our community and encourage
walking in that area.
If the streetcar has to be extended (oh that I wish it could run parallel to I-80), than let’s run it up 2100
South via Wilmington or Simpson Ave and 1300 East and increase connecting bus routes for use by
folks who need to travel to the University of Utah and Westminster College. Placing the streetcar on
2100 South via 1300 East can help support the retail shopping on 1300 East.
Thank you for listening to my concerns. Please vote NO on the idea of running a streetcar line on
1100 East to 1700 South.
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I believe that the route east along 2100 south makes the most sense, first to Highland High, then on
to the 2100East business area. The connection to the Central Pointe would allow direct access to city
center and to the airport. The streetcar along 1100 east to 1700 south leads to the west side of
Westminster College but not much else. If that route is developed, it should perhaps be the next area
developed. It is an exciting prospect, either way to have a convenient connection to Sugar House.
Name not shown in District 6
April 20, 2013, 3:23 PM
I would love for the streetcar to extend to Sugarhouse Park, Highland High and eventually down 2100
S. to Foothill. I think this would greatly increase access to, and usefulness of, the transit system.
Name not shown outside Salt Lake City
April 19, 2013, 3:33 PM
Wow. How does anyone think that the super narrow section of 1100 E. is a good place to jam a
trolley car system. It is one of the few "walkable" sections of Sugarhouse now, why mess it up with a
trolley car to nowhere? You can't even extend to downtown because 1100 ends at 900 S. and travels
through residential areas to get there. Look at the North Temple experience, small business died
during construction. You will have a trolley car route to nowhere traveling through shuttered
businesses.
Why not connect the Sugarhouse business district to Westminster on 13th or up to the Park? Future
exspansion is then possible East and South to the Foothill area, mouth of Parley's for public transport
up the canyon for recreation, or even South towards the University, Imigration Hogle Zoo, This is The
Place, etc. And in the mean time the City is cutting budgets for core services. Wow again.
Maggie Shaw in District 7
April 19, 2013, 10:55 AM
Whew.. this has been a tough choice. I can see arguments for and against the 11th East alignment
and the 21st South alignment. I also have seen and heard a tremendous amount of misinformation
being put forth by certain individuals.... issues concerning the construction taking two years, trolley
bells will keep residents up at night and other untruths. Change is always hard...but a streetcar
system is a change for the better...SO please ignore the lies, look at the ridership numbers and the
cost...I want this to work... I want an east side loop to Trax.. either 4th south or Foothill.. or better yet
both! I also want a comprehensive transportation plan for the CITY before more streetcar alignments
are chosen. But a decision will be made now, and I would like to be part of that choice... I have gone
back and forth on this issue... but in the end.. I say put it down 11th East. I believe that will provide the
greatest ridership and that neighborhood is a better choice for the streetcar.... Now get a plan for the
rest of the project.
Name not shown outside Salt Lake City
April 19, 2013, 8:57 AM
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Sugar House Streetcar proposal
Where would you like the Sugar House Streetcar to take you?
I am very happy that there will be a street car in the Sugar House area, and I am very pleased with
the route that is being proposed. I believe that a streetcar is a great way to promote public
transportation and will be riding it often.
Anders Hart in District 5
April 18, 2013, 11:48 PM
The new streetcar line should run from its current terminal point along 2100 South to 1700 East. This
extension would carry riders directly to Sugarhouse Park and all of the businesses lining 2100 South,
including those in the Hidden Hollow area. Also, this route would allow the streetcar line to be
eventually extended along 1300 East past Westminster College and even all the way to the Trax line
on 500 South, thereby creating a mass transit loop.
Name not shown in District 5
April 18, 2013, 4:43 PM
The streetcar would be most useful if it extended north, through the 9th & 9th neighborhood, to
connect with TRAX at 400 South. However, running it up 11th East sounds like a nightmare. Why not
run it north on 700 East to connect with TRAX on 400 South?
Those who argue that a streetcar running north is unnecessary because of existing bus routes are
misguided. For better or worse, people will ride a streetcar who wouldn't consider riding a bus.
Name not shown in District 7
April 18, 2013, 12:39 PM
I adamantly oppose the streetcar line going on 11th East. I live right on 11th East. There is no need a UTA bus has a route down 11th East, and 13th East as well, if the plan is to accommodate
Westminster students. I am very concerned about how you'd find room to stuff a streetcar on a fairly
narrow road along with 2 lanes of traffic, a bike lane, and parking. Congestion is bad enough as it is,
and the area of 11th East being considered is more residential than commercial.
Head up to Sugarhouse Park, or the high school, or somewhere else that's actually practical.
Name not shown in District 5
April 18, 2013, 10:31 AM
The 'streetcar' is just a Trax car that will SHARE a lane with vehicular traffic on an existing public
street. It is NOT a separate lane for the streetcar exclusively.
The route already under construction makes sense for three reasons: the old railway line already
existed and was a perfect unused space, the costs were covered by a federal grant, and the Trax cars
are donated from West Valley City. It also makes sense to extend the line just east to Highland Drive
and make use of the vacant Deseret Industries property. This could become a hub to join to regular
UTA service, running in any and all directions, north on 1100 East, east on Simpson, Wilmington or
2100 South, etc. .
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Sugar House Streetcar proposal
Where would you like the Sugar House Streetcar to take you?
There is just nothing that the streetcar would provide that bus routes cannot do right now with very
little cost involved. If student ridership is so important, why not set up a bus route on 1100 East to
see what the ridership would be? The Streetcar cannot run at Trax speed on this established road,
and would stop at intersections and passenger stops exactly like a bus. This would have the same
impact on the traffic lanes as adding more frequent bus service.
Why not try an easy test of this before any plans or construction are started?
I for myself have NO plans whatsoever to use any of this as it just does not suit my needs. The
ridership should be confirmed before tax dollars pay for anything further.
Name not shown in District 5
April 17, 2013, 9:53 PM
I support the northward extension along 1100 E only if there is the full intent of extending that line
further northward through 9th & 9th an on to 4th South. Creating such a loop, and other loops as
things expand further, will greatly increase the function & use of mass transit. It will pass through
areas where people are likely to make use of it. To have Phase 2 go eastward will greatly disrupt
vehicle traffic, is a non-pedestrian friendly route, and won't see nearly as much ridership. An eastward
route might may more sense on 13th south to connect to Emigration Market, the Foothill Shopping
center, and the Grade Schools near 13th south. Then possibly take it westward on 13th/California
Ave as someone previously mentioned. I’d be attending many more Bees games if it went that way.
I understand the concern people have about construction. The building construction at the corner of
21 S & 11 E has already made it a mess. That isn’t even road related construction. I can understand
how business owners in that area don’t want to deal with another year or two of construction.
However, if business owners can not see the long term benefits of such an addition they are very
short sighted. The business owners at North Temple for the Airport line had to deal with some pain,
but they will now be reaping the benefits. Can you imagine the business increase that Sugarhouse
businesses will see from Westminster students (let alone neighborhood residents) stopping in
Sugarhouse on their way to & from the college. I don’t understand how the Coffee shop can be
against this, so many students will hop off the street car in the morning, grab a coffee, hop back on, &
head to school. Students will head into Sugarhouse for lunch, dinner, shopping, etc. when it is a
simple streetcar ride away.
I’m talking a lot about students, since that’s all the extension to 17th south really serves. It needs to
go north the 4th south trax line to truly benefit the community as a whole. The Phase 1 Streetcar line
made little sense to me, but to create the loop as described improves the Streetcar’s value 10 times.
Name not shown in District 2
April 17, 2013, 9:14 PM
I would love to see the streetcar construction follow the recommended plan, as it would both increase
and streamline human traffic into and out of Sugarhouse.
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Sugar House Streetcar proposal
Where would you like the Sugar House Streetcar to take you?
1100 East is a better option because it serves more people. The problem with rail transit in the City is
that it connects major destinations, but does not currently provide service for most residents of the
City. A streetcar along 1100 East connects more people and starts to be about moving the residents
of SLC and not about triggering development.
Robert A Jones in District 7
April 17, 2013, 12:08 PM
Phase 2 of the street car route should go up 11th East to Westminster. This route has the greatest
chance of gaining more riders than the less dense area east on 2100 South.
Mark Koopman in District 7
April 16, 2013, 5:04 PM
I live on 1100 East within the proposed Phase II construction area, and although I am certain it would
be a serious inconvenience during the construction, I must endorse the 1100 East option. I feel,
though, that everything possible must be done to minimize the impact on our small locally owned
businesses during this effort!
It would be more expeditious and logical, however, to continue the Phase II work beyond 1700 South
during Phase II rather than making the one streetcar line a 3 or 4 phase project. The line should
continue north to 900 South, take a left for two blocks, passing through 9th and 9th and take a right on
900 East. The obvious terminus is the TRAX station at 400 South and 900 East.
This suggestion embraces three major benefits: 1) it links both ends of the streetcar line to the TRAX
network (moving toward a much more flexible system of greater utility), 2) includes streetcar access to
both Sugar House and the 9th and 9th, and 3) removes the obstacle of iterative funding struggles.
We must, as a community, support mass transit and use it. Have so many people forgotten the
inversions of January already? Our society must come to terms with transportation systems that run
cleaner than automobiles if we want our city to be vibrant and productive for future decades and
generations.
Name not shown in District 7
April 16, 2013, 4:25 PM
I'm in support of the streetcar plan that would bring it north on 1100 east . A lot of people have
already said this but there are so many business along 1100 east that it would be a great way to bring
new people to these businesses. There are a lot of great things happening in Sugar House and on
1100 east and I think it would be great to support these efforts. It would also be great to have a way
to connect Sugar House and the 9th and 9th businesses. I know the businesses on 1100 east have
concerns about "construction" but I haven't heard anything about the street car shutting down 11th
and I don't think it will have the dramatic impact during the construction phase that's been mentioned
in some of these posts. Longer term it brings more new people to the area which supports local
commerce.
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Sugar House Streetcar proposal
Where would you like the Sugar House Streetcar to take you?
I think that the streetcar is a great option to bring out the community Salt Lake City so desperately
needs. The city as a whole could use a neighborhood(Sugar House/ 9th and 9th) that has some
character, shops, stores, bars, restaurants, and people. I think that 1300 east would be a better
option for the streetcar. 1300 east is wider, goes directly to the University, passes by Sugar House
Park, and the Streetcar could be located in one of the three lanes that heads north to the University
and Westminster College. There is also enough parking within the Shop-Ko parking lot for UTA to set
up a park and ride for University, hospital, and Westminster employees to prevent the horrendous
traffic up and down 1300 east during rush hour. That parking lot sits empty most of the day, let's use
our resources. By extending the service up to the junction of 2100 south and 1300 east where are
also setting ourselves up for a Trax line directly up to Parley's Canyon. As a city we need to think big
picture. A streetcar up 1100 east that stops at 1700 south is a waste of money. The streetcar needs
to loop back into existing Trax lines and be useful for the long term.
Mitra Acharya outside Salt Lake City
April 16, 2013, 2:26 PM
In lieu of "streetcar"plan;I'm very supportive of construct the along the Westminster college,which
evidently help the faculty,and Student at Westminster to efficient access for them without walking,and
crossing the street.For crossing street which intermittently stop the commuter traffic in 1300 east in
heavily traffic.I think the new idea of street car along the Westminster college will result in more riders
then the commuter traffic, efficient and easy access to all the cooperative business in sugar house
and refining in our air quality.
Stephen Hertz in District 6
April 16, 2013, 3:25 AM
if a streetcar goes anywhere else it should go along 2100 south to 1500 East it should not go to
Highland Drive at all nothing is on that street right now worth for it to be on
Michaela Duong outside Salt Lake City
April 15, 2013, 9:06 PM
As a supporter of local businesses, I'm not quite sure that I would want the Sugar House Streetcar to
even be built... Just recently I went to a little local coffee shop called Sugar House Coffee located on
1100 East 2011 South, where the owner and employees were quite concerned with this new addition
to the city. They stated that with the construction of the streetcar, theirs and the entire street's
businesses would be shut down for at least two years! Along with random off and on construction
afterwards.This would result in the loss of an entire community if the Sugar House Streetcar would be
produced. As they asked me to sign their petition for the cause, which I full heartily did, I could see
their fright for their coffee shop, the stores around them, and the Sugar House area as well. I ask that
the concern and consideration be raised for the residence and people who inhabit or run businesses
within Sugar House. Thank you.
Name not shown in District 7
April 15, 2013, 4:46 PM
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Sugar House Streetcar proposal
Where would you like the Sugar House Streetcar to take you?
It seems that most comments in favor of the 1100 East extension come from Westminster students.
Although this route might be the most convenient option for them, I think they should not be
considered "locals" for the purposes of the "Local Preferred Option". Rather, those of us who live and
work in Sugar House and will be affected by this decision for decades to come should have more
heavily weighted input.
I think 1100 East is a poor choice. The street is narrow and is already heavily congested. The trolley
as well as new development and the proposed "road diet" on Highland drive will only compound the
problem. The noise and ground vibration for those who live in the immediate neighborhood are also
concerns, as is the use of side streets adjacent to the route for parking. And finally, the end of the line
at 1700 South is in area of few businesses and more single family residences as compared to the
other options.
It makes more sense to route the trolley through existing business areas and east along 21st South.
Residents won't be as directly impacted, businesses would profit and the line would serve
Sugarhouse Park and Highland High. Westminster students would only have to walk 3 blocks to the
trolley stops rather than 2 as in the 1100 East option.
Name not shown in District 6
April 15, 2013, 12:41 PM
In lieu of creating "a streetcar to nowhere..." we as a community and a city need to decide on a route
of the Sugarhouse streetcar that will maximize the greatest number of riders, minimize the number of
commuter cars on the road in the heaviest traffic areas, that serves multiple
commercial/entertainment destinations and tie into the existing or future mass transit infrastructure.
Mass transit availability to the East Bench is sorely inadequate and the commuter traffic on Foothill
Blvd is ever burgeoning. I support creating a "LOOP" extending the Sugarhouse streetcar to
Sugarhouse Park and onto 2100 South to Highland High, with eventual extension to Foothill Blvd that
intersects with a mass transit system running along Foothill Blvd that runs from the suburbs to the
University Trax station. This configuration requires that UTA scheduling be optimized to service the
greatest number of riders in all directions at key times of the day. In this way, a major East/West
service route is established that interconnects to existing infrastructure that services the greatest car
traffic number and availability to multiple locations of diverse commercial businesses
Name not shown in District 6
April 15, 2013, 12:19 PM
I suggest that the route the street car takes is along 1100 East. Yes, that is a narrow street, but we
can make it work. 1100 East is a great street to put the street car on because it allows access to
many businesses along that street, Westminster just east of the street, and sugarhouse shopping and
living area. I think it is the best option.
Name not shown in District 5
April 15, 2013, 10:52 AM
I'm going to be honest here:
I'm not sure I care which direction the street car goes because it will get used with any alignment
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Sugar House Streetcar proposal
Where would you like the Sugar House Streetcar to take you?
that's chosen. Why can't we plan for both and ask for a Bond proposal to fund both lines?
And cablecars in the avenues? And a streetcar down 1300 South that connects California Avenue to
Liberty Park, the Ball Park and the residents on the east and west sides?
We need more of this not less, and whichever alignment will prove to people we need more of this rail
development is my preferred option.
Name not shown in District 5
April 15, 2013, 10:50 AM
As a faculty member at Westminster, I would LOVE to see the line come up 11th East. It would
greatly alleviate the traffic congestion immediately around the school, as it would provide a convenient
mode of transport for many individuals who now drive and attempt to park in surrounding
neighborhoods. In addition, it would further incorporate Westminster into the Sugarhouse community.
Name not shown outside Salt Lake City
April 15, 2013, 10:36 AM
As an alumna of Westminster College, I would have benefited from easily accessible public
transportation closer to campus. The availability of the street car would better serve students who
regularly utilize public transportation by enabling them to take more advantage of the resources of
the college campus, e.g. the late library hours during finals, computer lab help, etc. Some bus routes
only run until mid-evening, which makes commuting to and from campus difficult for students who live
further away.
I believe the amount of time and money spent implementing this form of public transportation would
be worthwhile for Westminster and the larger community.
Sarah Pike in District 6
April 15, 2013, 9:20 AM
Public transportation is important to Westminster students! Please take the SH Streetcar to
Westminster!
Name not shown in District 7
April 15, 2013, 8:39 AM
I suggest the 21st south route for extension.
I do not like the 11th east option because that street is already narrow.
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Sugar House Streetcar proposal
Where would you like the Sugar House Streetcar to take you?
What a waste of resources. This project will only further disrupt the already terrible traffic on 1100
East & 2100 South. Local businesses will suffer during construction and afterward as well. Potential
customers will simply drive there cars to a big box store where they can find ample parking and easy
access.
Jessica Bowen in District 7
April 13, 2013, 9:09 PM
As a student at Westminster College, I can guarantee that if the Sugar House Streetcar ran along the
1100 E route, the students here would use it with incredible frequency! Right now, students already
spend a great deal of time in the shopping/dining areas of Sugar House, and in the warmer months,
we spend lots of time at Sugar House Park as well!
Beyond the Sugar House area, this would give Westminster students a much-needed transportation
resource to come back from downtown (the current modes of public transportation are rather
inconvenient, and this would help a lot!)
Having this streetcar on 1100 E would not only make public transportation simpler and faster, it would
be extremely valuable in connecting Westminster students with the community of Sugar House and
Salt Lake City.
Name not shown in District 5
April 13, 2013, 6:13 PM
I think it is essential to consider the growth of the community as a whole. Westminster College is wellknown for producing world-class leaders in every field imaginable, for giving back to the community,
and for being the "expensive" choice in Utah. I would like to clarify that as a Utahan, I attended
Westminster on scholarship and would have loved to have the opportunity to have easier access to
the school/community. There are several students who live in the Southern and Northern end of the
valley who are practically required to drive to school each and every day because the current routes
for UTA are not easily accessible and are at terribly inconvenient times. I would like to urge the
community to consider bringing the Sugar House Streetcar closer to a world class college rather than
further east. I am not saying it wouldn't be nice to have both, but I cannot see how this wouldn't be the
best partnership between UTA, the city, and Westminster College to open more opportunities for
commuter students, for residential students without cars, and for the environment as a whole.
Jeff Collins in District 6
April 13, 2013, 11:38 AM
I would like to point out that the street car would ride in the same lane as traffic, so the width of 1100
East is not as much of an issue as you might think. The route 1100 East also runs through a much
more densely populated area and passes by Westminster College, which would give it a lot more
ridership, especially since Westminster brings in many out-of-state students that do not own cars. I
think the 1100 East route will be much more beneficial to our neighborhood.
Brandon Lloyd in District 5
April 13, 2013, 11:29 AM
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Sugar House Streetcar proposal
Where would you like the Sugar House Streetcar to take you?
Sugar House is growing, but in which direction?
The city’s streetcar project is a vital component to the growth of Sugar House. Phase I of the project
will directly connect Sugar House to the TRAX Central Pointe Station, but future phases could
possibly unite this eclectic yet energetic borough of Salt Lake City to much more.
Mayor Ralph Becker’s administration, many community members, and many Westminster College
students all agree that continuing the Sugar House Streetcar down 1100 East is the best option for
the community.
Continuing the streetcar down 1100 East allows for growth and both short-term and long-term
benefits that will last well into the future. The streetcar could one day travel north to connect to the 9th
& 9th business district, go passed Trolley Square, and then go onto 4th South and downtown or the
“U” all while creating foot traffic for businesses along the way.
The 1100 East proposal has already been dubbed “Purple Line SLC” by all of us students at
Westminster who would love to see an easier and greener way to get to the jobs and shopping in the
center of Salt Lake. Continuing the streetcar down 1100 East is the most economical way to do that.
Plus it just makes sense.
There has been misinformation that the Streetcar would shut down businesses along 1100 East for up
to a year due to the construction like what happened with TRAX downtown. However, this isn’t a
TRAX line and this certainly isn’t downtown.
Streetcars can be built in 1-2 weeks per block and then move to the next section. Construction time is
quick and city officials are willing to work with businesses to assure that the street is not fully shut
down and that there is minimal impact.
Small and unique businesses are what make Sugar House such a wonderful place to live, work, and
play, and no one wants that to go away. Minor and short-term construction down 1100 East will bring
way to substantial and long-term benefits to both residents and business owners.
Some want to continue the streetcar up 2100 South, but who will you be reaching? High school
students with little to no money to spend that have just gotten their drivers licenses and want to drive.
Not to mention all of the rezoning because nearly every house along 2100 South is residential.
Sugar House Park may seem like a nice place to take the streetcar, but when The Draw under 1300
East is complete it will connect the Parley’s Trail and allow for easy biking and walking between the
heart of Sugar House and Sugar House Park.
A few would like to see the streetcar move up Wilmington or Simpson avenues, but then where will it
go? Onto 1300 East or into Sugar House Park? Would it not just be easier to walk the one block east
to 13th? There are no future possibilities if the city council chooses this route.
When you look at the facts, continuing the Sugar House Streetcar down 1100 East and then beyond
is the best option for Sugar House and its many residents.
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Sugar House Streetcar proposal
Where would you like the Sugar House Streetcar to take you?
It adds more to the economic growth of Sugar House and the surrounding areas while helping to keep
fewer cars on the road and our air a little cleaner. Choosing 1100 East as the place to continue the
Sugar House Streetcar will keep businesses growing and help keep the skies blue.
Help make Purple Line SLC down 1100 East a reality by joining me at the Sugar House Streetcar
Public Hearing on April 23 at 7 PM in the City and County Building. Make Sugar House a better place
by coming out in support, and don’t forget to wear your purple!
Name not shown in District 1
April 12, 2013, 9:31 PM
I think that if they add more tracks or streetcars on 1100 East and 1700 south, it will create more and
more traffic. 2100 South is already good as it is, but I also think that extending it would be good too,
because that way my sister could take the tracks to highland instead of getting dropped off there. This
would save money and gas for us.
Name not shown in District 7
April 12, 2013, 5:21 PM
I understand at upcoming city council meetings that there will be talk about providing a bike/ walking
lane and I honestly feel that putting the Street car on 11th east going only 4 blocks north is counter
intuitive to that idea of exercise. I live on 10th east so I know first hand how extremely crazy 11th east
gets! It's already ridiculous and adding a street car there would just be plain dangerous. That street is
so narrow and I could see lots of accidents happening! Honestly, I would recommend not putting an
extension on that street car already in place. Very unnecessary. There is no need to cause even more
traffic in the sugar house area. Why not just leave the trax stop where it's already planed to stop at
and leave it at that. All options are not worth the extra traffic to the intersections where it is already
way to crowded. One more thing, the route option on this map being proposed are only a matter of 4
blocks. Well
within walking distance and not worth the extra tax expenses.
Name not shown in District 5
April 12, 2013, 10:09 AM
Of the two proposed options for the track expansion, I think expanding the line along 2100 South is
the best choice. 1100 East is far too narrow as it is now and the traffic that moves through there is so
great, to make it less accessible would be a mistake. 2100 South is a well-traveled road and it's a
fairly large road, so laying down tracks there would be easy and would probably take away some of
the congestion. It's a great central point in Sugar House, especially if you work in that area or are a
student who attends one of the nearby schools: East, Highland, Westminster. 2100 South is by far the
best option.
Name not shown in District 6
April 11, 2013, 3:26 PM
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Sugar House Streetcar proposal
Where would you like the Sugar House Streetcar to take you?
I would like it to go east on 2100 South. Our office is on 2100 south and getting more people east
and close to the park would be a huge asset to the city. The park is so beautiful and getting access to
it by rail would be huge. 1100 east is not wide enough and 2100 has the room.
Name not shown in District 5
April 11, 2013, 11:52 AM
Please run the streetcar near Westminster College! It would mean a lot to all of our students and
faculty members, because as of now environmentally friendly and reliable public transportation is
challenging for us to come across.
Greg Goldberg in District 7
April 10, 2013, 9:44 PM
I agree with those who say there is no room left on 1100 East, north of 2100 South, to even drive
easily, let alone add a streetcar there. Adding a section to go north to the monument, along that
portion of Highland Drive, is tight enough, the same as if going north on 1100 East. I also agree with
others about first finding out how successful the current Sugar House streetcar plan will be with its
ridership. I'm not as familiar as others regarding an east bound line along 2100 South.
Scott Kisling in District 7
April 9, 2013, 1:35 PM
Thank you for the opportunity to speak out.
Though I am all for quick progress when it comes to public transportation, I think we need to slow this
train down until we know better how a continuation of the Sugar House Streetcar line will fit into a
City-wide plan.
The Wasatch Front Regional Council's transportation map, adopted only two years ago, shows
enhanced bus service along Foothill Drive and up Parleys Canyon toward Park City, but I believe we'll
need rail transportation in both areas long before 2040, like we had a hundred years ago. Growth in
Summit and the southern part of Salt Lake County continues to put pressure on an already overcapacity Foothill Drive and the most likely Park City corridor would require only one bridge to cross I80 if we act there reasonably soon, keeping costs manageable. It appears that our air quality is
deteriorating faster than projected and I don't expect state legislative action that would allow us to
combat the problem with tighter standards anytime soon, so the fastest way to improve our air quality
(and stop losing jobs to states with cleaner air) is to build rail eastward.
That, of course, favors the continuation of the Sugar House streetcar east along 2100 South before
expanding north, though both will eventually be needed. A line along 2100 South would boost
development in the corridor between 20th East to the City limits; an area prime for redevelopment but
which is not growing fast enough in population to support it without a transportation influx.
Sincerely,
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Sugar House Streetcar proposal
Where would you like the Sugar House Streetcar to take you?
Scott Kisling
Leslie Brown in District 6
April 9, 2013, 11:20 AM
I'm a Westminster Student, and it would mean a lot to our students to bring the Sugar House
Streetcar as close to Westminster's campus as possible. We are highly conscious of our
environmental impact, and it's bizarre and frustrating how hard it is for us to rely on public
transportation. What is potentially most frustrating is getting downtown, which is particularly important
for internships among students, and taking this line further north on eleventh seems like the natural
second step. This would mean a HUGE impact for us. PLEASE BRING THE CAR CLOSE TO OUR
CAMPUS!
Name not shown in District 7
April 9, 2013, 10:55 AM
I am in a situation much like the student below me. I am also an out-of-state Westminster student, and
though I do have a car, I try to use TRAX as much as possible (if members of the community were
unaware, Westminster students get free, unlimited TRAX use with tuition). I personally think that the
streetcar should run on 11th east. With new Sugarhouse development coming at a rapid pace, I think
that it will only serve residents more effectively. However, I propose that a new study be conducted on
traffic in that area (2100 S & 1100 E), because that could be a huge deterrent. There is a great deal
of research to be conducted here before anything gets put into place. However, if done correctly, the
final plans will lead to Sugar House and all of Salt Lake City becoming a cohesive unit and an easy,
efficient resource for residents and tourists.
Name not shown in District 7
April 9, 2013, 9:54 AM
I would really like for the Streetcar to go near Westminster College.
I know many students and faculty who would use the Streetcar and would be most appreciative of the
route going near our college.
I would love to be able to take visitors on the streetcar as I show them Salt Lake City (I am from outof-state and have many visitors come to see me and my school).
Also, with a route that goes farther east on 2100 south, many people would gain access to great
places like the Sugar House movie theater, Sugar House Coffee, Central Book Exchange, the Soup
Kitchen, Barnes and Noble, Michael's, Nordstrom Rack, Olive Garden, and more.
Not to mention the gained access to the beautiful campus of Westminster College and the gorgeous
Sugar House Park!
I think it would be a terrible mistake to have the Streetcar route miss out on this essential area of
Sugar House!
Name not shown in District 5
April 6, 2013, 9:08 PM
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Sugar House Streetcar proposal
Where would you like the Sugar House Streetcar to take you?
Up to 1100 E/ Highland Dr. North to 2100 S up 2100 S to 1500 E turn left at 1500 east keep going
until 900 S. Turn right at 900 S. Turn left at Guardsman way. North to the U.
Now that makes sense! (Won't happen).
Chuck Krivanek in District 7
April 6, 2013, 8:54 PM
I will ride this street car to connect to other routes. I was just discussing with my boys today that I will
be able to take this straight to the airport once it is operational. To me, that is a huge part of why I live
in Sugarhouse, Utah. The more we connect, the better we can travel. As someone has mentioned,
with the new development in Sugarhouse, congestion will (who would have thunk?) become an issue.
The more options people have for transportation to and from, the better. Long-term? Free Zones like
downtown, where people park at one UTA station and can travel free into the area. And
spend lots of money. Maybe businesses need to fully understand the impact.
Douglas MacLean in District 6
April 6, 2013, 6:56 PM
I believe the streetcar route should be eastbound. The 11th East option is far to narrow and the
congestion at the monument shows the intersection is already failing. I would have it go at least to
21st East in the second phase
Name not shown in District 6
April 5, 2013, 7:55 PM
I am completely against extending the route in any direction. Removing traffic lanes will make a bad
situation untenable. Already, 21 South/13 East and 21 South/11 East intersections are in near
gridlock. This situation can only worsen with the population density added when the Sugar House
"hole" construction is completed. I live off 19 East and need to be able to drive to the Sprague library
and Smith's and Fiddler's. I cannot afford the high cost of TRAX and do not want to lug books or
heavy groceries several blocks from a TRAX line to my house. Like the majority of Sugar House
residents, I need to DRIVE in my neighborhood to shop and dine. While a streetcar line may help
those going to and from work or school, it will be a nightmare for the majority of Sugar House
residents.
Name not shown outside Salt Lake City
April 5, 2013, 4:25 PM
As a native Utahn and Westminster College student, I believe the Streetcar needs to travel along
1100 east. A significant group of Sugar House community members--including students--do not have
access to cars. The recommended 1100 east Streetcar would connect community members to many
Sugar House shopping areas, and eventually connect to the 9th and 9th area as well as Downtown.
The 1100 east route is the obvious choice. I urge the community to see the value this line would
bring to Sugar House. Thank you.
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Where would you like the Sugar House Streetcar to take you?
I don't think that any local, state, federal funds and/or energy should be expended on future planning
until the current basic trolley route has been in operation for a test-run period and it's viability is
determined.
Things like speed of travel, ridership, true cost of maintenance & operations (not just planning
estimates), impacts on major thoroughfare traffic like State St. & 700E road crossings need to be
determined before any expansion plans & routes are formalized.
I think it's too early to be talking 5-10-15 year expansion plans until we're sure we have an effective
system to build on.
Chad Mullins outside Salt Lake City
April 4, 2013, 12:31 PM
I agree with the comments supporting the line going east since that is the area most under served by
public transit. However, I also think that a study is needed to determine the route that would best
serve the needs of the east side and the University of Utah. The University is the largest traffic
generator and adds to the congestion on Foothill Boulevard. It is important to develop a
transportation plan that will alleviate congestion on Foothill and provide more transit and alternative
transportation choices to serve the University campus.
Jacquie Bernard in District 5
April 4, 2013, 12:26 PM
I think the streetcar should go North, along 1100 East in order to connect with the 9th and 9th
neighborhood and TRAX on 400 South. However, it makes no sense at all to build it half-way,
stopping at 1700 South. Very few riders will want to take a streetcar halfway to their eventual
destination and then, what? Look for a bus? We should wait until we have enough funds to complete
the route before extending TRAX in either direction.
Name not shown in District 7
April 3, 2013, 9:29 PM
I think that Charlie Luke's plan for an easterly extension from Sugar House makes the most sense. I
live in Sugar House and daily experience the congestion found at the very narrow intersection of 2100
South and 1100 East and cannot imagine that adding a streetcar along 1100 East to 1700 South
would improve the situation. Both Highland High and Westminster students would be well served by
an eastbound line from Sugar House, preferably one that eventually connects to Foothill (another
extremely busy commuter avenue) and then moves north to the University.
Sabrina Scott in District 5
April 3, 2013, 9:04 PM
Of course you know that we must connect SHBD to 9th&9th and eventually on to the 4th South Trax
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Where would you like the Sugar House Streetcar to take you?
line. The north route begins that process in earnest. I agree with other commenters who stated the
greater potential immediate benefit of the 2100 So line (east) up/down the hill. Many of us are simply
waiting on something better in the way of public transit to finally become habitual users. Easy
multimodal transitions are key.
Both of these routes should be planned to their logical and most efficient outcomes. I would
personally enjoy using the north line more but I believe the east line shows a more immediate need
and greater potential benefit in the near term.
Best wishes!
Richard Middleton in District 3
April 3, 2013, 7:13 PM
This looks like another Beckerism. How did we get to the point of building a streetcar line without any
clear understanding of where it would go? Are slow street cars, stopping frequently in shopping
areas, a viable option for commuting? Even if the intention is to make it prohibitively difficult to use a
car in the Sugarhouse area, is there really a market for multi-mode travel (especially after factoring in
peripheral parking costs in addition to transit fares)? Will the future direction of this project really
depend in any way on inputs from a relatively few citizens - who don't have a stake in its financial
viability? These questions should have been asked ahead of the consultants' study, and reflected
when framing the study terms of reference. Inviting public inputs at this late stage suggests that the
process is essentially a sham. Either that, or Becker really doesn't know why he built the first bit, and
now is trying to get someone to provide justification.
Becky Petersen outside Salt Lake City
April 3, 2013, 5:29 PM
I agree with R. Barth. Have the streetcar run up 21st South to Foothill and then connect to the
University of Utah. The East side has few options to use the mass transit that they pay higher
property tax rates to provide and the rest of the city enjoys.
Name not shown in District 6
April 3, 2013, 4:12 PM
As a former Westminster student and resident of the area close to the proposed 1100 East/1700
South route, and a current resident to the East bench of the city, I can see the benefits of both lines.
Yet, I have to side with Charlie Luke's feelings regarding the 2100 South route. http://us1.campaignarchive2.com/?u=ecf0d6a5933b3483c6020dbe6&id=4d8d9bb76b&e=13dda9d5e5
The East side it tragically undeserved in public transit and this would be a welcome addition to the
neighborhood. I know many of my neighbors, myself included, who would love to choose to be more
green in how we move about the city, but the resources just aren't there. Most notably, in regards to
biking and walking, it's simply just hard to get up the the hill. An east running street car would benefit
many people who would like to move about the city by bicycle but are intimidated by the upward
journey home. From personal experience those that live below the fault line are more prone to journey
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Where would you like the Sugar House Streetcar to take you?
about the city on foot or bike because it's simply easier. The walk/bike ride into Sugar House from
1700 South is hardly a stretch for many people, but getting yourself home to 1700 East can be quite a
task. The proposed eastward routes mentioned in Luke's statement would better serve a population
of the city ready and willing to make the choice to leave their cars at home.
Name not shown in District 5
April 3, 2013, 9:08 AM
I believe the most practical extension would be (eventually) to the University of Utah, creating a loop
around the city (between TRAX and the streetcar). Connecting downtown to Sugarhouse and both
Westminster College and the "U" would create a viable transportation alternative for many.
Also, taking the line along 1100 East would bring riders close to the 9th & 9th Business District, and
help build the "Canal Business District" along 1100 East.
Hugh Johnson in District 7
April 3, 2013, 8:02 AM
There are only 2 things that TRAXX and the Sugarhouse Streetcar bring to the area where they are
located: CRIME AND DEATH. How many fatalities do we have to have every year before Mayor
Becker and the City Council realize that the TRAXX system is a failure? Auto burglaries, robberies,
assaults are rampant at all park and ride lots and TRAXX stations. UTA even has it's own police
force, but can't seem to do anything about crimes committed on their property. Now criminals and
thieves can steal car stereos at central point station, then take the Sugarhouse Streetcar east and
break into more cars there., GREAT IDEA!
Please stop destroying Sugarhouse! If you want a streetcar have it run down 3rd avenue or up I
street, so you can experience years of inconvenience to your travels, the destruction of historic
buildings and the crime and graffiti which follow - DESTROY YOUR OWN NEIGHBORHOOD NOT
MINE!!!
Scott Christensen in District 2
April 3, 2013, 7:25 AM
I have to agree with those who have negative comments towards the Street Car project. This is a big
goose egg idea. Street Cars and Trolleys were removed for a reason. Maybe those in charge should
look through the records and remember why they were removed. Trax/street car in general cost more
than they are worth. It costs hundreds of dollars worth of electricity every trip it will make from the
main line up through Sugar House. It will never pay for itself. I'm no environmentalist either. There are
several Coal fired power plants in Utah belching out tons of pollutants to keep electricity coming to
these toys. This is what happens when liberal ideas meet money (real or perceived). Stop this project
now before more money is wasted. It will never have enough ridership to pay for it. Your ticket to ride
will cost you a small fortune very soon. Trax already keeps going up. I cannot justify the cost anymore.
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Sugar House Streetcar proposal
Where would you like the Sugar House Streetcar to take you?
I would like to see a transportation system that has planning before they build and later consider
effects and benefits.
The largest traffic draw in West Valley City is the Community College and the train doesn't go there.
The majority of people don't ride mass transportation to shop . The density of housing along the
Sugarhouse route is low and zoning near will not see density ever (except Main St-State St) And the
system is ugly, Red, White and Blue graphic outside and Blue and Red interiors, Who is that
supposed to appeal to?
I would like to see the demographics and masterplan for the routes first.
Robert Barth in District 4
April 2, 2013, 10:04 PM
I am in favor of the streetcar route running east on 21st South, eventually to Parley's Way and Foothill.
This route would serve many more neighborhoods and run directly in front of several new high-density
developments that are in progress now. TRAX might someday run along Foothill and out Wasatch
Blvd to Cottonwood heights and "upper Sandy" and the streetcar would serve as an ideal feeder line.
Westminster would not be directly served but it would only be about a 4 block walk away along 13th
East.
Name not shown in District 7
April 2, 2013, 9:59 PM
Go north on 1100E, this would feed current businesses along 1100 and develop new ones. Would
eventually connect to 9th/9th and the U trax line. For all the fears about traffic congestion...think of
famous, well attracted sites in other cities. Seattle Pike's Market, Times Square NYC, San Diego
Gaslamp District. They are crowded and not easy to drive through but they are wonderful places that
people pay big $ to live near. If you want less congestion then go move to a freeway onramp.
Michael Christensen in District 1
April 2, 2013, 5:43 PM
I like both scenarios, but I prefer the northern route, as I would like priority given to connecting Sugar
House, Westminster College, and the University of Utah.
However, I would really like for Salt Lake City to develop a comprehensive plan for a future city-wide
streetcar system. Portland completed their plan in 2009. It's a great example for Salt Lake City to
follow and can be downloaded here:
http://www.portlandoregon.gov/transportation/article/321180 (12 mb PDF)
Richard Madsen in District 7
April 2, 2013, 5:34 PM
You should have figuerd that out befor you started. Spend more money the tax payers have some
left.
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Sugar House Streetcar proposal
Where would you like the Sugar House Streetcar to take you?
I like the idea of going East on 2100 South and eventually to Foohill Blvd. to connect to Trax at the U
of U.
Thomas Tischner in District 5
April 2, 2013, 4:27 PM
The Mayor and the entire council should pack up and move to NYC or San Francisco where they
would feel right at home and be out our hair. They are creating a city so gridlocked as to be
completely disfunctional while at the same time costing residents more and more time and money.
This whole streetcar concept is ludicrous at best and most likely be a massive disaster.
Jody Rosenblatt in District 4
April 2, 2013, 3:44 PM
Me likey. I think that Sugar House currently isn't linked in as well with the rest of the downtown and
what prevents me from going out southward more often is getting in the car. I avoid cars like the
plague and think we should all given how horrid and dangerous the air has been of late. Big thumbs
up for this idea.
Name not shown in District 7
April 2, 2013, 2:36 PM
I agree with the statement that called this Streetcar named desire (by the administration and a few
self-appointed mass transit elitists) a joke.
It is costing us a fortune and will continue to do so in perpetuity.
The mayor's push to put a bicycle in every yard for every person is going to make it impossible for
businesses in the SH area to conduct business by pushing away those who prefer to drive to a
business. Those people will shop elsewhere.
I've always thought it would be interesting to put a tiny GPS devise somewhere on all persons who
claim that walking, mass transit and bicycles are the way to go. I'd like the devise on those supporters
for a minimum of two months without their knowledge and a map created showing where they go on
their bikes or by transit or by foot and how many times they do so compared to how many times they
use their car or talk a friend who has a car into taking them places.
Name not shown in District 5
April 2, 2013, 2:26 PM
My support goes to the north on 11th East option. I would hope this would connect the 9th and 9th
area and ultimately the University line. Sugarhouse Park is a quick walk from 11th East.
Name not shown in District 7
April 2, 2013, 1:21 PM
I would be thrilled to be able to take my dog on leash to sugarhouse and thence to the Tanner's Park
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Where would you like the Sugar House Streetcar to take you?
for a fun outing any day of the week.
Fairmont Park would be a great destination for those coming from the East. Picnics,
sports, and wonderful walks (with my dog).
Thanks for integrating local needs with tourist and commercial/shopping needs.
Name not shown in District 7
April 2, 2013, 1:14 PM
i would like to see the streetcar run up 11 East to 1700 South. I believe the residential and retail mix
of 11 East will be more conducive to the on/off streetcar transportation. With the new pedestrian
path and tunnel to Sugarhouse park there will be easy access (2 block walk) to Sugarhouse park from
the Intersection of Highland drive and 2100 South. I think Westminster students and staff will be
more likely to use the streetcar around the clock compared to Highland high students, who already
have great bus service running up and down 2100 South.
Name not shown in District 4
April 2, 2013, 1:11 PM
Take the streetcar up 11th east to Westminster. Eventually connect to 9th and 9th and to the
University TRAX. Will have a true circulator around the City. Connecting Sugarhouse to 9th and 9th
and U of U would increase ridership.
D Christian Harrison in District 4
April 2, 2013, 1:01 PM
I love that my City is fully committed to supporting a broad range of transportation alternatives, and
I'm especially excited for our City to have a renewed network of streetcars connecting Sugar House to
the U and Downtown; 9th & 9th to Liberty Park, Central 9th, and West 9th; and all of them to each
other.
Of course, there's a good deal of time between now and that as-yet-unknown day… and the devil will
be in how we make that transition — how will we build the various segments in a way that not only
serves current riders but also is a clear signal to developers and the broader community for where the
network is going.
Both of the alternatives outlined have their strengths:
- The 11th East alternative takes us north, towards the U, immediately. It also uses 1100 East, which
is not only less congested than 1300 East, it also sports more businesses. Moreover, it has the
benefit of better serving the Westminster community — an important source for ridership.
- The 21st South alternative extends the line to an immediate community amenity, Sugar House Park
and better serves the Highland High ridership base. While it doesn't point intuitively north to the U
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Where would you like the Sugar House Streetcar to take you?
(our eventual destination), it does point decidedly to Foothill and the transit options there.
Of the two, though, I must tip my hat to the 2100 South alternative (and, specifically, the alignment
suggested by Charlie Luke)… here's why:
- 2100 South currently has more businesses, and the businesses are more linearly aligned along the
length of the course between Sugar House and Foothill.
- The distance between the current terminus and Foothill — where an immediate link to the U
currently exists — is significantly shorter than the distance we'd have to travel along 1100 East to
reach a similar link to the U (400 South). This means it would cost less to connect to the U from
Sugar House in the short term.
- Sugar House Park is a wonderful community amenity that would immediately see more use — and
an immediate return on investment for the park could be captured.
- The East Bench is woefully underserved by transit, and this extension would begin to address this
problem.
- One of the issues that casual bicyclists have is navigating the significant grade change from the
valley floor to the top of the East Bench — by going up 2100 South, the Street Car would immediately
open up more of the City to casual bicyclists by making the up-hill segment of an east-west journey
easier.
- Finally, additional segments to a 2100 South extension wouldn't have to be very long to accrue
significant ridership benefits — whereas future extensions to an 1100 East extension would
necessarily have to be significantly longer to accrue similar benefits.
--An aside: the one area that I'm curious about that isn't addressed here is our aging community — I
believe fervently in making it possible for our neighbors to "age in place". Convenient and predictable
transit options such as light rail and streetcars are an important part of the mix of services needed for
that to happen. So I'd be interested in seeing the numbers for the density of older neighbors within a
two block radius of the two extensions. I have a hunch that the 21st South extension might also win
on this one, too (though, even if it didn't, I'd still be in favor of 21st South to 11th East).
Name not shown in District 5
April 2, 2013, 12:57 PM
If we are taking a short-term view, then I think the line running North of 1100 East make sense. This
could ultimately run into 400 S. and connect with the U of U. I think it would make more sense to run
this extension along 2100 S. and Sugarhouse park. Long-term, you would be serving a larger "drivein" burb of SLC by running this extension up to Foothill and eventually the U of U. Granted, this may
take a decade, but then you have two seperate transportation nodes at the U of U (East and South
campus,) and your encompassing a larger portion of the metro area.
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Sugar House Streetcar proposal
Where would you like the Sugar House Streetcar to take you?
If you’ve ever been to San Francisco, you’ll note that street cars act very much like cars or busses
except they don't turn much.
Both routes are viable.
Moving north provides eventual conductivity to existing Trax line way in the future.
Slower traffic along 11th East might be a good thing for a residential neighborhood in the long run.
2100 South is only a one sided street with the park on the south. This route provides increased
access for many community activities to a most wonderful location in the park.
Either path that is chosen, the City Fathers would then need to consider zoning changes, tax
incentives or pocket projects that encourage development along either route North or East.
Changes are inevitable and planning is the key.
This is a very slow process and painful to some.
Jump on take a ride!
Sally Miller in District 7
April 2, 2013, 12:51 PM
I'm in favor of taking the line up 21st. Ideally it would go to Foothill. Thank you to the mayor and
council for your continued support of alternative transit.
Lorrin P Colby Jr in District 7
April 2, 2013, 12:43 PM
I'm split on this, I personally would benefit from the trolly going to the Brickyard Shopping Center,
either by way of 13th East or Highland Drive however, I think that Westminster should have a
connection too as I believe all colleges in the valley should have a train connection not just the bus.
Name not shown in District 5
April 2, 2013, 12:32 PM
I don't think that the Sugar House Streetcar's final destination should be anywhere else besides the
semi-urban intersection of 11th and 21st in Sugar House, period. An added route north would make
11th East non-drivable and divert traffic to already-busy 9th East and 13th East, while also burdening
quiet residential streets in the area with drivers looking for shortcuts. Also, the proposed east route on
21st South would greatly exacerbate the problems of the nightmare intersection of 21st South and
13th East. And to what end? Let's face it, unlike the U of U with its Trax line, Highland High and Sugar
House Park are not big, important destinations that would make such an expensive and disruptive
undertaking worth it.
As for the temptation of servicing east side neighborhoods, the reason these suburban neighborhood
even exist is because of the automobile. Discouragingly, Salt Lake motorists, like Los Angelenos, will
continue to drive cars in increasing numbers for the foreseeable future. So in that real scenario, only
urban-to-urban destinations make sense for trains and streetcars. Salt Lake once had a viable
streetcar system that serviced residential neighborhoods. But, sadly, our political leaders clumsily
blew that wonderful asset and it's a little late to try to bring it back.
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Sugar House Streetcar proposal
Where would you like the Sugar House Streetcar to take you?
I am very supportive of the streetcar and look forward to a city that is more connected. I am
concerned about how we link our neighborhoods to our business district that are based upon
travelling by car. I do not believe that density is the best predictor of viability. Rather, I think in order
for this streetcar to be successful it needs to coexist with our residential areas and the businesses. A
streetcar needs to have destination points and I believe an east route up 2100 S provides more
destination points with higher potential ridership. Moving people to those destination points is a major
component of mass transit. I realize predicting ridership for an unknown entity such as Sugar House
Park is difficult, however it deserves a value. Additionally, there are businesses on the north side of
the street and other business nodes further east. I would like it eventually connect up to the
University of Utah. By providing an alternate trax/streetcar route to the U may help take some
pressure off Foothill as well as become a major destination. With only one access point on rail to the
U via 400 S has severe limitations. The neighborhoods east of 1300 E are underserved by transit
options and have very little options in heading to the core business district but to drive.
My number one priority in this debate is to protect monument plaza. Whatever route the streetcar
takes it should not be dependent upon taking up monument plaza. I believe our community is better
served to see a pedestrian plaza and I am confident that the city can engineer an alternative that
makes the streetcar work for either route and not interfere with a potential pedestrian plaza.
Name not shown in District 7
April 2, 2013, 11:50 AM
This street car was shoved down our throats in spite of any objection or questions raised.
The cost is outrageous, but it doesn't matter...its done.
Will people ride it? Most likely, but its not Trax...its not fast.
The powers that be are going to shove the route where ever they want it, and claim it was the will of
the people...all in the name of progress.
Didn't they already dig a tunnel underneath Highland? Maybe that is still "in progress"
Run the train up to that, or through that tunnel, make it bigger if you have to. That would keep the
already over crowded streets around 1300 East and 2100 South as they are now...no lane reduction
to make room the the train would be required.
If this whole load of government project is going to have to happen in spite of objections, it should go
all out. Waste...I mean spend...as much money as possible. Make sure the route will eventually
connect to some Trax train thing that runs up Parley's to Park City/Heber City. Also force it down the
throats of the elite east-enders along Foothill Blvd. so we'd have a North-South option on the east
side as well. Then, since it will already be at Kimball Junction....continue it on to Evanston. Then
figure out a route to the various State/National Parks that are in the south. Moab...etc. why stop with
just the SL valley?
Don't forget to extend the route West to Wendover as well.
Name not shown in District 5
April 2, 2013, 11:16 AM
I am all for public transportation, but I am concerned that with these Street Car plans and now the
new plans for Bike lanes that reduction traffic lanes and some turning lanes will make Sugarhouse a
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Where would you like the Sugar House Streetcar to take you?
grid lock area for cars.
Can you imagine 2100 South (a major street) reduced from 4 lanes to 2 lanes and some turning lanes
no longer available? No for it.
I do agree that the Streetcar needs to go further close towards the ShopKo center and Sugarhouse
Park.
I think going North along 1100 East to Westminster is the logically choice for ridership numbers. Not
certain what additional individuals from the Highland High School area will use the Streetcar in large
numbers.
Name not shown in District 7
April 2, 2013, 11:13 AM
I believe 11th East is too narrow to accomodate the streetcar plus auto traffic. I would prefer the
streetcar go along 21st South to Parley's Way and end at the Walmart area by Foothill Drive. From
there riders could take a bus up Foothill that would lead to TRAX at the University completing the
circuit. Ideally TRAX should be on Foothill but that would be decades away. Also the fares should be
reasonable. I believe UTA is shooting itself in the foot with the new high fares that make it cheaper
and more convenient to drive. The fewer cars the less air pollution.
Name not shown outside Salt Lake City
April 2, 2013, 10:01 AM
I am all for public transportation. But not this .I call it the train to nowhere. I live on 2000 south. I would
have to walk 3 blocks. 1 block I can get the bus. Why would I want to go to the old Granite furniture
warehouse. What a waste of money. Should have never been started without a final plan and
destination. We need a Mayor and city counsel that knows how to wisely spend our money. They have
to much time on there hands. Thank you
Name not shown in District 5
March 30, 2013, 9:54 AM
Putting a streetcar line on 1100 East is a terrible idea. The street, north of 2100 South, is only 2
lanes wide and very congested. Once the condos/stores on the 'sugarhole' site open, congestion will
be much worse. It's already hard to get to the post office and other businesses. As I get older, I realize
that Mayor Becker's push to get everyone on bikes or public transportation just isn't feasible for
everyone. Please stop this absurd idea before it goes any further!
Name not shown in District 6
March 30, 2013, 7:57 AM
I am adamantly opposed to the streetcar being extended to 1700 East. 2100 South between 1700
and 1300 East is already so congested that both morning and afternoon traffic blocks almost the
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Sugar House Streetcar proposal
Where would you like the Sugar House Streetcar to take you?
entire stretch. All we need is a streetcar line through there to add to this mess. As I understand it,
one of the primary the purposes of the streetcar is transit oriented development. On that basis, it
makes more sense to run the line north towards Westminster College to maintain momentum in
redeveloping the Sugar House business district west of 1300 East.
Name not shown in District 6
March 29, 2013, 6:19 PM
I definitely believe the Streetcar should extend to 1700 East along 2100 South. However, for the
reasons Charlie Luke has outlined, I think the alternative route should be considered.
Name not shown in District 6
March 29, 2013, 5:51 PM
The streetcar route should continue east to 1700 E 2100 E. The proximity of Sugar House Park,
Highland High School, the businesses along 2100 S, and the diversity of expansion opportunities east
and north make this eastern route the best alternative. While the north route would move the streetcar
closer to Westminster College, an eastern route would make only a 2-3 block walk from 2100 S and
provide none of the benefits listed above. Finally, the east bench is woefully underserved by UTA. City
Councilman Charlie Luke also makes a convincing case for this route here: http://us1.campaignarchive2.com/?u=ecf0d6a5933b3483c6020dbe6&id=4d8d9bb76b&e=13dda9d5e5
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Sugar House Street Car Zoning and Master Plan Amendments
What are you thoughts on the on the proposed master plan and zoning changes near the Sugar
House Streetcar line?
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Introduction
The Salt Lake City Planning Division is seeking your input on the proposed master plan and zoning
changes near the Sugar House Streetcar line. The streetcar is proposed to be operational in late
2013.
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House Streetcar line?
As of May 6, 2013, 11:49 AM, this forum had:
Attendees:
480
Participants:
54
Hours of Public Comment: 2.7
54 participants posted comments
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Sugar House Street Car Zoning and Master Plan Amendments
What are you thoughts on the on the proposed master plan and zoning changes near the Sugar
House Streetcar line?
Duncan Campbell in District 7
April 29, 2013, 8:02 AM
I think that the streetcar would be a great addition to sugarhouse, if we use it properly. Like if we
substitute it for driving and take the streetcar instead, that would result in less traffic, and people travel
into sugarhouse regardless of the streetcar so I don't think that it would make that area more crowded
than it already is. I say put the streetcar in!
Name not shown in District 6
April 26, 2013, 3:40 PM
I oppose the idea of putting street car in Sugar House with the following reasons:
1. Sugar House is an affluent area, we don't want any more unnecessary crowds, construction and
traffic mess being added to the already small streets and quite/peaceful living area.
2. Street car will just devalue property values. Imagine the noise and rattle it creates, air polution, and
crimes from people who don't live in the neighborhood.
3. Salt Lake City is not New York City where it's so congested that public transportation is highly
needed. Salt Lake City is a small affluent unique town, especially the east area (Foothill, East bench,
Sugar House) LEAVE the way it is.
4. Unnecessary tax spending. The money can be used for improving public school system. What a
waste of money putting into the street cars where it will ruin the charm of Sugar House.
Name not shown in District 7
April 23, 2013, 1:36 PM
I am strongly opposed to the plan to extend the Sugarhouse "modern streetcar" north down 11th east.
This opposition is based on a number of factors: 1) 11th and 2100 South is an already congested and
overused intersection. The introduction of a streetcar will only add to current congestion, 2) A line
extending to nowhere, at the bottom of the hill on 17th south makes no logical sense to any larger
transportation plan, 3) the logical extension is due east through the existing and future business zone
and then be routed along the north side of Sugarhouse park, ideally beyond, 4) Sugarhouse arguably
consists of distinct mini-neighborhoods defined by 11th e, 9th e, 7th e and 2100s, 1700 s, 1300s. An
introduction of a trolley line on 11th e will increase traffic on all n-s side streets west(and probably
east) and further divide the exiting enclaves, 5) increased traffic in these areas decrease the
desirability and family presence, which is a critical dimension of the Sugarhouse neighborhood.
This is a bad idea conceived on the recommendations of some "advisory council" that obviously has
no connection or interest in the odd juxtaposition of public and private space that defines the
Sugarhouse experience. Please do not proceed with this hasty extension plan. As stated above, the
only logical extension is to connect the transit starved east bench area to the larger city network by
continuing the rail line east.....not north.....
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Sugar House Street Car Zoning and Master Plan Amendments
What are you thoughts on the on the proposed master plan and zoning changes near the Sugar
House Streetcar line?
I think the proposed street car should continue to head East, connecting to Sugarhouse Park and
hopefully beyond. With this, improved bus service on the north/south lines in the area would be of
great benefit.
Name not shown in District 5
April 23, 2013, 12:07 PM
I am strongly opposed to the extension of the Sugarhouse street car north on 1100 East. I have lived
just off of 1100 East (near 1300 South) now for about 12 years and one of the reasons I bought a
house in this area is because it is a quiet pedestrian neighborhood where people walk and ride their
bikes. The traffic on 1100 East between 1700 South and 800 South is relatively light and there is
currently UTA bus service on this route with low to average ridership.
The average cost of constructing a street car line is between $2million and $10million per mile (see
http://www.heritagetrolley.org/artcileBringBackStreetcars7.htm). To complete the proposed section
from Sugarhouse to 9th and 9th along 1100 East (about 3 miles) would cost between $6million and
$30million. Using the lower number of $6million and assuming that maintenance of street car service
is in line with that of bus service, the UTA could offer FREE bus service on this route for 60 years
($100,000/year) for the same cost of putting in a street car route. More realistically, the cost of
construction will be closer to $20million. UTA could offer FREE bus service for about 200 years at
that rate.
Salt Lake City Council, please end the street car line at 2100 S. and Highland and stop wasting
money.
Bruce Bradley in District 6
April 23, 2013, 9:38 AM
Very weak reasons were given in the Simonsen and Luke letters promoting eastward extension of the
street car line.
Actually, residence properties eastward along 2100 S. would decline in value, and many residences
would gradually be replaced by transient struggling commerce, spoiling the peaceful park and
neighborhoods.
Residents do not want or need a street car.
If there are public funds to burn, please spend on bike racks, bike and pedestrian safety, and security
personnel in the existing Sugarhouse business district.
Name not shown in District 7
April 23, 2013, 9:23 AM
I am a former U of U student as of 2010. Having the street car go directly to a simple University
connection would have been great. As well as having access to Sugarhouse Park. I love the park but
driving there even though it's so close discourages me at times. Be great to have a quicker route
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there and to 21st and 21st as I frequent those businesses and in-laws live that direction (walking
distance from proposed route to the east.)
Personally, I would use the east route and be disgusted if the car goes north onto 1100, Highland.
The congestion is already bad in this intersection and the east route stop (I'm assuming is only a
block from most of those businesses to the north.
Thank you,
John Dunbar outside Salt Lake City
April 23, 2013, 8:45 AM
I have just finished reading Mr. Simonsen's well written letter regarding the Sugar House Streetcar
line extension. I wholly agree with his arguments that the line should be extended to the east to Sugar
House Park and the up 2100 South.
I believe that this will be the most cost effective and most beneficial use of this line and will ultimately
provide the opportunity to make this line a true asset in our pursuit of efficient, convenient, and user
friendly mass transit.
Thank you Mr. Simonsen for a well thought out and reasoned presentation.
Name not shown in District 6
April 23, 2013, 7:48 AM
Ordinarily, we can count on Charlie Luke for common sense among this ship of fools (City Council),
but this time, he is failing us. Sluke (Simonsen Luke combo) is as unnatural as the 2100 South trolley
extension. It is a Sugar House Trolley - leave it in Sugar House proper, and don't destroy what is left
of 2100 South, since if a trolley goes that route, kiss any remaining nice homes on that street
goodbye. No one with any sense wants to live on 2100 as it is - put a trolley in and you have
commercial development or slum housing - take your pick - ditto the area across the street from
Highland High, which, in just the past few years has seen home improvements, which will soon be a
thing of the past after a trolley line goes in on 2100 South.
The tennis court area of Fairmont Park is an eyesore, community garden or not. Was there any
planning at all when a decision was made to bisect this park with the Boys and Girls club and then
neglect the tennis area entirely? This is the perfect time to undo this mess and turn it back into a
park. If that can't happen, then the people on Simpson Avenue better get used to the fact that their
once quiet, albeit neglected little neighborhood is gone. The Trolley (aka Becker's Folley) will undo
that - the name of the game is 'transit-oriented development.'
Jeff Pickett in District 7
April 23, 2013, 12:32 AM
I live in District 7 and have lived here for nearly 30 years. I drive along 2100 South every day and,
consequently, am very familiar with the traffic patterns along this street. With that background, I am
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greatly concerned about extending the Streetcar line beyond McClelland Street and north along 1100
East for the following reasons: (1) 1100 East is a narrow street that is already extremely congested.
While a streetcar will reduce some traffic, I do not believe it would reduce traffic enough to offset the
loss of one or more lanes. (2) The 2100 S/1100 E intersection is very busy. I drive through that
intersection everyday during rush hour and cannot imagine how busy it would be with lane restrictions
due to a streetcar line. (3) The destination serves a very limited population (2,500 students at
Westminster) who need to travel a short distance to a single destination. While I recognize that there
may be a need for these students, it seems like bus lines along 1100 East would be a better solution
to meet their needs.
Despite these concerns, I am even more concerned with Council Member Simonsen's proposal of
extending the Streetcar line east to Sugarhouse Park, Highland High, and eventually further east. I
have these concerns for the following reasons: (1) While I have not seen a proposal as to the route
that would be taken to extend the line from McClelland to Sugarhouse Park, it would seem to me that
it would have to go along 1100 East to either 2100 South or Wilmington. For many of the reasons
described above, I have concerns with the line going along 1100 East due to congestion. (2) The line
would then either need to (a) go along 2100 South from 1100 East to 1300 East, which is the busiest
section of 2100 South and which would limit access to those businesses along that section of 2100
South or (b) go east on Wilmington to 1300 East. 1300 East is already extremely congested and
limiting a lane would further increase this congestion. (3) The stretch along 2100 South from 1300
East to 1700 East, while less congested than the 1100 East to 1300 East section, becomes incredibly
congested during rush hour, particularly the westbound side with the two turn lanes that turn left
(south) onto 1300 East. In addition, when there are accidents at that intersection, I have seen traffic
backed up all the way to 2300 East. Having a streetcar line that takes some of those traffic lanes
would further increase the congestion. (4) There are homes and a high school along 2100 South
from 1300 East eastward. I worry that the children living in those homes and attending these schools
will be at greater risk of accidents happening, particularly the young drivers attending Highland High.
(5) I'm greatly concerned about extending the line beyond 1700 East as traffic is heavy and the
streets are narrow. Particularly during the morning rush hour, there is a lot of congestion at the
21st/21st intersection because of parents taking their children to Dilworth. A streetcar will not solve
those issues and will further compound them.
I recognize that the majority of my concerns relate to congestion in an already busy area and that the
logical counter-argument is that a streetcar will relieve the congestion. In his recent letter to the
residents of District 7, Council Member Simonsen noted that there are "very few bus routes running
north and south through this area, and none that run continuously east and west." I fear that we are
not answering the question, "why is that the case?" The reason these bus lines don't exist is because
the demand for public transportation in these areas does not exist. If the demand existed, UTA would
create the necessary bus lines because they would generate a profit for UTA. Unfortunately, I fear we
are living in the Field of Dreams with the mindset that "if we build it, they will come." That line of
thinking is backwards. The proper line of thinking is if the demand for the services is there, we should
build the line. I fear the demand is not there.
Finally, while we are no longer technically in a recession, most people are treating their personal
finances as if we are in a recession. It seems to me that the prudent thing right now would be for our
government to treat our tax dollars as if we were in a recession as well. Part of the money that is
being spent on this is mine and I do not want my hard-earned money spent making traffic in my
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neighborhood more congested than it already is.
Jahn Barlow in District 3
April 22, 2013, 11:05 PM
I always favor more open space, so I can hardly believe that I'm about to advocate for rezoning the
open space at the Sugar House tennis courts. However, this seems like a critical corner in connecting
the emerging urban corridor along the streetcar line. The reality is there is nothing of interest between
900 East and McLelland, and this stretch of Sugarmont becomes even less inviting after dark. There
is plenty of open space at Fairmont Park. What this corner needs is a really well-planned mixed-use
SMALL-SCALE development that will serve as a neighborhood gathering place.
If you do rezone the tennis court open space, please find another suitable location for the community
garden!
Donald Malouf in District 7
April 22, 2013, 8:04 PM
As residents of the Highland Park area of Salt Lake City, my wife and I would like to lend our support
to the streetcar route proposed by our Councilman, Soren Simonsen.
We feel that extending the route farther east than 1100 East would provide more useful connections
and result in less congestion than the route north through what is already a traffic problem.
Thank you so much for you attention.
Donald and Linda Malouf
Name not shown in District 7
April 22, 2013, 6:37 PM
I am against the Sugar House streetcar running on 1100 East. I use that road frequently, and I am
concerned that with the streetcar on that road, it will become a "one way only" road...or even more
narrow than it already is. The area near the post office is often chaotic as it is, and the businesses
near there may suffer if it is more difficult for people to drive/park at for these locations. I do not
believe that the streetcar would be more functional than the UTA bus system that already runs along
that road. I use that bus often and would be disappointed if it's route were disrupted or changed.
Name not shown in District 7
April 22, 2013, 6:21 PM
We are not in favor of the Sugar House Streetcar line.
We live in this neighborhood and we feel that this will take our quiet neighborhood away. This would
create intrusion of our neighbor and will add more traffic congestion.
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The bus system works very nicely serving Highland and 11th East.
Name not shown outside Salt Lake City
April 22, 2013, 5:38 PM
I agree with the Mayor's proposal that the streetcar go north on 1100 East. That makes more sense
to me that it would increase ridership. There is not much at 2100 south and foothill. I am a member of
the SL County Bicycle Advisory Committee and have looked at cycling and alternate forms of
transportation for the last few years.
Thanks
Chris Peterson
Brad Clinch in District 7
April 22, 2013, 4:47 PM
I am a resident of District 7 and fully agree with Council Member Simonsen's opinion that the
streetcar should not be constructed along 11th East. That street is much too tight and busy to be able
to share with the streetcar. Future expansion of the streetcar line east toward Sugarhouse Park, and
hopefully further east, is by far the best choice as access to the park and Highland High would be
greatly improved. Imagine the potential to reduce some of the car traffic on the Fourth of July, to
mention just one benefit to the 21st south option. Thank Council Mmeber Simonsen for speaking up
for your constituents!
Name not shown outside Salt Lake City
April 22, 2013, 4:22 PM
Please do not put the streetcar along 1100 East. There are many local businesses this would hurt.
2100 South seems like the logical choice, the street is wider and it could connect up to Foothill. Look
at the studies regarding current bus routes usage. 1100 East does not get used and 2100 south does.
I work on 1100 East and would hate to see construction on 1100 East for several months. 1100 East
is a walkable street, 2100 South is not.
Name not shown in District 7
April 22, 2013, 10:41 AM
I am strongly opposed to a streetcar on 1100 East or through Sugar House Square. Having a
streetcar on this route would dissect the heart of Sugar House, and sever the arteries that allow
access to the businesses and residences in the area. I would prefer to see the streetcar line end at
Phase 1 and continue with bus service in a "hub and spoke" concept. This concept would allow for a
flexible solution to address future growth and broader service to the community. I believe extending
the street car line, especially on 1100 East, would urbanize and destroy what makes Sugar House an
attracive neighborhood.
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House Streetcar line?
I am a business owner in the path of the proposed street car. The proposed project and its ensuing
construction would disrupt or eradicate my business. About 40-50% of my customers are car
dependent. Losing even a few parking spots or having the entrances to available parking blocked,
even for a few weeks, could highly impact people easily bringing large amounts of books to my door.
This happens on a daily basis and the city needs to not disrupt that critical part of my business.
11th East buses are nearly empty going by and cause much of the traffic backup around my store. I
believe we need to re-think the use of existing public transit very honestly, especially while existing
construction projects are completed around the old Granite block. When that project is fully
embedded into the neighborhood, the transit needs of Sugarhouse might look very differently. The
proposed line, with its high price tag, should continue along 21st South to link with existing highly
utilized spaces like Sugarhouse Park and Highland High School. Having a streetcar with no highly
utilized destination and with such a great impact on existing businesses has no merit. Please see
reason and don't waste immense resources to hurt the parts of 11th East in Sugarhouse that make it
a desirable spot to visit.
Name not shown in District 6
April 21, 2013, 10:20 PM
I think that it is a great idea. The streetcar has become such an important part of travel for Utah
residents especially in the Sugar House area. It helps to reduce gas emissions and traffic while
promoting building commuties and making it easier to get from place to place. I think that the newly
proposed streetcar is a great idea and that the construction that goes along with it is worth it. The
Streetcar should continue to expand into the future as well.
Sarah Woolsey in District 7
April 21, 2013, 8:54 PM
Sugarhouse resident Sarah Woolsey--I also advocate for open space to remain at the tennis court
area. This has brought lots of interaction/community--keep it a park, garden, interactive space.
Name not shown in District 5
April 21, 2013, 2:35 PM
Studies show that 2100 South has one of the most highly utilized bus lines and 1100 Est has one of
the lowest utilized bus routes. This shows us all what the best option is. I understand Westminster is
the only supporter of the 1100 East line, but they need to be realistic. 2100 South is very close to
Westminster and student housing. PLEASE think about local businesses on 1100 East, they would all
suffer greatly. NO STREET CAR ON 1100 EAST.
Name not shown in District 6
April 21, 2013, 2:27 PM
I would support the street car if it was self supporting, which it will never be. Having said that and
knowing that the line is already being built, the best end point would be to connect to Foothill Village.
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House Streetcar line?
It should be obvious to everyone that 11th east is too narrow already for a street car. I think having a
sugarhouse street car is a great idea, but i just don't see it working too well. The trax on 4th south and
other places cause confusion and accidents; I would never want sugarhouse to feel that chaotic and
overwhelming. We already have a lot of great buses, it is very easy to get where you need to be by
using public transportation. Instead of adding a streetcar we could put some of the money into our
bus systems. A streetcar in sugarhouse would increase the crowded feeling that already exists in the
many narrow streets.
Ben Pendleton in District 7
April 20, 2013, 1:45 PM
My name is Ben Pendleton, I am 23 years old, and I have been a resident of the Sugarhouse area for
the last 5 years. In that time I have attended and had to commute to Westminster College. I no
longer attend the college but I can be a voice for those students because my wife and I are now new
owners of a 4-plex on 800 East and just South of 2100 South. A lot of the applicants interested in
renting from me are students who attend Westminster or the U of U. So naturally this streetcar
proposal has a direct interest from my wife and I by increasing the interest of current and future
tenants because it would run right next to our property. In my opinion, this proposed plan TO TAKE
THE STREETCAR UP 2100 SOUTH would definitely benefit the community much more than the
1100 East option, and also my current and future tenants.
1100 East is a very narrow street and the construction alone would cause a huge concern for me and
other members of the community.
This could also potentially require current businesses to close or move their locations because of the
expansion required to run the streetcar down 1100 East.
1100 East is an established community and mostly residential North of 2100 South. So there isn't
much more room for growth as you head further north. So why would we bring more transit to areas
where the growth isn't going to be?
As a new homeowner I am very excited to have a voice in the community and I am very excited about
what his happening in Sugarhouse to help reinvigorate the township.
As homeowners in Sugarhouse, my wife and I are supporters of Soren Simonsen's proposal to take
the street car further East.
Name not shown in District 7
April 20, 2013, 10:39 AM
Running the streetcar along 1100 East makes no sense at all. 1300 East is wider and closer to the
college than 1100. In order to put it on 1100 East, the street would have to be widened, which could
require tearing down some of the businesses on the street. I don't think any of the residents or
business owners would like that too much.
I have lived in the area for over 40 years and like the quiet streets and small businesses. Don't
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change it now to service college students who would benefit more by having the streetcar go directly
by their school, not 2 blocks away.
I agree with the plan proposed by Soren Simonsen.
Name not shown in District 6
April 19, 2013, 12:23 PM
As a resident of Sugarhouse for 20+ years, I do not feel that EITHER of the proposed routes for the
Sugarhouse streetcar would be a good choice.
I chose to move to the area along 2100 South purely because of the aesthetics---(the beauty of the
park and mountains is unsurpassed). the sense of openness and ease of mobility. Running the tracks
, wires and streetcars up and down this area would severely impact the beauty of the surroundings in
a negative way, and impede one's ability to drive expeditiously. I also believe that when the aesthetics
and "feeling" of an area is impacted in a negative way, property values go down, which is not good for
homeowners nor the tax base.
I am also concerned about safety and security in a residential area (such as the one adjacent to
Highland High, the proposed route), and have observed much unpleasantness in terms of loiterers
and unsafe situations at many of the Trax stops downtown.
In addition, 2100 South is extremely crowded with traffic between 700 East and 1300 East, especially
at lunchtime, rush hour, and on shopping weekends and holidays. I have experienced many nearmisses with other cars simply because people are pressed for time and rushing to complete errands.
Addition of a Trax line would severely impede traffic and be a huge disservice to those of us who must
drive, for whatever reason.
The other proposed option, north on 1100 East would be equally bad due to already crowded
conditions.
Why not investigate a 3rd option, perhaps north down 700 East? It is a wide street and could easily
accommodate a Trax line.
The City of Atlanta has the best solution......they run shuttle buses from their "MARTA" streetcar
stations outward to wherever people are most likely to go.
Why not investigate that? A "hub-and-spoke" concept? It would be much more neighborhood
friendly.
Also, I believe there used to be streetcar tracks that ran along the south edge of the area where
"Sugarhouse BBQ" is located. Why not investigate whether that would be a viable option?
I realize the funding has been granted needs to be spent but please do not turn an otherwise beautiful
area into a crowded, aggravating, visually ugly mess
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11th east is already too crowded and narrow with traffic congestion, especially during the winter
holidays (post office). I think the line up to Sugarhouse park would be more beneficial and used by the
public-- students can easily walk to Westminster 2 blocks from the park area.
Name not shown in District 7
April 19, 2013, 9:08 AM
The Sugar House streetcar presents an opportunity to provide public transportation on a regional
scale if it extends up 21st to Foothill. Park City commuters like myself would then be able to ride the
bus, use the streetcar and leave our stinky cars in the mountains on most weekdays. Please extend
the streetcar up 21st. Thanks
Name not shown in District 7
April 18, 2013, 10:55 PM
I believe that the expantion of the streetcar north on 1100 East is the best idea. This would be
beneficial to the students attending Westminster College.
Ellie Pendleton in District 5
April 18, 2013, 3:43 PM
I do not want to see a Streetcar going down 11th East. That is a walking area. It is a narrow driving
area. To put a Streetcar there would destroy all of the things we enjoy so much there. Let's leave
Surgar House as it is. We love it. Many people are coming here because of the Small Town effect has
on us all. Don't destroy what we love so much.
Jessica Steed in District 7
April 18, 2013, 11:29 AM
I adamantly oppose this streetcar line at all. If the world and the government were made of money
then yes, I think a charming little train that clogs traffic and helps out a minor few achieve *their* idea
of an ideal urban lifestyle would be tolerated. But as 30 million dollars is a lot of money and is paid for
by hard-working citizens I think the money is better spent elsewhere.
Name not shown in District 2
April 18, 2013, 8:15 AM
I believe there are positives and negatives to this. Positives are that it would help college students
who don't ahve cars have a direct and less time consuming shot to their classes. It might also
encourage walking in the area. Negatives would be adding more crowd to an already crowded area,
since the Sugar House roads are so narrow. I think that if you can passed the extra squish, then it's a
great idea.
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Sugar House Street Car Zoning and Master Plan Amendments
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House Streetcar line?
I heartily support the extension of the streetcar north on 1100 East! This would be very beneficial to
the thousands of Westminster College students, many of whom do not have cars, as it would allow us
access to Central Pointe (and therefore the U of U, downtown Salt Lake, the airport, and south all the
way to Draper). We're a very environmentally conscious group of people, and would love to be able
to contribute to decreased emissions to better the valley's air quality by riding public transportation
exclusively.
Clay Pendleton in District 5
April 17, 2013, 9:22 PM
I live close to the Sugarhouse area and feel that the zoning change to perhaps allow the Street Cars
to go along 11th East would make it very difficult for traffic since it's already a "Squeeze Shoot
Corridor" - down a very narrow passage until to you come to Highland Dr. I would be against that
proposed plan and would rather see the Street Car plan go up 21st South street or better - make a
connection from 7th East down to Van Winkle and then South perhaps down 9th East or South down
13th East to Sandy and perhaps futher to Draper. We all know what caused most cities to get rid of
their old street car systems in the first place - The Oil and rubber industries. Salt Lake at one time
had a nice street car system in place but for some personal reasons was torn up and disbanded like
many other cities thougout the United States. It would have been nice to still have in use the old style
street cars working here in Salt Lake City, like they have in San Francisco, and we could have had
most lines already in place - so now were spending money to bring it back. If we are now planing to
propose where are funds will be used and where they will run lets make it available to people so they
don't have to drive to a location to get on one but make it close to walking distance. This is the
reason why I feel that the connection made at 7th East would be a better choice because the street
car could go straight down the middle of the street. Thereby, allowing plenty of room for both sides of
traffic and an easy connection hookup back to the main lines that head to the University of Utah or
back to downtown areas. This makes easier access for people wanting to travel to downtown areas
on light rail.
Name not shown in District 7
April 17, 2013, 2:14 PM
Keep the Sugarmont Tennis Courts as open space for use by the community.
I am a sugar house home owner who moved to this neighborhood specifically for it's
walk-ability, locally owned businesses and it's public/green spaces. I believe that it is essential to the
neighborhood "feel" to maintain as much public space as possible. If the area near the boys and girls
club needs to be rezoned I strongly recommend that it become an extension of the park that is
already there and provide a place for community to meet, mingle, play and relax. The boys and girls
club and the open space provides huge benefits to all of society, benefits that are measurable and
invaluable. The area south of 2100 south is a community of homeowners who use the green spaces
on a regular basis and know the value to the health of their families and their community.
I am and have been a supporter of the street car. I have also been a member of the Sugar House
Community Garden. I see the value in both maintaining quiet places for community gathering and the
value in growth and renovation. Striking the right balance so that communities thrive and prosper is
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hard to achieve. This is our chance to get it right. Keep the boys and girls club and the Sugarmont
Tennis Courts a place that sugar house residents can use to strengthen our community ties by
keeping it as open space.
Name not shown in District 7
April 17, 2013, 1:24 PM
When the city neglected this space for 20 years, a community group took it upon themselves to create
a community garden. This designated open space wouldn't be up for development consideration if the
city had kept it up as tennis courts or park space in the first place. Our neighborhood has shown
plenty of interest and pride in keeping this space open. Please do not remove this land from city open
space inventory.
The Boys & Girls Club is an anchor for families in our neighborhood. It offers us sports, summer
camps, and is a licensed day care. Rezoning this land could put their location in jeopardy and the
community wouldn't let this happen quietly. Please don't rezone and put their 50-year lease with the
city on the table for developers.
Name not shown outside Salt Lake City
April 17, 2013, 12:17 PM
I am absolutely opposed to taking the street car above 1300 East on 2100 South. Those who want to
access Sugarhouse Park will be able to walk there easily by the 1100 East location. Taking the street
car closer to Highland High creates an unreasonable danger to children who attend the preschool at
Highland as well as many young drivers. There is a high likelihood of a crash with a street car due to
the number of inexperienced drivers going to and from Highland. Further, many Highland students
walk to school across 2100 South. The amount of traffic already is difficult and sometimes
dangerous. Let's not make it worse.
Further up 2100 South, approximately half of Dilworth Elementary's population has to cross 2100
South to go to school. This is already dangerous enough without adding a street car to the mix.
Many of the children walk to and from school and placing a street car unreasonably increases the
danger for 100's of small children.
Please do not extend the line up 2100 South above 1300 East.
Robert A Jones in District 7
April 17, 2013, 12:04 PM
Leave the tennis courts on Simpson Ave as open space. A few years ago, the city presented a plan
to fix up the tennis court area and make it part of the park. The city should be headed in that
direction, not developing it for housing. Sugar House needs more open space, not less.
Lynn Schwarz in District 7
April 17, 2013, 9:23 AM
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House Streetcar line?
Please do not remove the Boy's and Girl's Club and former tennis court areas from the open space
inventory! We need more open space, not less.
Also, please do not allow SROs or boarding houses as a permitted use.
Name not shown in District 5
April 17, 2013, 5:49 AM
Why, as always, is SLC asking for input from nearby residents and businesses after its already
determined (and paid) for its plan. I have a business right on the boundary of this mess, but was
given no prior notice nor asked for any input until now.
Teddy Anderson in District 7
April 16, 2013, 8:46 PM
The new streetcar line runs along my back yard and I am thrilled to live in a city valuing and funding
these projects! As many before have said, I highly value the "open space" on 900 for the community
garden. Let's throw a little money that way, too. And, I personally support the idea of the next phase
going east along 2100 S. This would start connecting us better to the east bench, and in the mean
time serve as a natural extension for getting to the park and beyond. 1100 is such a nice walking
street for those wishing to venture forth from the main plaza. But as of December I am very excited to
walk out my back door and take a train to the airport! Nice work, city. I appreciate your dedication and
work.
Name not shown in District 2
April 16, 2013, 2:15 PM
It's really nice that there is going to be a new kind of transportation, and i suppport that decision
because it will help people get to their desteny fast without waiting
Name not shown in District 7
April 16, 2013, 2:04 PM
Please leave the tennis courts as open space. They are currently being used as a community garden
and it would be great to have that included in the master plan. I don't believe that we need more
condo/apartment buildings. If anything more open space should be included in the proposal. We
need more walk-able space in the Sugar House area to encourage people to park their cars and be a
part of the community. There is the the potential to develop a great neighborhood that could attract
people. Think of South Street in Philadelphia, Ybor City in Tampa, many of the neighborhoods in San
Francisco, or Broadway Ave in Nashville. These are neighborhoods that people are excited to visit
and come back to. Salt Lake could use a bit more character; and this Trolley is a chance to develop it
in the Sugar House area.
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Sugar House Street Car Zoning and Master Plan Amendments
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House Streetcar line?
I am strongly in favor of the Eleventh East option for the future continuation of the new Streetcar line.
Sugar House Park will soon have the Draw to bring visitors to this beautiful but already busy and
crowded park, through this new feature. Providing a transit option north along Eleventh East would be
a major step in providing real mass transit access throughout the city, connecting a number of
distinctive neighborhoods and smaller business districts.
Beyond providing students of Westminster College a greener way to travel within their environs
(reducing both auto traffic and related pollution), the businesses in Sugar House--especially along
Eleventh East--will gain a new source of direct and easy access to their businesses, as streetcars
stop more often than Trax or trains.
The Streetcar line facilitates the neighborhood goal of making Sugar House a "destination;" by
advancing that line along Eleventh East, it will be better connected to the rest of the city and better
positioned to provide further mass transit options in the area. It will provide the greatest benefit for
both both people and local businesses.
William Metcalfe in District 7
April 16, 2013, 10:46 AM
900 East is an access street and should remain an "Access Street." 900 East is an important
commuting street and automobile traffic should not be impeded with the exception of the Streetcar
crossing.
Hugh Johnson in District 7
April 16, 2013, 9:29 AM
Let me get this straight: people who live and own businesses on 1100 E will loose access to their
property and businesses permanently, so students of Westminster College can have a train that goes
less than 3 miles; how many students live in the Sugarhous commons shopping center? Spending
another 30 MILLION tax payer dollars to provide 3 miles of transportation to temporary residents of
the area (students) a tiny sliver of the population who do not pay any taxes, is beyond ridiculous. Why
not run the trax train through Federal Heights and destroy the property values of people living there,
why? because that is where the city council and mayor lives. NOBODY NEEDS THIS TRAIN TO
NOWHERE!!!
Name not shown in District 7
April 16, 2013, 9:23 AM
As a resident of the Sugar House community I would propose that the tennis courts on 900 East
where the Sugar House Community Garden resides remain as open space. There are a number of
multiple residence dwelling units going into the Sugarhouse area. I would not appreciate another one.
Please keep the historical character of the community in mind when creating policies and selling off
land for development.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
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House Streetcar line?
Stop the madness. Trolly is not needed. we are in hard times.
Name not shown in District 7
April 15, 2013, 9:05 PM
Regarding the change in zoning for the open space on 9th east currently occupied by the tennis
courts and Boys and Girls Club, PLEASE keep that an open space. The city has few precious spaces
left, please preserve what we have. There are many great uses for the space that could benefit the
community rather than developers and business owners. The area has so much to offer, please don't
commercialize it or build multi-story apartments.
Name not shown in District 7
April 15, 2013, 11:24 AM
As a Sugar House resident, I strongly advocate the 1100E corridor. Not only would this provide
transportation to businesses along this line, it would provide public transportation for students of
Westminster College. In bringing public transit to students, we cut down on the carbon emissions
produced by students driving to the campus and it would help to clear our streets of the cars that park
during school hours.
Burton Brown in District 7
April 15, 2013, 9:15 AM
I would encourage Council members to keep the Tennis Court area as Open Space. Cities
everywhere are always complaining/clamoring for more open space...not less.
The courts can be resurfaced and improved, and can be a destination stop for the SH Trolley. The
Boys/Girls Club should stay as it will already be a destination for trolley riders.
The courts have been in blight condition for decades, and the city has already spent $60K
investigating court improvements, so the plans to improve the courts already exist, and would merely
need implementation. Parks and recreation are indeed factors that increase ridership of public
transportation.
I would also add that the homes along Simpson Ave currently have no back neighbors, which is an
attraction and, for many, the reason they moved to this street.
By adding some apartment, condo or whatever, you will totally change the nature of the
neighborhood. The Boys/Girls Club is heavily used and desired by the community, so why change
that?
A friend also pointed out that the only reason this Open/Park space is even being considered today is
because the city has neglected the tennis courts for decades, and allowed it to fall into disrepair. If it
had been maintained, and kept up, it would already be an active part of the community as a court,
and as such, it would not be under consideration for a zone change.
Stephanie Godinez outside Salt Lake City
April 14, 2013, 9:21 PM
This is a great idea, it would even make more sense for the trax to connect to the university red line
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this way students can get to where they need to go.
Nick Raoux in District 5
April 13, 2013, 12:02 PM
Although the burden of building a new TRAX line up 1100 E seems like a logistical nightmare, the
people it would benefit outweighs any other alternative. The money spent in bringing the TRAX line
up 1100E would bring great benefit to the community of Sugarhouse by helping the students of
Westminster College (who are the most likely to use this line) and by bringing economic prosperity to
the local businesses on 1100 E all the way up to 9th and 9th.
It makes the most sense to connect the Trax with the University line, fully connecting the Salt Lake
Valley with a reliable means of transportation. Giving the students of Westminster College a means of
transportation to and from downtown would benefit this entire state. The UTA busses are impractical
in the winter, and unreliable year round. Please, consider the benefits and overall logic of bringing the
TRAX line up 1100E.
Sincerely,
Concerned Sugarhouse Citizen.
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Comments between 12:00 p.m. May 3, 2013 and 1:00 pm May 7, 2013
name
comments
Mark and Ashely Kittrell
Dear Councilperson Love, I write to voice mine, and my wife's, support for the Sugar House Streetcar line to run along 1100 East. We both reside in your district. We believe this to be the best route for the Sugar House neighborhood and economic development. Studies show that the greatest ridership will occur along that proposed route. With increased ridership, you will see increased dollars to be spent on local businesses. Furthermore, this represents a wonderful way to connect to vital neighborhoods in the city ‐‐ the 9th & 9th area with the Sugar House area. The 2100 South option concerns me because it would run along the Sugar House Park's northern edge. Streetcars are implemented as a means for economic development. If the route ran along that edge of the Park, I fear you would see economic development pressure for the crown jewel of our local park system. Coincidentally, I serve on the Sugar House Park Authority, and we are concerned about that development as well. The Authority, in a written letter to Mayor Becker, expressed that it does not prefer the 2100 South route. I even think a 2100 South route would impede traffic flow on a major artery through the City, as it runs in regular traffic lanes. With respect to any argument that the line would benefit the Park, my personal opinion is that it's not needed. The Park will have (hopefully) the development of the Parley's Trail this year through it. The Draw will connect, under 1300 East, the Park with the rest of Sugar House. The Draw would be a five minute walk from the McClelland stop at Highland. Further, the Park has no problem getting people to use and enjoy it. If you ever show up during the weekend in late Spring, Summer, and early Fall, you'll see this. Finally, if a stop was created by the Park, you would certainly have to see chunks of the Park carved out to accommodate a streetcar stop. I know that this is a tough decision for all on the Council, but I hope that you vote for the 1100 East route.
Ellen Parish
Hi Jill, You know me from my membership on the ELPCO community council. Our council has not yet arrived at a consensus opinion on the streetcar, but I have, personally. I think eleventh east makes sense and that’s where the streetcar should go. East Benchers have enough amenities, and the Westminster, U of U neighborhoods would use the streetcar option more, I believe. Plus, it’s funkiness matches the tone and timbre of the Sugarhouse 11th east neighborhood ambience. I don’t think the protesters are aware of how beneficial the streetcar would be for their neighborhoods. Ed Butterfield needs to get out there more and do some more “convincin.†Better yet, Mayor Becker himself could persuade this vocal minority of benefits of a streetcar in the neighborhood. Meanwhile, for what it’s worth, add my voice to those who favor the 11th east option. Thank you for all you do for we SLC citizens, I am proud to live in the best City in Utah.
Michael Hansen
I don't want my kids to cross the tracks on their way to elementary school. To Dangerous!
Jesse Knight
Because it will be going right past my house and people in my ward are going to have to lose some of their property.
Jans B. Wager
No on 11th East Streetcar in Sugarhouse.
East Central Community Coucnil
Dear Mayor, Jill, Luke, all other members of the City Council, Robin, and staff; After the City Council public hearing on April 23, 2013, we took an additional poll of the ECC members who are enrolled as part of our electronic Google system. Our current enrollment is 2117. The outcome was 618 responded and 608 sustained the previous ECC position or 1100 East from 2100 South to 900 South, west on 900 South to 900 East, north on 900 East to the 400 Trax station. Dissenting comments were the following: Of the 618, 10 were in favor of east on 2100 South Additional comments or questions were: 1. Why don’t we just leave the 209 bus on 900 East. It works well. 2. Consider a new route, west on 2100 South and make a Sugar House loop 3. Concern for the welfare of the small businesses located on 1100 East 4. Concern about rezoning on 1100 East 5. Concern about crime that transit brings In behalf of the Executive Board and General Membership Esther Hunter & Gary Felt Chairs East Central Community Council
Jans Wager
I am a resident of Sugarhouse. I live just off off 11th East on Sherman Avenue. I oppose the streetcar on what is currently a lovely, quiet street with many thriving small businesses. I think the business, the neighborhood, and the property values would suffer with the streetcar.
Amber Mettler
I just wanted to write briefly to express my strong support for the 1100 E streetcar route.
Bruce Wollstenhulme
All, I am writing to strongly recommend a "no" vote on the current proposal to extend the Sugarhouse streetcar north on 1100 E. I'm in agreement with many others who feel that such a plan is very ill‐advised due to increased congestion and the overwhelming opposition by those most affected including businesses and residents close to the street. I attended early meetings on the Sugarhouse plan, and any mention of extending the route north or otherwise was presented in terms of the distant future. As such, I was very troubled that it appears a decision has already been made. I was also very unimpressed by the logic that was presented in favor of the 1100 E. plan (more potential for ridership...compared to what, economic development for whom at the expense of the residents?). In this situation, no action would be much better than the wrong action. Please listen to the voice of the people on this one. Sunk costs associated with a feasibility study should not be a driver in any such decision.
Catherine Lukes
FIRST ‐ do not tell me we DON't understand that because of your actions (sugarhole) the number of residents in Sugarhouse are increasing by at least 2,000 ‐ should have thought about that little (huge in my opinion) issue BEFORE the development was approved. I don’t understand why the Mayor is hellbent on putting this streetcar on 1100 East in BOTH DIRECTIONS when the CURRENT RESIDENTS AND BUSINESSES DON’T want it while the businesses on 21st from 1100 East to 1700 East WANT it. The “Westminster College†students will NOT use it – I say in all caps BS – they will continue to drive from the new “dorms†or penthouse condos on 1300 east to the campus. When my daughter went to Westminster we carpooled in our Toyota Corolla and it didn’t matter what time of day, there was a pittance of students and staff who took the bus on 1300 East. It is even more painfully obvious that NONE of the “planners†or the mayor live or has a business on 1100 East or in the near vicinity. It would make 100% more sense to put the “streetcar†(1 ONLY) like the route (feel so so so sorry for those residents who now get to hear the streetcar next to their homes) from State to Fairmont Park, from 1100 East to 1700 East (serving Sugarhouse Park and Highland High), and reduce the lanes from 4 to 2 all the way up to the freeway entrance. In the future, it makes more economic sense to run the rail from 1700 East up 21st South through the Walmart parking lot (commuter perhaps?)to connect with a 2‐way rail car on Foothill.
charlene durham
I strongly object to the proposed 1100 East extension to the Sugarhouse Streetcar line. 1100 East between 1700 So and 2700 So is already extremely crowded and narrow. The streetcar line would likely require either more space in the right of way (difficult because the businesses are built very close to the street) or totally eliminating all parking (which would negatively impact businesses, patrons, and surrounding residences). The construction time would probably kill any businesses along that routes as they are very small specialty businesses. Westminster students may love you for a brief time, but they are temporary residents and there is already a bus that regularly serves that route. I favor one of the routes that goes nearly directly east from the current terminus. These will open transportation to unserved areas, provide better access to Sugarhouse Park, coincide with proposed bike access and extension of the bike trails, provide better access to high school students (more of them with fewer transportation options than college students), and not kill more businesses in the delightfully local center of Sugarhouse. Two more points: It is foolish to place a terminus on the property of the church east of 1700 E on 2100 S. Why invest the extra money at this time to cross another intersection just to end on the other side of the road? Please remember in your planning that public transportation should serve more than commuters. It also needs to be a well planned system for all citizens who go to more than just the center of the city. Thank you for your service to our city. Charlene Durham
Alan Banks
we should put our energy and $ into improving the walkability of the sugarhouse area. A multi‐
million dollar project that would inevitably block traffic, suspend local business and run a short distance, should be re‐considered. the allure of the area is it's walkability. I live above 1700 east, and frequently walk through the park to the library and shopping areas. putting our energy into a walking and bike‐friendly sugarhouse, would surely be a less expensive alternative that would draw locals and tourists alike to the area. We should take our examples from walkable areas in cities like Burlington Vt. and Denver Co.. Cities that have gone as far as blocking off streets to traffic altogether, creating pedestrian‐friendly areas that draw people in.
Paul Sharp
11th East is an insane choice for a streetcar! Already, trying to drive to the post office is a nightmare. And we definitely won't be riding that antiquated piece of junk called a streetcar. Your "open houses" are just excuses that to claim you got public input, and don't do any real good. You wouldn't even be wasting time with the whole idiotic idea of "streetcars" in the first place if national taxpayers weren't busidizing it by "grants." That's how economically unrealistic they are.
stephanie piani
As a member of this community who uses public transportation almost everyday to/from work, I do not like the proposed route on 1100 east (between 2100 to 1700 south). I believe it is not an effective use of our resources for such a short distance when there is a bus line that goes within this area. I believe it is also within walking distance from the central area of Sugarhouse when you consider that Sugarhouse goes in the other direction a few blocks south of 2100 where other businesses are located. Please vote "no" to this extension. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Dominik Christensen
y y
discussion surrounding the Sugarhouse Streetcar line. I feel that there is a major opportunity for advancement of the Sugarhouse streetcar that has received little to no mention anywhere in the media, council discussions, or community feedback sessions. I have a suggestion for the Council to consider. Instead of choosing 1100 East or continuing the Streetcar up 2100 South ‐ why not run the line north on 1300 East? 1300 East may be a busy street already but the opportunity to revamp (including upgrading 1300 East to Flex Lanes‐like on 5400 South in Taylorsville‐to help accommodate increased traffic flows in the morning & evenings)the already congested 1300 East. By continuing the Streetcar line East on Sugarmont Drive, further East on Wilmington Avenue eventually turning North on 1300 East at the intersection of Wilmington Ave and 1300 East ‐ the line would then go north on 1300 East linking up to the existing Trax Red Line at the intersection of 500 South and 1300 East near the University of Utah. The reason why I feel the urge to submit my public comment is that I feel the battle over the 11th East, 21st South options has been in bad taste and quite silly. The Streetcar line would not directly serve any function on 1100 East or 2100 South ‐ except to cause increased congestion in an already dense area. I have also discussed with individuals in and around the area that would be affected and have received warm consideration to my proposal ‐ making me feel encouraged to write to you. The 1300 East option is something that has not been mentioned or even proposed as far as I am aware and I believe that the 1300 East option would provide patrons of the line with the greatest access to community locations such as Westminster College, the businesses around 2100 & 13th, the former Granite block, Sugarhouse Park and most importantly it would directly link two of the nations sterling educational institutions. The University of Utah and Westminster College allowing students, professors, employees, etc the opportunity to ditch their vehicles for the easy to use streetcar. In addition to providing ease of access to all these local gatherings the 1300 East option would tie in perfectly to the existing infrastructure linking the Trax Red line with the Sugarhouse streetcar the UTA Front Runner and any future expansions of streetcar systems in the city. Thank you for considering this alternative‐alternative‐alternative proposal for the wonderful (and exciting) expansion of Utah's transit system. ‐‐ Concerned & Hopefully helpful citizen. Dominik Christensen
Particia Callahan
I appreciate info on the Sugarhouse streetcar; however, all the emails I have received from you provide only ONE side of the story‐‐the pros of the 1100 East option. I know many residents, including me, are opposed to putting the streetcar on 1100 East. It seems to me you would be better serving your constituents if you provided both the pros and the cons of such a decision, so folks could be truly informed.
Spenser Bowen
I would like to voice my opinion about NOT allowing the street car be built and placed on 2100 south. It would decimate the community and it is NOT needed. The buses are great. Please consider this. Thank you!
Jill and Gavin Anderson
Please DO NOT vote to extend the streetcar any further into Sugarhouse. The Sugarhouse community showed up in full force at the community council meeting to let them know we DO NOT want any streetcars on our already busy streets. The rails will not help businesses (take up parking and make it harder to maneuver around the trolley to get into businesses). Definitely, DO NOT send the trolley up 2100 South because it affects three schools and there is no logical destination to which the trolley needs to carry people. Please let's just see how the first phase goes ‐‐ how many actually use it, how much it disrupts normal traffic, etc. IT needs more study and should not be rushed into. Federal financing doesn't cover the actual cost of running it, so there should not be a rush to do it just because federal money may be available now. Thanks for your consideration of those who will have to live and work around the rails and streetcar! Jill Anderson Sugarhouse resident
Barb Shelley
Dear City Council, This is my third time to write to you. PLEASE do not tear up poor little, narrow 1100 East and add a street car. It’s a terrible location for a streetcar. The streetcar will just add more confusion. We have lost so much of the charm in downtown Sugar House with the tearing down of most of the historic business district along 2100 South and 1100 East. That area is an eyesore now, and it’s terrible that we lost so many small businesses. Let’s not add more confusion by the monument on 2100 South. And while I am at it, I am stunned at how many apartment buildings have been built along 2100 South in the downtown area. We already have a lot of rental property north of 2100 South. Congestion and instability now mar that part of town. At this rate, Sugar House will become a terrible place to live. If it is necessary to run the streetcar north and south, please consider 900 East or 700 East.
Nicole Hanna
I personally think the streetcar is a WONDERFUL idea. I would LOVE to be able to hop on it and go into Sugarhouse on a regular basis. Parking in Sugarhouse is currently a challenge, especially with a car load of kids. I live right by 1300 South and so would have only a short walk. The streetcar would also INCREASE property values, rather than decrease them, which I am all for. Also, I would like to see it extended to 9th and 9th (or at least 9th south and 8th east) to connect the two communities even more. I really do not understand the opposition to this proposal. I would, however, object to light rail being put in along 11th East, since I agree that it would prevent an easy flow of traffic.
Scott Sloan
Councilman, First, allow me to thank you for the informative and detailed letter I received with regards to this project. I was unable to attend the meeting, but wanted to relay a few thoughts. The idea of going to 1300 East seems the best solution for the long term growth of the east side. As you stated, buses can serve the north/south corridors along 700, 1100, and 1300 East. An underground section under 1300 E would be expensive, but ideal. I have heard, and my information may be inaccurate, that development limitations prevent high rise growth along the spur. It’s my understanding that this is limited to three stories. While I don’t want to see 30 story buildings, I think that a reasonable level of height (akin to the apartment tower by State and 2100) would benefit the project by allowing for more urbanized growth and population density. Let’s build the population up, leaving more open space for all. Finally, I love the idea of the green scape corridor along the line. If imminent domain is needed to recapture some space that is currently occupied by the run‐down buildings and warehouses along the line I urge you to fund those purchases. Ultimately I believe the goal should be to take this from the Jordan River up to the trail at Parley’s.
Mary House
I am concerned about the trolley extension. I am in favor of bringing the trolley to Highland Dr. at Sugarmont and see if anyone rides it. Then decide where to go from there, if anywhere. The worst possible route would be 11th East. Has anyone seriously looked at the intersection of 11th East and 21st South. Where would the power lines go? Another thing, I only see one track ....How does that work. One train at a time or at most two? I have lived in Sugarhouse since 1982. When we lived on the east side of 13th East it was almost impossibe to get across 13th East. If we want to make Surgarhouse a real walkable neighborhood, why not make it easier to walk in the neighborhood? Adding another form of transportation only makes more congestion. There is already a bus line on Highland, 13th East and 21st South.
Mary House
I am concerned about the trolley extension. I am in favor of bringing the trolley to Highland Dr. at Sugarmont and see if anyone rides it. Then decide where to go from there, if anywhere. The worst possible route would be 11th East. Has anyone seriously looked at the intersection of 11th East and 21st South. Where would the power lines go? Another thing, I only see one track ....How does that work. One train at a time or at most two? I have lived in Sugarhouse since 1982. When we lived on the east side of 13th East it was almost impossibe to get across 13th East. If we want to make Surgarhouse a real walkable neighborhood, why not make it easier to walk in the neighborhood? Adding another form of transportation only makes more congestion. There is already a bus line on Highland, 13th East and 21st South.
Noreen McDonald
The 1100 East corridor is too narrow and businesses would be too heavily impacted by construction for a streetcar that only goes FOUR BLOCKS. Really, most people can walk that far and, if they can't, 1100 East has excellent bus service. Pollution‐wise, business‐wise, destination‐wise, a streetcar in a more heavily‐used corridor would make a lot more sense. Why not have the streetcar continue up 2100 South to Sugar House Park and Highland High School? Eventually, it would be totally reasonable for a 2100 South streetcar to hook up with Foothill Boulevard and continue north to the U. I sent out emails to all city council members and the mayor‐‐to date, I have only heard from Soren Simonsen and Charlie Luke, both of whom (happily!) agree with me. Please consider their reasoning and the desires of the populace of Sugar House. Though a life‐long Democrat, I will not support any future city council or mayoral candidate who votes to put a streetcar on 1100 East.
Steve Hurlbut
I am writing to support the 2100 South extension of the streetcar, and to oppose the 1100 East option. I have lived in the Avenues since 1994, and I have been a professor of Managment at Westminster College since 1998. I am not writing on behalf of Westminster, and I do not know if Westminster has an "official" position on this issue. My biggest concern is for the small businesses on 1100 East. I am a semi‐regular customer at several, including the Central Book Exchange, The Soup Kitchen, and Fiddler's Elbow. My understanding is that they do not think they will survive the construction phase of the project. I am guessing they are correct, as I have great respect for all small businesses, and I dobut they would advocate against their best interests. Furthermore, I do think 2100 South is the better option. Sugarhouse Park and Highland HS are far more important (short term) destinations than the corner of 100 East and 1700 South. The center of Westminster College is about 1850 south and 1250 East, so the walk from either route to most Westminster classes is about the same. In fact, most of the residence halls at Westminster are closer to the main Sugarhouse intersection than to the old costume store on 1700 South. Also, in the long term, continuing the line to Foothill would probably relieve more traffic than continuing the line to 9th and 9th. Finally, you have a choice between two routes. I have yet to hear any opposition to the 2100 South line, and much opposition to the 1100 East option. Why not pick the choice that many favor, and that no one opposes? Thank you for considering my point of view.
Bill Holt
I want to be on record as opposing any extension of the Phase 1 extension of the Sugarhouse Streetcar product. Please, city council, delay your vote until all the proper impact studies have been done, and the voice of the Sugarhouse residents have been fully heard in this matter. We don't need another collosal waste of taxpayer money!
Maxine Babalis
There was talk about making a walkway beneath 13th East. If that's still a plan, why not make it wider and run the streetcar parallel to it, then up the edge of the park to 17th East. That's where the traffic begins to thin out. That would service HIghland High and the park and might even be the novelty that would attract tourists to the area. Just a thought. 11th East is a very bad idea. It's crowded, and it goes nowhere useful. Get a masterplan first, then decide where to tie up busy streets!
Ben Burdett
As I have observed the present fray over the future of the Sugar House Streetcar, I've begun to realize that this is quite a divisive issue. I think that if the City Council wants to push forward with a vote on where the streetcar tracks should go, they need to consider the timing of taking a vote at this time. Why should we even be worrying about where the tracks will go when we don't even know if and or when such an expansion will ever take place? Taking a vote on such an issue at the present time is quite shortsighted. All it will do is anger about 50% of the residents of Sugar House regardless of the outcome of the vote; and will accomplish very little in terms of what the real needs will be at the time the actual expansion takes place. What's wrong with waiting, and studying all the alternatives a little more? The residents of Sugar House already feel as though this thing is being pushed too fast, and not meaning for this to be too much of a pun, they feel they are being "railroaded" into making some decisions that no body is really ready to make at present. The City Council can best serve the citizens of the Sugar House area by putting off a recommendation favoring any specific alternative until further studies and citizen education takes place
Laura Gray
Hi I live at 1052 Yale right below 1100 east and I oppose that route. 1100 east is too narrow and the overhead lines would be ugly and hurt the trees. Busses are fine. Why a streetcar? Laura gray
Katherine Ashworth
Dear Council Members, I agree with those who feel we should not have the Streetcar on 1100 East. The street is quiet and residential near 1700 So., and then becomes narrower and busier as it nears 2100 So. It seems like the Streetcar would disrupt the quiet near the 1700 So. end and then add to the congestion near 2100 So. to no useful purpose. I agree with the idea that it would disrupt traffic, create safety hazards and harm businesses during construction. I also agree with the idea that ending the line at 1700 So. creates "a Streetcar to nowhere." Thank you.
Mark Cook
Please don't bring more commercial or public transportation east of 11th East in Sugarhouse! Please keep residents the focus of governing our residential areas!! We don't want the cars or trollies. Mark Cook 801‐466‐5608
KR Rice
From: Kathleen Rice [mailto:krrice@xmission.com] Sent: Saturday, May 04, 2013 12:06 PM To: Council Comments Subject: Trolley ‐ would like more details. How can I learn more details about the proposed Sugarhouse Trolley Routes? ‐ for instance, what are your findings and how did you come up with your recommendations ? ‐ I would like to go with your proposals because you have studied this but I haven't found many details.
Betty Schoeffler
It makes absolutely no sense to run a street car north on 1100 East, a narrow, neighborhood street lined with small businesses. It's well‐served by a bus (to make it more convenient, just have UTA run it more often). Also, to reduce traffic further by adding a street car line would make it extremely difficult to get to Sugar House from the north by car (which, sorry to say, people still use). A street car east would be a great way to access beautiful Sugar House Park, Highland High, and the little pocket businesses along the way.
Betty Schoeffler
It makes absolutely no sense to run a street car north on 1100 East, a narrow, neighborhood street lined with small businesses. It's well‐served by a bus (to make it more convenient, just have UTA run it more often). Also, to reduce traffic further by adding a street car line would make it extremely difficult to get to Sugar House from the north by car (which, sorry to say, people still use). A street car east would be a great way to access beautiful Sugar House Park, Highland High, and the little pocket businesses along the way.
Jill Thomas
Mayor Becker needs to explain the need, route, and cost of the trolley.
Nick Thomas
We say NO to a Sugar House trolley ‐ no matter what the route ‐ until Mayor Becker and the city council explain the NEED, PURPOSE, COST and IMPACT of a trolley in Sugar House.
Danny Clyne
Following is a reply to the George Chapman's editorial appearing in the Sunday, May 5 SL Tribune: Thank you Mr. Chapman for making a very valid point regarding the proposed Sugar House Streetcar line. The TRAX extension from the Central Pointe TRAX Station to the east has its terminus at the planned McClelland Station. Those wishing to travel beyond that point to Sugar House Park can do so by walking there. The distance from this terminus to Sugar House Park is just as walkable as it is to Westminster College. A tunnel is being constructed under 1300 East specifically allowing pedestrian traffic in to the park. Most residents and business owners in the Sugar House area don’t want the streetcar anywhere, which is vehemently being communicated. They don’t want it running along 1100 East and they don’t want it running up 2100 South. They don’t want unsightly poles and cables obscuring the beautiful view of the mountains. In a day and age where nearly 70% of the population in this country is considered to be overweight or obese, it would do everyone some good to walk more; especially in a walkable community which is Sugar House. In the end, what everyone needs to do, is get off their TRAXs and walk.
Clare Hunter
Do NOT put the Street car sown 2100 South. The Form Based Zoning that goes automatically with with the rails is not desired by the residence in the area. DO NOT push commercial areas and high density in this part of town, it is NOT WANTED. You are trying to slip zoning changes by the people in the area at the behest of the developers. Listen to the residents in the specific areas and develop a city wide transportation plan first, then see where the street car fits in to the plan.
Barbara Sparks
Lives along 1100 East near proposed streetcar line. She is very opposed to having the streetcar on 1100 East.
Danny Clyne
Dear Mr. Luke, Following is a reply to the George Chapman's editorial appearing in the Sunday, May 5 SL Tribune: Thank you Mr. Chapman for making a very valid point regarding the proposed Sugar House Streetcar line. The TRAX extension from the Central Pointe TRAX Station to the east has its terminus at the planned McClelland Station. Those wishing to travel beyond that point to Sugar House Park can do so by walking there. The distance from this terminus to Sugar House Park is just as walkable as it is to Westminster College. A tunnel is being constructed under 1300 East specifically allowing pedestrian traffic in to the park. Most residents and business owners in the Sugar House area don’t want the streetcar anywhere, which is vehemently being communicated. They don’t want it running along 1100 East and they don’t want it running up 2100 South. They don’t want unsightly poles and cables obscuring the beautiful view of the mountains. In a day and age where nearly 70% of the population in this country is considered to be overweight or obese, it would do everyone some good to walk more; especially in a walkable community which is Sugar House. In the end, what everyone needs to do, is get off their TRAXs and walk.
Danny Clyne
Dear Mr. Luke, Please vote NO for ANY streetcar. I don't want all the impatient drivers that will not want to share the road with a streetcar diverting through my neighborhood on a daily basis. Has anyone considered this? We residents have.
Jason Stevenson
Dear Councilwoman Love, Hi ‐ this is Jason Stevenson, from Historic Gilmer and ELPCO. Ahead of Tuesday's city council vote on the Sugar House streetcar phase 2 route, I want to let you know that I support the city's preferred alternative of 1100 East. Here are five reasons why: 1‐The current calm traffic conditions on 1100 East are better suited for a slow‐moving streetcar than 2100 South, 1300 East, or Foothill Drive, where traffic moves twice as fast, and a streetcar would not make sense. A streetcar is not a bullet train‐‐‐it's a streetcar. 2‐Only the 1100 route offers an eventual connection to 9th and 9th and the 400 South TRAX line‐‐creating a public transport loop through the heart of Sugar House. 3‐I am an avid cyclist. I bike commute to Sugar House, the U. and downtown. The prospect of catching a bike wheel in the streetcar track does not worry me. Cyclists in SLC are already aware of this hazard because of the TRAX lines‐‐and it is a very rare occurrence anyway. 4‐Even though I'm an avid cyclist, I support the streetcar because cycling is not always the best mode of transport. For instance, my parents do not ride bikes anymore. But we could all ride a streetcar downtown to the library or a restaurant. 5‐The transportation studies support the 1100 route based on numerous empirical measures Please feel free to use these statements during Tuesday's city council meeting. Although do note that I am speaking for myself only, not for Historic Gilmer or ELPCO. Thank you, Jason Stevenson ‐‐
Kara Hurst
Please do NOT put the Sugar House Streetcar up 11th East. That is a quiet, narrow, and pleasant street ‐ do not ruin it! I suggest putting the Street Car up 2100 South ‐ a wider street and the businesses on that street want the street car.
Zac Webster
I have been living in sugar house for almost 34 years and I am very happy about the streetcar going North on 1100 East. I would very much like to see it connect with the University Trax line in the future. Thank you for reading my comments.
Bruce R. Baird
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interested, mindless and repetitive nature of most of the comments made at public meeting. I know that you get more of these messages than you likely ever read. I also, generally, respect the professionals that give you guidance on complicated technical issues. However, a long‐term planning decision like the future route of the proposed Sugarhouse Streetcar extension in an area where I live and work is something I feel a need to comment on. Especially since I think that you are about to make a potentially huge mistake. First, the inevitable bona fides. I live and work in Sugarhouse and have done so for the last 20 years. I drive (in a Prius) both 1100 East and 2100 South between 1700 East and 1100 East an average of twice per day. I have used streetcars in San Francisco, New Orleans, Vancouver, Toronto, Amsterdam and Milan. My work specializes in real estate development often involving transportation issues. I have also spent a considerable amount of time online researching this question Except in major, long‐established cities, the most common phrase that pops up in discussion of historic and modern streetcar lines is that a line “runs from [a notable place] to [another notable place]â€. That phrase would not be true of the 1100 North extension unless you count Finn’s Restaurant (which is really nice by the way as I am sure many of you know) as a northerly destination. Anyone who tries to tell you that the line runs to Westminster does not understand transportation. No one will take a bus or Trax or Front Runner to the Streetcar to 1700 South and then walk to Westminster. Research shows that it is almost impossible to get Americans to make more than two changes of modes of transportation and devilishly hard to get them to make even two. 1100 East is far too narrow to use for a Streetcar line. At peak times the 1100 E 2100 S intersection is close to failure now (yes, I know that some of that is caused by finally filling the Sugarhole with a nice project). A 2100 South extension eastward, however, does go to “somewhereâ€; either the Park or Highland High. Also, 2100 South is wide enough to accommodate a Streetcar. As to those who say that 2100 South is not a “pedestrian friendly†street I would point them to successful streetcars such as the E/F line on broad, busy thoroughfares such as Market Street in San Francisco. Also, much of the streetcar system in Amsterdam and Milan runs on wide, crowded roads. Even better than choosing the 2100 South alignment would be to postpone this decision pending the long‐term transportation plan in the next few years which would Peggy Anderson
Hi Ed, I do not want a streetcar along 1100 East! I am a citizen. I voted for Ralph Becker and he should represent me. Do the people's opinions count in this decision? Here is why I support other options besides 1100 EAST: • It is narrow and mostly small business owners, PO, to the cupcake shop • It is mostly residential beyond 1700 East ‐ a streetcar lowers home values • There is no destination or park and ride option at 7‐11 ‐ ONLY hotdogs, salt, sugar, and beer. • A "Just do it because we have the money" doesn't show any planning or foresight. I support option B3 ‐ although I am sympathetic to those businesses along 2100 East that will be severly impacted by construction. Wilmington isn't a very busy street now, it would make sense to take the trax line up this street ‐ into the park‐ and then up 2100. People and streetcars create accidents. Adding to the congestion of an already congested intersection/pedestrian crossing zone isn't a good idea. I think your money would be best spent going up 2100 East. The 21‐21 business shopping area would welcome a stop ‐ plus if you extended it into the huge Walmart parking lot you could have a destination and a place for people living south (Draper) and east (Park city) of there to park their cars and still get into the city, without adding to the summer and winter pollution.
Jennifer Fraser Parrish
Dear City Council Member, I write to voice my opposition to the proposal to run the Sugar House street car down 1100 East to 1700 South, for many of the same reasons already stated by so many other citizens. First, there is simply no room for the street car in the narrow corridor north of 2100 South, and from what I understand, the businesses in that corridor are not in favor of the proposal because they fear that they will not survive the construction. While the streetcar may bring new business after completion, that same goal could be accomplished by having the streetcar nearby, but not actually in the corridor. Second, while I understand the proposal might benefit the students and staff of Westminster, I believe that a greater and more diverse portion of the residents of Salt Lake City will be served by the alternative route proposals. Finally, this is (obviously) a very costly project. It seems that in the future, a line that is already headed toward the East bench will better accommodate expansion. I live right in the heart of Sugar House on 2204 South 1000 East. The current end of the streetcar on McClelland is mere feet from my front door. I have been very patient with all the changes and construction just next to my house, including because I see a rationale for extending the rail system east to Sugar House. However, the proposal to send the line down 1100 East just doesn’t make sense. Please vote against the proposal to send the Sugar House street car down 1100 East to 1700 South.
Lex Hemphill
Dear Councilman Luke, As late as I am in submitting my comment on the Sugar House Streetcar Phase II issue that you will consider today, that is how premature I believe the City is in insisting on choosing a streetcar route (either 11th East or 21st South) before a transportation master plan is completed. I am not in favor of either proposed alignment, and I hope you choose to hold such a decision until after the study is completed. I disagree with the Salt Lake Tribune editorial of 10 days ago, in which the argument seemed to be that the prospect of federal dollars dictates a trigger decision now. That is a cart‐before‐the‐horse argument that fails logic. It also seems especially specious now, given the level of public opposition to both proposed alignments. It is sad that the City’s “public outreach†effort has managed to pit Sugar House residents in the 11th East area against those in the 21st South area, as if foisting the unwanted streetcar on the other guys would save them from having it in their own neighborhood. Given the tenor of comments at the April 23 City Council meeting and at the May 1 Sugar House Community Council meeting, it would be fair to say that Sugar House residents oppose both proposed streetcar alternatives. One more note: In the neighborhood infighting created by this issue, one argument for choosing the 21st South alternative is that it would serve Sugar House Park users. Please don’t be fooled by this claim. One of the primary issues before the Sugar House Park Authority board over the last decade has been the Parley’s Trail plan that would create the Draw, allowing access to the Park, under 13th East, from the Sugar House business district. So, wherever the Phase I streetcar line ends in the Highland Drive/21st South area, riders will easily be able to access the park on foot, through Hidden Hollow and the Draw. They will not need a 21st South streetcar to get there. Pedestrian access to the Park was the point of the Draw. Thank you for your attention and consideration.
Bill Holt
Hello Charlie, I am a resident of the district in which you serve. As you probably know, there has been a large effort to inform the Sugarhouse residents of the proposed Streetcar extension. I would like to go on record as one who opposes any extension from the Phase 1 termination point. There is no need for it, and existing transportation solutions can be used more efficiently to meet the growing needs in the area. I strongly encourage you, and the rest of the city council, to delay any vote on this issue, until more thorough evidence has been presented, the proper impact studies have been done, and the affected residents of Sugarhouse have been given a full voice in this matter.
Jill and Gavin anderson
I just read in the paper that you are in favor of bringing the streetcar up 2100 South to 1700 East. WHY????? Now I know why your response to me (see below) was so vague, whereas Soren actually replied with interesting information. IF you do vote for an extended streetcar, which you should not if you are representing your neighborhood constituents, please give me one good reason to bring it into a residential area where it is not needed and will create so many problems with Highland students (the majority of which will not use the trolley and will be trying get around it as inexperienced drivers). What are you thinking? Your responses to the Walmart issue made so much sense and that is why I was excited to vote for you, but choosing to run the trolley up 2100 South makes no sense, so please let me know why you would do that!
Sheila Pryor
Dear Councilperson Luke: I am a frequent (daily) user of public transportation that is on 2100 S and the other cross‐secting streets in the main sugarhouse area. I have been reading and listening to the arguements concerning the path the street car might take. It is logical that is should transverse 1100 E. Instead of being a deterrent to business transactions, the 1100 E path should, instead, be a boon to business'. There is a healthy 'ally' system already in place for 1100 E. That could be improved for residents and business', including the USPS. Having the street car transverse from the pool area to 400 South would cause the area lying next to Barnes & Noble to be a walking area, which, I understand, is one of the goals for the Sugar House area, now being considered. The other walking area would be the next few blocks adjacent to the USPS, which, I frequently walk. Would traffic be congested? I think not. Those in automobiles would use a different route or routes to accomplish their end destinations. Would traffic then be thrown on adjacent streets? Not with careful planning by the City Council. Sincerely, Sheila Pryor 1837 E Kensington Ave SLC
Cynthia Walkenhorst
Here's a thought....how about the city using the money for this project and pay for our home and contents to be restored. We're still waiting for the city to approve our home being done from the sewage backup on 2100 S. and Wilmington, almost 2 months ago! Does anyone remember when an accident shut down I‐80 not long ago and all the traffic was diverted to 2100 S? Probably not, because you don't live on the street. How about the 4 accidents within the past 2 1/2 years on 20th E. and 2100 S., 3 of which came up on our property? We had 3ft. of our privacy shrubs taken out. It is a very conjested main thoroughfare and I can't imagine it with 2 lanes less! We've lived here for 24 years, going through many changes. We have seen crime rise drastically, not to mention dristruction of property with foot traffic increasing through the neighborhood. We don't need any more! Please preserve the good that we still have. I guaranty if you lived on 21st S. you would NEVER want a trolley invading your street!
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Jennifer and Tyson Linford
incredibly concerned about having a streetcar in Sugarhouse on 1100 East , but we are far more concerned about a line running up 21st South. For the following reasons we are OPPOSED to a streetcar line on 2100 South. 1. 1. 2100 South is the main road out of our neighborhood. It is our main thoroughfare to I‐80 and I‐215, really to anywhere in the city. Generally, it runs pretty smoothly with the 2 lanes of traffic in both directions. However during peak hours, like morning and afternoon commute, it is congested enough that it can be difficult to cross without a trolley line! 2. 2. I commute each morning to Bountiful via I‐80. Many mornings it takes me 2 to 3 lights to get through the double turn lane from 2100 S. to 1300 E. Before you decide to run a trolley line up 2100 S., sit and watch the traffic in the morning, at lunch, and in the afternoon. That would create a complete mess at an already busy intersection! Not just a mess, it would be a complete nightmare! 3. 3. There is no need for a trolley on 2100 S. It is not a destination stop. It is the main thoroughfare to quiet neighborhoods. We don’t need the noise and congestion that it will create on our streets. 4. 4. It is naÃˉve to think that people on the east side will give up their cars to ride a trolley line to connect to a trax line to get downtown. Our east side neighborhood is well serviced by bus lines to the University of Utah and downtown, not to mention one of the main bus lines runs down 2100 South. We don’t need a streetcar! 5. 5. In an effort to make our areas more biker/green friendly, aesthetically pleasing, commuter friendly, etc. the city tried to ‘improve’ Guardsman Way a few years ago. They took a street with steady traffic, like 2100 S., that had 2 lanes in each direction, also like 2100 S, and took out two of the lanes in favor of large median and bike lanes. Well, it didn’t help anything! It made my 10 minute drive to the University of Utah a 20 minute drive because I was backed up in a single lane of traffic. It did exactly the opposite of making it ‘be er.’ Now there are the same amount of cars using the narrower street, which means that they are idling longer and creating more pollution. I foresee the same thing happening on 2100 S. That defeats the entire argument that a streetcar will reduce car emissions and help with our pollution issue! BALONEY! It will just further snarl traffic and leave the same amount of cars idling longer! 6. 6. Many of our neighbors just had the city sewer line back up into their homes, destroying their possessions and structures. Why is the city WASTING money on a trolley line that no one will Janae Wallace
Hello councilman Luke, I am writing to voice my opinion on the future location of the sugarhouse street car. I prefer the 21st south extension on that wider street. I ride my bike for commuting and worry about the narrow road on 11th east and the potential hazards that could exist with having a street car on that quiet road. Also, in the future, I'd like to see an eventual connection from a 21st south line to meet Foothill Blvd, as we own a home right off Foothill (1376 south 2200 east is our address). Thanks for your time,
Ken Jameson
Mr. Luke: I haven't paid too much attention to the extension debate until a week or two ago. But in looking at the options, I really can't fathom how the extension along 11th East makes any sense. It goes nowhere and will cause havoc on that street. So I would hope that you will vote for the 21st South extension if it comes to a vote.
Susan Murray
Mr Luke, I apparently am no longer in your city council district, but since I am one of the individuals who voted to elect you originally, I felt I had justification to write to you as well as my current city council rep. Just want to express my opinion that there should not be any further expansion of the streetcar line beyond what is already under construction. I am not in favor of further urbanization of Sugarhouse. There have been many housing projects approved and under construction. There are businesses being developed in a small area. We are already being heavily impacted by this development, don't then force us away from our own home‐town area by impacting traffic flow more. Don't send me to Millcreek or downtown to do my shopping, etc. I have yet to hear how much it will cost to ride the streetcar line. With a one‐way fare on UTA at $2.50, I don't see riding the streetcar as a regular alternative for me especially when the time factor is added in. There has been some comment about Westminster students wanting to ride to school. Since there are currently bus lines which run on 1300, 1100 and 900 East as well as 2100 and 1700 South, I fail to see how that would even enter into consideration as a need, and likewise I don't see how the city can consider the streetcar a need. This is a case of "if it's not broke, don't fix it." Let's not throw tax money, time, effort and the success of current businesses out in favor of something that will bring it's own set of problems. Please make your vote a "NO" vote on expanding the streetcar line beyond the current area where there is already a right‐of‐way for it. Stop it before we expend more money that our government doesn't have to spend!
Lacey Bruschke and Brad Bruschke
Opposed on the streetcar altoghether. Buses are less expensive and more practical use of space. The lanes on both routes will negitively effect the surrounding area.
Susan Tynes
opposed to the 2100 south streetcar route.
David Croft
Not enough business on 2100 South. All the homes real estate value will go down. Traffic is already really bad on 2100 South. It is already so congested at all. Safety for children. People will drive into a neighborhood to avoid 2100 South.
Jill VanLeeuwen
Opposed to the 2100 South streetcar route. It would be detrimental to the neighborhood. It is dangerous to all school going children. Going from 4 lanes to 2 lanes is not a good idea the area is already congested as is.
Annika Cook
Strongly opposed to the streetcar route 2100 South. The crime rate will go up significantly. Childrens safety in walking to school will be compromised. The streetcar will bring in a whole different crowd into the neighborhood.
Mark Cook
Opposed to the 2100 South streetcar route. The majority of my neighborhood is against this route.
Melisa & Scott Romney
We are opposed to the 2100 South streetcar route. It is dangerous to the school going kids. It will be impossible for them to cross the street without getting hurt. The area is too much traffic in the area as is.
Amy Rigby
My biggest concern is about the saftey ofmy children awlking to school With the train it would be woree than it already is. We have been working so hard on making our community coercive between working withone side of 2100 south and the other, the train would be like a wall. I think the train would segregate the two sides of the community. I personally drive carpools all afternoon, and I would not ride the train or send my children on the train. So I think it'll still be just as busy but only with one lane of traffic.
Lex Hemphill
Dear Jill, I know that you are on record as supporting the 11th East alternative on the Sugar House Streetcar Phase II issue that you will consider today. Still, you are my City Council representative, and I would like to express to you my feeling that it is premature for the City to insist on choosing a streetcar route (either 11th East or 21st South) before a transportation master plan is completed. I am not in favor of either proposed alignment, and I hope you will consider this viewpoint before voting today. I disagree with the Salt Lake Tribune editorial of 10 days ago, in which the argument seemed to be that the prospect of federal dollars dictates a trigger decision now. That is a cart‐
before‐the‐horse argument that fails logic. It also seems especially specious now, given the level of public opposition to both proposed alignments. It is sad that the City’s “public outreach†effort has managed to pit Sugar House residents in the 11th East area against those in the 21st South area, as if foisting the unwanted streetcar on the other guys would save them from having it in their own neighborhood. Given the tenor of comments at the April 23 City Council meeting and at the May 1 Sugar House Community Council meeting, it would be fair to say that Sugar House residents oppose both proposed streetcar alternatives. One more note: In the neighborhood infighting created by this issue, one argument for choosing the 21st South alternative is that it would serve Sugar House Park users. Please don’t be fooled by this claim. One of the primary issues before the Sugar House Park Authority board over the last decade has been the Parley’s Trail plan that would create the Draw, allowing access to the Park, under 13th East, from the Sugar House business district. So, wherever the Phase I streetcar line ends in the Highland Drive/21st South area, riders will easily be able to access the park on foot, through Hidden Hollow and the Draw. They will not need a 21st South streetcar to get there. Pedestrian access to the Park was the point of the Draw. Thank you for your attention, and thank you for representing us in District Five. I know these are difficult issues.
Wendy Carrigan
Opposed all together. • Really opposed to street car • Damaging to neighborhood • Dangerous for the kids who cross the street to go to school, Dillworth & Highland
Brent Verhaaren
Hi Jill: Thanks again for your responsiveness and help. I spent some time talking with neighbors, ready as much as I could (the memo/briefing to the council from March was really insightful), and thinking through all the possibilities. In the long run, it seems like the City made good faith efforts to reach out to the community. In my opinion, the failure is probably with the Sugar House Community Council and the fact that we as residents aren't involved enough in it. That's a whole other issue in and of itself. That said, I think that now that people are becoming aware of the issue, they're pretty adamant about the route not going down 11th. It's my hope that the Council will decide to provide more time, which will hopefully allow for more awareness and education and community feedback. I'm aware that is probably a frustrating request when the city has made a good faith effort to get the community involved. It reminds me of when we spend a lot of time letting our Sales team know about marketing campaigns we're working on and executing, and then they come complaining later that they didn't know about them. I admit that in these situations, I think, "What more do you want? Try paying attention sometime!" But, I've found that when I ask them about the best ways to inform them, I get valuable insight into how to work with them in the future. Of course, changing and adjusting doesn't always work and there are some that it wouldn't matter what you do, they just don't get it. But often, we find legitimate gaps in our communication efforts and/or ways to improve. It's my sincere belief that for whatever reason, the community and my neighborhood as a whole just never got a whiff of what was going on until a few weeks ago. That's certainly our problem, "our bad," but I hope that in the spirit of how crucial it is to get this transit plan right, that you and the council will give us more time. A few of us here are in the process of moving from years of talking about organizing a neighborhood association to finally doing it. When we have that in place, we'd love to have you come and address us and provide input if you're willing. Thanks again for your time. I know it's precious, and I imagine that tomorrow it will become even more so.
Dennis Van Leeuwen
Street is far to busy, far to busy, very congested in morning and evening Street not large enough for a two way track system No one has demonstrated why the tracks need to go that far east From 1300 east and up, gets into residential no businesses
Laura Gray
Hi Jill. Thanks for your responses you emails. My opinion on 1100 east as a person living half a block from it is summarized well by George Chapman in the trib. I have been worried about impact on biking and know from personal experience in Geneva how bad tracks are for bikes. Thanks for all you do. Laura Gray
Bruce Baird
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interested, mindless and repetitive nature of most of the comments made at public meeting. I know that you get more of these messages than you likely ever read. I also, generally, respect the professionals that give you guidance on complicated technical issues. However, a long‐term planning decision like the future route of the proposed Sugarhouse Streetcar extension in an area where I live and work is something I feel a need to comment on. Especially since I think that you are about to make a potentially huge mistake. First, the inevitable bona fides. I live and work in Sugarhouse and have done so for the last 20 years. I drive (in a Prius) both 1100 East and 2100 South between 1700 East and 1100 East an average of twice per day. I have used streetcars in San Francisco, New Orleans, Vancouver, Toronto, Amsterdam and Milan. My work specializes in real estate development often involving transportation issues. I have also spent a considerable amount of time online researching this question Except in major, long‐established cities, the most common phrase that pops up in discussion of historic and modern streetcar lines is that a line “runs from [a notable place] to [another notable place]â€. That phrase would not be true of the 1100 North extension unless you count Finn’s Restaurant (which is really nice by the way as I am sure many of you know) as a northerly destination. Anyone who tries to tell you that the line runs to Westminster does not understand transportation. No one will take a bus or Trax or Front Runner to the Streetcar to 170o South and then walk to Westminster. Research shows that it is almost impossible to get Americans to make more than two changes of modes of transportation and devilishly hard to get them to make even two. 1100 East is far too narrow to use for a Streetcar line. At peak times the 1100 E 2100 S intersection is close to failure now (yes, I know that some of that is caused by finally filling the Sugarhole with a nice project). A 2100 South extension eastward, however, does go to “somewhereâ€; either the Park or Highland High. Also, 2100 South is wide enough to accommodate a Streetcar. As to those who say that 2100 South is not a “pedestrian friendly†street I would point them to successful streetcars such as the E/F line on broad, busy thoroughfares such as Market Street in San Francisco. Also, much of the streetcar system in Amsterdam and Milan runs on wide, crowded roads. Even better than choosing the 2100 South alignment would be to postpone this decision pending the long‐term transportation plan in the next few years which would Deana Agbor
I am opposed to the 2100 South route of the streetcar. I have spent alot of money on our home and with this streetcar it will decrease the value of our home. Our kids love going to the park and the streetcar route down 2100 south will change all that.
Katherine Orchard
opposed the 21st south option. 1100 east‐2100 east already congested and dangerous for her kids. Why do we need it, people in the area do not take transportation option anyway.
Mike Clamson
This message is from Mike Clamson, who is opposed to the 21st streetcar alignment due to possible rezoning, safety hazards for school kids, and the possibility of closing the school. His number is 801‐
699‐4791 if you would like to talk with him about it further.
Scott Romney
I am opposed to any streetcar above 1300 East. I don't understand why they would put a streetcar into residential neighborhoods. I would be happy if they didn't do it at all. They should just end it at the granite block.
Laura Gray
Hi Jill. Thanks for your responses you emails. My opinion on 1100 east as a person living half a block from it is summarized well by George Chapman in the trib. I have been worried about impact on biking and know from personal experience in Geneva how bad tracks are for bikes. Thanks for all you do. Laura Gray
Susan Koelliker
Against 2100 south. Has 5 kids who cross 21st south to go to school. I have watched the bus service for 5 days and the most people that have been on the bus was 4. I know there are uses for it but not in there neighborhood. Tax payers are voicing there comments, listen. The 1100 east niegborhood have had a chance to voice there concern now it is our turn on 2100 south to voice ours. WHy are we just learning about this?
Amber McClellan
Charlie, This is from Brittany Lampson, 2100 South 1600 East, calling to urge you to vote against the 2100 South alignment. She feels that this will destroy the neighborhoods and Highland High, not help. They live in a family neighborhood and don’t want a streetcar!
Elizabeth Nielsen
I am concerned for my children's safety in crossing 2100 south to school. I am opposed to the 2100 South streetcar route. Traffic concerns. It is already congested as is. Traffic will be re‐directed into the neighborhood to avoid 2100 South.
Robert Baird
I am concerned about the 2100 South streetcar route. It is not safe for kids to cross the streetcar crossing. I love the idea of the streetcar but it just seems to me that people can walk instead of taking streetcar. There are many schools in the area.
Mike Lambson
I'm just in opposition ot the streetcar expansion on 2100 South going east. My biggest concern is, I live one b lock north of 2100 s on 1600 E and we just remodeled and put 200, 00 in that remodel, My biggest concern is the nieghborhoods when they do the zoning change with the streetcar expansion. I am worried so many homes iwll be gone and chuildren will be out of those homes, and the schools will disappear and the elementary and middle shcool. I've seen that with Granite high school and south high school. When zoning laws change and the beighborhoods don't become neighborhoods, and it becomes adult priented socieites with no schools and a lot of it has to do with zoning changes.
Laurie Reed
Dear Counsil Members, Please do not put the street car down Eleventh East. We do not want it anywhere near us. There are no benefits to any of us ‐‐ we have buses. It is a waste of money. Please listen to the residents and vote no. Thank you. Laurie Reed
Hillary Taylor
melinda Smith
Opposed to the 2100 South streetcar route.
I'm just not for it (2100 South).
Heather Boyce
Very strongly against the 2100 South streetcar route. We have kids who have to cross that street already which is dangerous as is. It is not safe for our children. We do not want the streetcar!
Kathryn Connor
I would jsut ask them to vote no. I live in the country club area. I have three children who attend dilworth, yhillside and highland. I run, we ride bies and teen driers, I'm just not interested in the added danger. It is dangerous enough, I would plead that they vote no.
Heather Theurer
Opposed to 2100 sotuh. Kids go to Dillworth and Highland, unsafe for my kids to cross the street. I hav a new driver, 16 year old boy i am very concerned for his safety.
Marcia Webber
1. Wheren would you be transporting them too? just remember this is children crosssing the streeet to go to 2100 Southg. They already close our neihghoboorhood. Very very against it. I am pro business and pro p[rograess but I am so against this not only because I live in the area but I am trying to understand the logic of it. Traffic is already bad. And I don't khow if people have brought that up, and 2100 South is scary as it isand it would be even more scary.
Comment Line ‐ No Name
Opposed to the 2100 South streetcar. The costs are not good, ugly and I think we should just use buses. It will make our neighborhood ugly.
Jamie Slack
This is a nice neighborhood ‐ We DON'T need more congestion on 2100 South with an added trax line. PLEASE DO NOT MOVE FORWARD WITH THIS ‐ Have you contacted any of the neighbors that this will affect? I believe in having it down in the business district BUT NOT in the neighborhood.
Heidi Bennett
Opposed to 2100 south‐ extremly poor idea to put a train next to a high shool and a residential neighborhood. Kids cross the street to get to schoold. Listen to your constituents, let the public vote.
Ray Menasco
I would like to offer my opinion on the sugarhouse streetcar proposal. I am AGAINST it going NORTH past 2100 South on 1100 East. I am FOR a streetcar going EAST from 1100 East on 2100 South. My reasons are as follows: 1. There is already a bus route that is sufficient on 1100 East. 2. It would cause a drastic reduction in business for the small business owners on 1100 East, more that likely ending some of their business endeavors and closing them down. 3. 1100 East is a narrow street already, the addition of a streetcar will slow traffic, and probably congest the flow even more. 4. If a north‐south streetcar is needed it would be much better served on 700 East which would not hamper traffic if routed properly and would connect Sugarhouse via the East‐West streetcar at approx 2250 South 700 East with the 400 South Trax. If an East‐West Streetcar is built it would service 2100 South to Foothill Blvd, which could then Service a Foothill Streecar to 1. Foothill Plaza, 2. This is the place monument, 3. Hogle Zoo 4. Red Butte Gardens and the hook up on 5. The U of U campus with Trax. With that scenario we have a mini belt route of Street cars. Thank you for taking time for my viewpoint. Ray Menasco Sugarhouse home owner and resident since 1989.
Stacy St. George
Against 2100 S. I lived the country club neighborhood and I am against that because I am against the traffic walking to dilworth. The consenus is if we wanted a house downtown we would have bought a house downton. We value the quiet atmosphere and thats why we pay to live here.
Lynn Harrison
Is concerned with the aftermath of the 2100 south streetcar and the commercial development on 2100 south. Would like to see more public notice of streetcar to the public. Opposed to the 2100 south streetcar.
Alta Hales
Comment Line ‐ No name
I live on 2100 East and I am ocncerned about my kids crossing 21st and 21st crossing to dilworthg in the morning. It is already dangerous, Ib can't imagine the crossing guards having to deal with kids. The traffic will get congested. I will send my kids to a private school so they don't have to cross 21st sSouth.
Opposed to 11th East Streetcar.
Morgan Daines
Ron Pynes
Comment Line ‐ No name
I'm against the 2100 S for the strongest possible terms. First of all for the saftey for childrenthere are a lot of kids in the bieghborhood, it'll add traffic which is also unsafe for kids, they will ahve to take a lane or two out, I commute on a bike and I think it'll be more unsafe on bike.
I am opposed to the 2100S Street Car.
Opposed to 11th East streetcar route.
Kim Brightwelll
I oppose it coming up 21st because it will impact our children and our smaller community field. i think it is a great option and there is a better route. I think it could bring more business to that area. There are so many kids and so many schools, and I think it won't keep that community feel.
Kristen Okland
Opposed on the 2100 south streetcar route. The road is not wide enough. Population in this area does not warrnt a streetcar, everyone owns a car. This neighborhood probably wont utilize the streetcar and there really isnt a good reason for the streetcar to come this way. We have kids and and I am really concerned about their safety in crossing the street to school.
Heather Dallimore
It is imparative that the kids are able to cross the street to get to school safetly. I am opposed to the 2100 South streetcar route. As a real estate agent who works in this area, the change in the neighborhood will hurt the value by having the streetcar. Poor judgement on the Council if they vote in favorof the 2100 south route. I believe that there are more important issues that the Council could focus their time on than this special interest streetcar project.
Rick Larsen
I am getting the impression that Council isn’t hearing our voices on Crescent street. I am concerned for the safety of this kids in our neighborhoods and getting to school safely. I am opposed to the 2100 South streetcar route. I hope you can really vote in favor of your constituents.
Julie Bush
Opposed to the 2100 South streetcar route. It would make it difficult for kids to make it to school. Very dangerous.
Memet
I'm complaining about having the trax streetcar go up 2100 s. We live in this area and we oppose it.
Melissa Sipherd
Melissa Sipherd called to say she is against the 21st south streetcar due to it causing congestion on the streets and she wants the area to stay residential.
Jo Ann Freemn
Hello again, There are several of us that live along 2100 South, east of Sugarhouse Park, that are against the Streetcar running up this way. There is no destination for it up east on 2100 South and we already have so much noise and congestion up this way, small children everywhere. I believe that a couple of small commuter buses would work just as well and cost so much less then this Street car idea. We have lived in our house here for 20 years, like most of the residents in Sugarhouse and I think this is not the place to add a Streetcar, nor is it the place to start building all these high rise apartments and office buildings. We are not downtown SLC and nor do we wish to be. We know that Sugar House was meant to be pedestrian friendly also, but, they are building everything so close to the street instead of back from the sidewalks that it is beginning to feel claustrophobic and adding a street car would just enhance that feeling, along with the traffic it gets. Has anyone taken a look at the Holiday area on Holiday Blvd. and about 53rd south or so to see how it should be done?? They really should. It is a nice place to be and walk around. They have kept the buildings back from the streets, made the intersection nice and big; it has a good feeling to it when you are there. Please do not consider the Sugar House area for this Street car, it may have had its place way back when, but not now. Concerned residents, J F
No name
You're going to need 2 street cars to properly schedule stops. It's something to think about. I think there should be one streetcar that goes along highland, and another that goes along 1100 e and up on 2100 s.
Mike Lampson
Mike Lampson called to register his opposition to the 2100 South streetcar. Here is a summary of his comments: • Lives on 1600 East (just north of 2100 south) • He opposes the streetcar expansion on 2100 south • Streetcar will cause drastic problem with school system • Neighborhoods will be affected by future zoning changes, homes will be replaced by businesses, moving families out of the area. • Keep residential neighborhoods intact • Streetcar not needed on 2100 south
No name
I have a comment regarding the 2100 s streetcar, very much opposed to it. Very much opposed to s astreet there are no businesses between 1500 e 2300 e. Its neighborhood; a suburban area, not an urban area. There are already buses that are empty that go up 2100 s. UTA is already too costly We don't need to spend money to put in something that isn't being utilized.
Rick Larsen
Rick Larsen asking to reconsider 2100 South streetcar alignment. Will be detrimental to neighborhood.
Cindy Ting
I don't think the trolley should go up 2100 s. I don't think it should go north on 1100 e. I don't think we should have a trolley at all in Sugar House.
Dave Croft
I see no reason to have a streetcar travel on 2100 South east. I believe this is a safety issue for all. This will only push cars into the neighborhoods. I doesn’t feel that a streetcar will be utilized by residents along 2100 South and will be a waste of money.
Brittany Barth
I am opposed to the 2100 south route. I rather have more buses and bus stops that will help with transportation. By having the streetcar come up this way will be hazardous for children who need to commute to school. The traffic in this area is much too congested as is. Right now the kids can play on the sidewalks, with the streetcar it will detour people into the neighborhoods to avoid 2100 South. It is not bicyclist friendly. Extremely opposed.
Arthur King
I want to completely Discourage expansion of the trolley to either 1100 e or 2100 s. As a former employee of the Division of Air quality, i can assure the council that increasing the congestion with the street car won't help the air quality.
Deb Henry
Please vote NO on the 1100 East motion. There is so, so much opposition to the alignment at our community council meetings and committee meetings. I am concerned that moving forward with the 1100 East line will hurt public process in that people will not believe that our elected officials listen to us. We want more people participating and more people taking responsibility for participation in our government. By not taking their concerns seriously, we will effectively be telling them that their participation does not matter. There are huge benefits to 2100 South alignment including five schools in proximity to 2100 South as well as the park which has been under‐valued/ not valued in the study. We have the opportunity to encourage a whole new generation of transit riders. While I would appreciate having a city‐wide transportation plan in place, the Sugar House transportation plan from 2001 clearly states that we should be heading east to Foothill. In addition, during my time at UDOT as an engineer, it was brought to my attention that Foothill has huge congestion issues that could be mitigated with better access to transit. Sugar House is experiencing a large increase in dense residential units in proximity to 2100 South. We need to address congestion issues and improve the density of our travel within existing right of ways. Though I personally already avoid the area, the congestion is going to get much worse without more transit. My lungs and the lungs of my students have had enough of the pollution caused by dependence on automobiles. We deserve better and we can have better under your leadership. Thank you for your consideration. Deb Henry Trustee, Sugar House Community Council
No name
Opposed to the 2100 s. streetcar, I think it needs to be bettert planned out. Opposed to 1100 e. We are residents, we live in Sugar House.
Scott Romney
Opposed to 2100 South streetcar alignment. Would prefer to not extend streetcar line beyond phase 1.
Brian Randle
I am opposed to the 2100 south streetcar route.
Ron Pines
Opposed to 2100 South streetcar alignment.
Brittany Lambson
Opposed to 2100 South streetcar alignment.
Nancy Colt
I am against 21st s, its so busy anyways. It would make it ridiculous to travel from their house to businesses. Its going to make it more congested, we live in this neighborhood to get away from the big town. This is not what the neighborhood wants.
Melissa Larsen
I am concerned with the 2100 south route. It is a concern because of all the schools in the area. It is so dangerous for kids to cross the street and for new high school drivers to be driving around the streetcar. Garbage day would be so much more congested on the streets up here with the streetcar. Highland HS, Hillside Middle, Dilworth Ele, Catholic Private School in the area and that is not safe at all for the kids.
No name
I think you should do more study before you put a streetcar on 2100 s. or 1100 e.
Sarah Clinger
They do not want the streetcar going up 2100 s. Our concern is that you're not reading our comments. I ask that you do not vote for the streetcar to go up 2100 s. The traffic is already crazy from college and high school kids.
Shelly Tingey
I am strongly opposed to 2100 south streetcar route. Its already so congested and very dangerous for kids who are walking to school.
Nancy Jensen
I am opposed to 2100 south streetcar route. It is already congested as is and the streetcar will crowd it up even more.
Ruth Strong
The proposed trolley will simply make a bad traffic situation worse‐‐‐there streets are not wide enough to handle traffic, let alone add a trolley car that will use up valuable traffic space. There aren't parking areas for stops, there is danger to pedestrians, bikes & cars, not to mention that there just isn't a need for this mode of transportation in this area.
Holly Chamberlain
Against the 21st S alignment. Everyone in the neighborhood is against it. Feels it will be a safety issue for the children in the neighborhood.
Mike Lambson
An opposition comment for the expansion of the streetcar up 2100 s. I don't see any need or necessity that would compensate for neighborhoods deshoveled and students being lost at schools. New families won't want to move into the area.
Cathy Gill
I am in favor of bringing it only to 1700 e. Any further than that would be detrimental to our neighborhood and to our children.
Ruth Strong
The proposed trolley will simply make a bad traffic situation worse‐‐‐there streets are not wide enough to handle traffic, let alone add a trolley car that will use up valuable traffic space. There aren't parking areas for stops, there is danger to pedestrians, bikes & cars, not to mention that there just isn't a need for this mode of transportation in this area.
Stacie Sears
Thumbs down. I have watched various attempts (successful and unsuccessful) allowing creep and sprawl try to gain a stronger foothold at the 2100 South/2100 East business node. The business node at 21st and 21st was never meant to be bigger than it is. A Rail will open the gates to creep and sprawl up and down 2100 South and across 2100 East. No.
Debby Nielsen
Opposed to 2100 South. Have lived in the area for over 40 years. The area is already develeoped commercially. Worried about the safety of all the children with the streecar in the area.
Mike Reardon
Against the street car, both routes. He is a UTA bus driver and feels that the bus serves the area adequately.
Doug Murray
Opposed to moving forward with the streetcar at this time either on 2100 s. or 1100 e. I think there should be more discussion incorporated into the master plan. Please do not move forward with either of these options.
No name
The 2100 s option is ridiculous, you need to stop Soren Simonsen from doing this. I hope somebody replaces him next year.
Vicki Daynes
AGainst the railway going up 2100 s. Thank you.
Kathy Roos
Opposed to 2100 South alignment. Lives on 2100 South. Would have been more involved in process, but were dealing with backup of City sewer line.
Holly Chamberlain
I am opposed to the 2100 south route. I live on 22east and 22south. My kids walk to school and it is nerve wracking to think they would have to cross accross the a added streetcar. All my neighbors are against it.
Wallace
I and other neighbors are opposed to this idea, based on the safety of our children. More development coming up that street where children already have to cross a busy street near Dilworth, it is extremely concerning to me. This neighborhood is full of children and I want my council member to represent me.
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trax line route up to Sugarhouse Park, and east to 2300 east. I am a long time resident of Sugarhouse and live off of 2100 east on the proposed east/west route. I am opposed to this route for the following reasons: East of 1700 east is strictly a residential area with neighborhoods consisting of families with children. There are many schools within one mile of 2100 south with thousands of children walking to and from school with friends and younger siblings in tow. The older children from Hillside, Clayton and Highland walk and bike after school. Students not from the immediate neighborhood have used bus transportation for many years without issue or complaint. To that end, we simply do not need more public transportation. The buses that stop along 2100 south above 1700 east are mostly empty – rarely can more that two or three people be counted!! It is completely unclear what transportation necessity is being addressed by the proposal. Rather, it appears that the proposal may be serving business interests that would benefit from this development. Families live here and need to drive because they are not going from point A to point B served by a trax/trolley, but rather they often have numerous places to go with several stops often to other parts of the valley with several people in the car. We are interested in bike lanes and safe walking environment more than people movers. A trolly in this area would cause major traffic congestion. 2100 south from 700 east up to 2300 east is a very busy area especially in the morning until around 9 am as students walk/bike/drive/scooter to school, then picking up again around 2:30 as Highland releases students, and then a steady stream with Dilworth, Hillside and the other schools release students to again flood the area as they head home. I am very concerned about the safety issues associated with having an essentially unstoppable trax/trolley in the immediate vicinity of students as young as 5 years old, not to mention the incredible congestion, confusion and accidents that will accompany the trax/trolley. The four lanes that currently exist are in full use most of the time, and it is extremely difficult to imagine where and how the trax/trolley will fit into the current traffic patterns. When I am heading home and on 2100 s heading east during those times and need to turn north into my driveway there are often over 10 cars stopped behind me while I wait for oncoming traffic to subside so I can turn. It works now because there are four lanes that allow for traffic to move well. To reduce lanes or inhibit traffic from moving would cause horrific traffic jams. In this regard, it seems that you Dana Evans
Vote against the railway going up 2100 s because most of the children i say, 99% of the children have cars and drive. We've already had adults hit by the railways in downtown. I walk across the street to get groceries, and you won't be able to cut through 2100 s to walk to fresh market. I'll have to go to the major intersection to get home.
Nancy Olsen
I am not in favor of the trolley car coming up 2100 s. We have lots of children that walk along 2100 s. I think the trolley will create a lot more traffic and congestion. People will be more anxious and won't feel as safe when they're driving. I feel like our buses are sufficient in this area, esp since they're not full. We don't need more access to this area.
Anonymous
Opposed to the 2100 south due to the many schools and the kids crossing the streets with this streetcar. Congestion in the area will be even worse with the addition to the streetcar. Most people in our community already have cars and we will have to go to a major intersection to get to our homes. 99% of the kids in our area drive their own cars. We dont need public transit because we live in the city.
Jana Proctor
No name
Opposing the 2100 s. I'm not fond of that area being anymore congested. I'm concerned that schools and neighborhoods will be destructed and unwanted people will come near those areas.
Against the trolley coming up 2100 s.
John Remington
My wife and I are against of any further expansion of the streetcar in sugar house. Its a waste of money, and it'll interfere with our traffic.
Nik Christensen
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discussion surrounding the Sugarhouse streetcar line. I feel that there is a major opportunity for the advancement of the Sugarhouse streetcar that has received little to no mention anywhere in the media, council discussions, or community feedback sessions. I have a suggestion for the Council to consider. Instead of choosing 1100 East or continuing the Streetcar up 2100 South ‐ why not run the line north on 1300 East? 1300 East may be a busy street already but the opportunity to revamp (including upgrading 1300 East to Flex Lanes‐like on 5400 South in Taylorsville‐to help accommodate increased traffic flows in the morning & evenings) the already congested 1300 East is a golden opportunity that would help rejuvenate a clustered residential/commuter area. By continuing the streetcar line East on Sugarmont Drive, crossing over Highland at Sugarmont, continue further East on Wilmington Avenue eventually turning North on 1300 East at the intersection of Wilmington Ave and 1300 East ‐ the line would then go north on 1300 East linking (eventually/hopefully) up to the existing Trax Red Line at the intersection of 500 South and 1300 East near the University of Utah. The reason why I feel the urge to submit my public comment is that I feel the battle over the 11th East, 21st South options has been in bad taste and quite silly really from both the community standpoint and the councils standpoint. The streetcar line would not directly serve any function on 1100 East or 2100 South ‐ except to cause increased congestion in an already dense and congested area. What would the transit‐oriented point be to run the line up 2100 South to an exclusively residential area near Sugarhouse Park be? From my point of view there isn't and it would serve no viable transit related purpose. I have discussed this idea with individuals from in and around the area that would be affected and have received warm consideration to my proposal ‐ making me feel all the more encouraged to write to you. The 1300 East option is something that has not been mentioned or even proposed as far as I am aware and I believe that the 1300 East option would provide patrons of the line with the greatest access to community locations such as Westminster College, the businesses around 2100 & 13th, the former Granite block, Sugarhouse Park and most importantly it would directly link two of the nations sterling educational institutions. The University of Utah and Westminster College allowing students, professors, employees, etc the opportunity to ditch their vehicles for the easy to use streetcar. In addition to providing ease of access to all these local Kathy Ruth
She is asking that the Council delay the vote to do more research, come talk to the residents. This is where they live, the streetcar will have greater impact on them. She wants to keep the neighborhood residential.
Susan Bolinger
The advantages of the streetcar do not outweigh what thtis will do to businesses in the area during construction. It will kill the Sugar House area and erase the charming area that it has become. Susan Bollinger
Jim Olson
I am a resident of the area. There has not been a proper study done for the 2100 south streetcar route. I just dont see how the Council will vote without the proper study done on how the neighborhood will be affected.
Willow Jepsen
Opposed to 2100 South streetcar alignment. Cited safety concerns.
Margy Barker
I think this could be a potential problem. There is not enough room on the street. It is already hard to drive up 2100 South as is. It is not safe for the children in the area. There should be a better way to not directly impact the surrounding neighborhood and environment.
Jeff Picket
Jeff Picket Jeff.picket.cpa@gmail.com I strongly oppose having a trolley line or a trax line run up 2100 S. Primarilymy concernis gonna be kids, both little kids living in the houses along 2100 s and high school kids who attend highland. I’m not aware of any of these trax or trolley lines that run through residential neighborhoods and that is effectively whatthis would be. The traffic is already highly congestion, I doubt people wont use the line. It is my udnerstandingthat it is few bus lines because they are not in use, and if people are already not using public transportation what makes us think they will start using the trolley line.
Hadley Saber
I just oppose it for various safety reasons going up 2100 South.v
Katie Eckles
• Believe it will bring more traffic our residential areas • Dangerous for our children who have to cross 2100 south to Dillworth • Safety issue’s for our kids • Highland High, freshman running back and forth to school • This will force me to drive my kids to school every day • Congested and pollution, walk to school on red days, health pollution • All driving to get schools safely, residential neighborhood, mass transit, • Why is there no comprehensive plan? • Talk and talk to connect to the U, there are no studies where this has been approved
Angie Boren
• Has 4 small kids who cross 2100 south, scared for their safety
Bill Brady
I have concerns for property value and they going to have to demo those homes and destroy their front yards and I think it’ll devalue their property. My biggest concern is the kids crossing to get to their elementary and junior high. I think the street is wide enough to 1700 East, but it would be really hard
Jim Olsen
Opposed to 2100 South streetcar alignment. There has been a lack of study, proper communication and planning on this. Hopes for proper dialogue and study of the impacts.
Tiffany Leone
2100 south opposed, all together • very concerned safety issues that the sugarhouse street car will bring for students that go to Dillworth and highland high • 2100 south is so congested already this is a horrendous safely concerned • Drivers as well
Faith Wallis
opposed to 2100 south option • There will be consequences that come along with the street car • neighborhood is full of children • no busing available unless special needs to the three school • adding traffic to this is going to be dangerous for all especially out children • asking for you to vote no on 2100 south street car
Alison Larkins
About 2100 S above foothill. I go in that area all the time. I am opposed to it; I can see where it might be needed downtown. I don’t see why it would be needed. It would make it more congested and more people would come into our neighborhoods, we want a quiet neighborhood. I am opposed to it. It is ruining downtown in a way. It takes so long to get anywhere. I don’t see how they would even do it, it would traffic so much worse and I don’t think it is needed.
SueAnn Jones
Opposed to 2100 south option • kids that walk across street to Dillworth and Hilside middle is in grave danger • everyone in neighborhood is against it • please vote against it • focus on our children • when they closed Roseland Heights elementary they promised safe passage for our children please do not make them pass in front of a train. This is not the promised safe passage
Adam Hiatt
Dear City Council Members – My name is Adam Hiatt. I am the head basketball coach at Westminster College right here in Sugar House. I am married and have three children. We live close to campus on 1520 Redondo Avenue. I am writing to you today to express my opposition to the Sugar House Streetcar proposal to run up 2100 South to 1700 East and beyond. My family and I moved to Sugar House for a great quality of life. Sugar House, Wasatch Hollows, and even University were once great family neighborhoods, but mixed residential/commercial initiatives, coupled with smaller homes and rental properties, drove families south to Holladay, Sandy, and South Jordan. Today, Sugar House and Wasatch Hollows are making a strong comeback. Residents are renovating homes and building additions to accommodate their families. It is becoming once again a desired neighborhood. Certainly 2100 South is a busy corridor with auto and bus traffic. Imagine if a streetcar were constructed. Traffic would increase dramatically, which is not exactly what us fellow residents desire from our neighborhood. It needs to be understood that family neighborhoods do not typically use public transportation, as it is inconvenient to load children and their belongings on a bus or streetcar. That is why councilman LaMalfas’ editorial in the SL Trib is inaccurate, in terms of his reasoning that the Sugar House area is underserved by public transportation. We want it that way. It allows us to transport our families to and from activities in a manner that is both convenient and safe for us. Not every decision from our city council should be made to accommodate businesses. These small businesses located in our neighborhood did so knowing the consequences of said decision and who their likely clientele would be. Please vote on behalf of the residents, who comprise the true foundation of this neighborhood. Help us preserve the integrity of our neighborhood by fostering a strong family community support system. Respectfully, Coach Hiatt Head Men’s Basketball Coach Westminster College 801‐832‐2336 Go Griffins!
Nancy Warr
• opposed to 2100 south • member of community of 15 years, homeowner • highland high, elementary, junior high great supporting public education • 21000 south crossing through these school zones • Proposes a grave safety concern for all three school zones • Do you want us to support public education or public transportation? • If you want us to support public education stop this railway • Petitions out along 2100 south, have you received them? • Mother of 3 kids who go to all three schools that cross the 2100 south street, I vote NO!
Leslie Mingo
Opposed to 2100 south • Do not come up to my neighborhood which is 1300 east
Darrell Roberts
I am a CPA and I have property on 200 E, I got a letter from Sorenson. I just talked to my daughter who lives on Preston Street, she didn’t even get a letter. I am opposed to this thing going east up to 2300E. I don’t object going to 1100 E. I don’t know why the city council and the mayor are so determined to do this when so many p[people are opposed to it including me. It will cause so much traffic and crowds, There are four schools in their neighborhoods. Riding their bikes and walking to school, it will too dangerous for them. I don’t understand why they are doing it, it won’t be of benefit to anyone. It is going to be federal money that is one reason our country is in such a big mess because we are willing to spend federal money. I think this mayor Becker is stupid that is my opinion. My opinion is that it should not be done, stop at 1100 East and let it be done. I don’t even know who would use the trolley line to begin with. SLC used to have trolley lines and they took them off. I was out of hill air force base and I came with my wife and there were car lines over the place. They have since been long gone. We are trying to repeat something that’s been done before. Waste of money without benefit and causing a big problem, and if they are so set on doing it they should put it up for a public vote.
Dave Orchard
Absolutely against it going up 2100 South. It is too congested and we are a nice residential neighborhood. We don’t need a streetcar going up and down. It should stop at 1100 east and service the U and Westminster. I would like to just keep it a nice residential area, and I live in that vicinity. Absolutely don’t want it.
Heather Pickett
opposed to 2100 south • Traffic congestion • Safety for our children • No need for it
Linn Silver
We would really not like to see TRAX come that far. Since Walmart we have had a lot of crime and transients in the neighborhood. We’ve been broken into twice.
I am not for the 2100 South extension.
I oppose the streetcar going up 2100 South to 2300 E and the reason why is safety and cost. Busses can provide the extra service without the cost of the light rail. And safety for children in the neighborhood is dangerous for automobiles and pedestrians.
Stephanie Budge
I just strongly opposed I am really worried about my neighborhood being too busy and overcrowded and not safe for my kids that are going to be driving in the next couple years and I’m not interested in any more development in my neighborhood
Scott Olsen
Opposed to the 2100 South streetcar alignment. He feels 2100 South is already too congested and adding a streetcar will only add to that. He feels phase 1 of the streetcar is a good idea because it is in an existing right of way.
Heather Cook
Amber Simpson
Amy Bradford
I live on 2100 E and I just wanted know, I wanted to keep this area a little safe. I think this would bring some potential complications. There are a ton of kids and 4 or 5 schools from 1800 E to 2100 E. I think the potential of bringing these up. I think they should keep it to 1100 E or 900 E.
Shelly Stansfield
I’m basically against the 2100 South Extension.
Michael U. Hansen
Council, I am a permanent resident in the area the Sugar House Community Council refers to as the Country Club Area. My wife and I are raising our children here and enjoy the current state of the area. Like all of the neighborhoods in Salt Lake City, the Country Club Area has a unique feel and its own benefits that differ from other areas in this great city. I have lived in various locations (Avenues, Federal Heights, Foothills, University, Capitol) in the city during my life and have enjoyed each one of them for different reasons. What has drawn me to the Country Club Area at this point in my life is a desire to live in a suburb‐like neighborhood, yet remain as close as possible benefits of the diverse neighborhoods of Salt Lake City. I just want to express my desire to keep this area of the city what it has become over the years – a place where families live in single‐family homes, which they own (not rent); where kids walk to school and don't have to worry about "pubs" and crossing the path of mass transit along the way. I love that there are efforts being made to make Salt Lake City more urban and have a bigger city feel in areas, but please leave the Country Club area like a suburb. I am excited for the streetcar in Sugar House. However, I would not like to see it come East of Sugar House Park. I am nervous of the impact the streetcar will have on my children's walk to school and the traffic in our area. Both Dilworth Elementary and Beacon Heights Elementary boundaries cross 2100 South. I am not eager to see six year‐old children on their scooters crossing any type of mass transit tracks on their way to school. Additionally, I worry about the impact it will have on traffic off of 2100 South as drivers cut though the neighborhoods to avoid the tracks. I live on the 2100 block of Oneida Street (2170 E.). I already deal with people speeding down our block to avoid the light at 2100 East & 2100 South. How much more traffic will we have when people are avoiding the tracks? Although not part of the proposed solutions I really think the park is a natural end to the streetcar as you can create a hub there with parking, bus routes, bike trails, and more right there. Above all I hope my objection to the streetcar on 2100 South will lead you to find better ways of utilizing the city's resources. There are a lot of needs in this city that I believe are more important that mass transit in the Country Club area. Also in your future endeavors I hope you attempt to maintain the diversity of the areas inside the city and attempt to maintain the suburban feel of the Country Club area. Thank you for you time, Michael U. Hansen
Diane Creamer
I STRONGLY OPPOSE the streetcar coming up 2100 South. It is not necessary. There is amble public transportation with the current bus system. What are we gaining with the street car that we can't do with the current bus system?? As a mother of young children, I am especially concerned with increased danger that the streetcar poses to school children. There are six schools with in three blocks of 2100 South and thousands of children that cross 2100 South two times every school day that will be directly impacted by this. It is unthinkable that they would be placed in harms way (additional traffic on side streets, congestion on 2100 S) for a streetcar that is unnecessary and UNWANTED by the majority of people who live in the area. Please respect our wishes and end the tracks line where it is for the time being. Thank you.
Suzanne Middleton
Dear Salt Lake City Council‐ I live in Sugar House and work at the University of Utah. I have a strong opinion that the proposed streetcar route NOT go up 1100 E, but instead go up 1300 E. This would provide access to the patrons of Sugar House park and still provide service to Westminster College. The street is wider on 13th and makes more sense from a mass transit perspective. The line could eventually be extended to the University of Utah since a majority of people who go to school and work at the University of Utah live in the Sugar House area. This would also be an excellent option to decrease traffic congestion during game days as well. Thank you. Suzie Middleton
Diane Creamer
I STRONGLY OPPOSE the streetcar coming up 2100 South. It is not necessary. There is amble public transportation with the current bus system. What are we gaining with the street car that we can't do with the current bus system?? As a mother of young children, I am especially concerned with increased danger that the streetcar poses to school children. There are six schools with in three blocks of 2100 South and thousands of children that cross 2100 South two times every school day that will be directly impacted by this. It is unthinkable that they would be placed in harms way (additional traffic on side streets, congestion on 2100 S) for a streetcar that is unnecessary and UNWANTED by the majority of people who live in the area. Please respect our wishes and end the tracks line where it is for the time being. Thank you.
Jones, Nathan W.
My name is Nathan Jones and I live at 2131 Parkway Ave., SLC, UT 84109. I’m writing to oppose the proposed street cars on 2100 S to the east of 1300 E. I would not oppose street cars in the Sugar House business district. Running street cars to the east of 1300 E. on 2100 S. would be a significant traffic hazard and safety concern (particularly with regard to children attending Dilworth Elementary and Highland High). I also believe street cars would not be used at an efficient level east of 1300 E and would detract significantly from the character of the neighborhoods.
sue
I live in Sugarhouse. I am concerned about parking our cars in order to pick up the streetcar? Would there be an additional charge for this parking? When I go to the U to pick up TRAX, parking is not allowed in the parking lot, only on the streets. Have you tried parking on the street at the U? There aren't any places. Same for the 9th East/4th South station. Where do we park???? Thank you, Sue Williams
George Young
Opposed altogether, opposed to 1100 east • We can’t afford to have traffic congestion by someone’s little toy whim • Bus routes go east on 2100 south, the only time they begin to get full is when the high school gets out of school • Bus route on 2100 south last year got cut off after 7 pm because of lack of ridership • Ridership will not be there, tremendous amount of money that it will cost does not make sense • Try to make a left hand turn on 1300 east onto 2100 south is ridiculous • Who is benefiting from this, the Council’s pocket? • Use the money to help out community and kids and homeless
Chari Engle
Dear Council Members, I am sending this note to encourage you to VOTE NO regarding the 11th East 21st So. Trax project. For the proposed 4 block length I do not think it would be Cost Effective. The funds would be better allocated to direct the Trax farther up along 21st South eventually connecting with the University of Utah & serving those living on the East bench. Passengers could eventually connect with the loop to the U of U and on around to the downtown area. Congestion along 11th East would be inefficient. Cordially, Mrs. Chari Engle
Bruce Jenson
opposed to 2100 south • Cause congestion • Safety issues • Huge negative • Not wanted at all
Erik Herazo
Thank you for tackling such a controversial issue. With emotions running as high as they are it will be difficult to come to an objective conclusion on what it is the public is honestly saying. So we wish you the best on that. Nevertheless these are our thoughts. One aspect of this project where there is agreement is that 11th east is overly congested. The longer the city waits to add this mode of transportation in any part of the city the more painful it will be to put it in place. It appears that as far as the 11th East alignment is concerned it is either too late or close to it. So it only makes sense it is addressed first. The way we see it a streetcar will be just one more vehicle blocking the street no more inconveniently than a Hummer or a large SUV. The difference however is that the streetcar will be moving people that otherwise would have been part of the traffic jam we experience in that area. In defense of the opposing businesses, if they don't know how long it will take to complete the part affecting their business it is no wonder they seemed so emotional during the most recent public hearing. It should not be difficult to bring clarity to those concerned about the impact on their business. We are only speaking of the physical aspects of the streetcar presence. However if there are architectural plans to modernize the 11th East moving forward that is another issue. As many of these businesses and residents feel, we also feel the quaint atmosphere available to the public should be preserved. The quirky buildings and the mature trees lining the streets are an important part of the wonderful character of the area. Sincerely, Erik and Marlene Herazo
Vallee Stetner
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both of these streets, slow traffic, cost millions of dollars, change the aesthetics of the area and has not been presented to the public in a timely or accurate manner. The proposal to the streetcar up 1100 E was stated to “service the students of Westminsterâ€. This is a ridiculous waste of tax payer money to save college students a four block walk. The proposal by Soren Simonsen to run the street car up 2100 S is further folly with the sole purpose of financing the project through increased property taxes specifically for those homeowners located in the route area. There will be NO federal funding for this project. The cost of the project lays solely on the shoulders of the property owners of Sugar House. The residents of Sugar House pay higher taxes all the while losing values on their homes. We have a mass transit system in place in Sugar House. It is called our bus system and it runs far below capacity daily. Honesty in advertising ‐ In the marketing of the Phase 2 Proposals: All studies used COMMERCIAL property as examples. These streets are RESIDENTIAL. This is a major difference. The Master Plan did not show any of the Trax Phase 1 plan until 2011. The Master Plan does not show the Sugar House trolley/streetcar. These properties were purchased and cared for by Sugar House residents with a Master Plan in place. Simonsen's proposal to diminish our property values and increase our property taxes has been marketed on misguided information. Please, see the Sugar House Street Car website for the marketing of the proposal shstreetcar.com. See the artist renderings of lushly landscaped parkways with walking paths and benches. This is not the plan. This is the marketing illustration when in fact the plan is to put two grooves (proven by a Portland study to have caused accidents with 69% of cyclists that have ridden on them) and overhead cable lines. There is NO plan for improvement of any kind. No burying of cables or utilities, no additional concrete, no landscaping. At least one, perhaps two of the four lanes on 2100 S or 1100 E would be grooved and overhead cables added, blocking traffic and limiting right hand turns. This will slow traffic as the street cars are by definition and designed very slow moving at 10‐15 mph making many stops, every two blocks. They are said to be on a 15 minute schedule starting at 6am. The Phase 1 plan was a $50,000,000 project for 11 blocks. The cost of Phase 2 has not been announced in their marketing materials but it will be paid for by the property owners of Sugar House, ENTIRELY. The length of the street car is said to be no more than two parking spaces long but look at actual street Suzie Horn
opposed to 2100 south option • Does not want to have it go passed 1300 east • Take children to school every day on 2300 east and 210 south, this will be dangerous for our kids • Unsightly for neighborhood
Richard and Margaret Bond
This is a big change. We don’t think any final decision should be made until you have a plan for now and the future. A trolley going east makes more sense and could serve many more people. The bicycle use on 1100 East would be effected for the future and not at all safe for them. I personally don’t like the bikes on the road with cars. But can see for the bike riders sake leave the trolley OFF 1100 East. The small business along the street are what makes Sugarhouse area what it is. A very nice area to live in and to visit . Buses are needed and don’t cause that much of a problem . If the Mayor thinks he must make a change. Take the trolley up 2100 South where it can serve more people. It won’t be any more trouble for Westminster students to walk to 2100 South than down to 1100 East. Besides isn’t the apartment building serving the students on 1300 East and 2100 South? Make long range plans.
Tiffany Wharton
I am no way in favor of 2100 South streetcar route. I am in no interest of the increased traffic that the streetcar route. It will divert traffic from the 2100 South and into the neighbors. I think the bus system in place works fine already. Safety for children is a huge factor in why I am asking you to vote against 2100 south route.
Anna K Boller and Thomas Robson
Dear Council: The opposition of the proposed 1100th East streetcar is overwhelming. Please reflect your constituents in your votes. As a resident on E. Hollywood Ave, just west of 1100 East, my opposition is based on living AND working in this neighborhood. I have a private practice on 1100 East. As a resident and business, I am opposed for all the reasons listed in the meeting. 1)It will destroy the charm and integrity of our Sugarhouse neighborhood by choking it and artificially dividing it. 2)It will cause traffic to circumvent 11000 East and rush through the surrounding neighborhoods ‐ particularly streets like Hollywood Ave that are completely residential; We have families with children who already are plagued by traffic trying to avoid 2100 South. 3)It does not address the congestion on 2100 South that goes E/W ‐‐‐ the very area an alternative trolley or streetcar would work much better without disrupting residential neighborhoods. 4)We are need of a master plan BEFORE any major traffic pattern changes are implemented 5)More notice and involvement of the majority of residents is needed 6)A more balanced master plan should take into account the complexity of traffic patterns for both visitors, residents and businesses. Integrated sidewalks, bike lanes, parking and private residential areas are critical: THIS IS NOT A NORTH SOUTH TRANSPORTATION ONLY ISSUE! Thank for taking the opinions voiced at the council meeting last month, and since then, into your decision making formula.
Steven Wolff
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trax line route up to Sugarhouse Park, and east to 2300 east. I am a long time resident of Sugarhouse and live off of 2100 east on the proposed east/west route. I am opposed to this route for the following reasons: East of 1700 east is strictly a residential area with neighborhoods consisting of families with children. There are many schools within one mile of 2100 south with thousands of children walking to and from school with friends and younger siblings in tow. The older children from Hillside, Clayton and Highland walk and bike after school. Students not from the immediate neighborhood have used bus transportation for many years without issue or complaint. To that end, we simply do not need more public transportation. The buses that stop along 2100 south above 1700 east are mostly empty – rarely can more that two or three people be counted!! It is completely unclear what transportation necessity is being addressed by the proposal. Rather, it appears that the proposal may be serving business interests that would benefit from this development. Families live here and need to drive because they are not going from point A to point B served by a trax/trolley, but rather they often have numerous places to go with several stops often to other parts of the valley with several people in the car. We are interested in bike lanes and safe walking environment more than people movers. A trolly in this area would cause major traffic congestion. 2100 south from 700 east up to 2300 east is a very busy area especially in the morning until around 9 am as students walk/bike/drive/scooter to school, then picking up again around 2:30 as Highland releases students, and then a steady stream with Dilworth, Hillside and the other schools release students to again flood the area as they head home. I am very concerned about the safety issues associated with having an essentially unstoppable trax/trolley in the immediate vicinity of students as young as 5 years old, not to mention the incredible congestion, confusion and accidents that will accompany the trax/trolley. The four lanes that currently exist are in full use most of the time, and it is extremely difficult to imagine where and how the trax/trolley will fit into the current traffic patterns. When I am heading home and on 2100 s heading east during those times and need to turn north into my driveway there are often over 10 cars stopped behind me while I wait for oncoming traffic to subside so I can turn. It works now because there are four lanes that allow for traffic to move well. To reduce lanes or inhibit traffic from moving would cause horrific traffic jams. In this regard, it seems that you Kathy Mayeta
Opposed to the 2100 South streetcar alignment. She is concerned primarily for the safety of her children and feels the streetcar will add one more obstacle to safety.
Dan Cimbora
oppsoed to 2100 south option • Too many schools • Already congested • No business to be served • Buses can do job more effetely and are under used as it is
Gretchen Tettyy
Opposed to 2100 south option • What is it going to accomplish? • I would be all for it, but what is the point behind it? • Will make more congestion, opposes a danger for our kids walking to school
Mike Bowen
opposed to 2100 south option • Against heading east on 2100 south • Have lived her for the reason of loving our neighborhood • This will bring more commercial business • More traffic, we don NOT mass transit through our neighborhood
Vicki Rathunde
opposed to 1100 east • Business are making a lot on news, heard resident voice • Lived in 21 years, my kids grew up here and my grandkids need to be raised here • I live right on the corner of where the stop is proposed • I do NOT want 160 people getting off on my front door • I am worried about crime, the hours they are being run • Homeless people will be in front of my home • Will diminish the value of my home, that I have built • On disability and I need my house to be valued • Are there going to be people walling up Garfield to Westminster • BIGGEST POINT: if there is a fire and I need an ambulance how will I get the help I need?
Mitzy
Against the streetcar on 11th. It will hurt the businesses in the area, cause congestion, and negatively impact the residents.
Kathy Hoenig
I am opposed to moving the trolley any further until a more complete transportation plan is laid out for the East side of SLC. PLEASE do NOT run it down 1100 East!!!
Heather Whidden
I just signed 2100 Against's petition "Salt Lake City Council: STOP Street Car Rail Spur Up 2100 South" on Change.org. Here's why I signed: We don't need or want a streetcar up 21st So. What a monumental waste of money! I travel this road daily and can't imagine navigating it with existing traffic AND narrowed lanes to accommodate a streetcar. Most importantly, what about the safety of hundreds of students? I DO NOT want my kids crossing rails to and from Dilworth. Please focus on what we actually want in Sugar House: high‐quality teachers and fewer kids per classroom, improved sewage and water lines, repaved roads, etc.
Dave Iltis
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Mayor's office, etc regarding streetcars and bicycles. With either of the 2 proposed alignments, it is crucial that bicycles be safely accomdated. In conversations with SLC, I have been told that this would be the case, but I have not looked at any engineering diagrams to see where the tracks would be aligned in the street. Curbside alignment can be extremely dangerous for cyclists. 1100 is very narrow from 2100 S, traveling north, so to mix bikes, cars, and the streetcar seems like it would be a difficult task. 1100 E is a popular riding route, so it is crucial to pay close attention to the details here. 2100 S. might be a better option for bicycles because the street is much wider. Regardless, curbside alignment of the tracks can be treacherous for bicycles. This is an issue no matter what happens with the streetcar, and one that I hope SLC and the Council pays close attention to.The on the street construction has to be done right. All of the information below has been shared with SLC Transportation, and with the Street Car people in SLC. Additionally, it's my understanding that Alta Planning is involved with the streetcar. Since they produced the best practices study, that is potentially good news for the in‐street tracks alignment. The following and attached are info on streetcars and bikes. Alignment of the tracks is key to cyclist safety. Sugarhouse streetcar phase II: Attached is Alta Planning's study/guide to best practices for streetcars and bikes. It is very dangerous to place tracks closer to the curb than in the center of the street for bicyclists as crossing tracks while riding parallel to them can cause crashes for bikes. 1100 E. is an important corridor for bicycle transportation, and every effort needs to be made to make the interaction of bikes and streetcars as safe as possible, both in Sugarhouse Phase II and the Downtown Streetcar. Regarding the Downtown Streetcar: The possibility of a downtown street car line (and network) seems to be moving forward. See below regarding the recently awarded grant. This is potentially a great economic development and transportation improvement for SLC, but... At this month's MBAC meeting, the RDA presented a preferred, but very, preliminary, alignment for the proposed streetcar line. It would impact a large section of 200 S, a current bike lane that we have worked many years to complete. Alternatives were 300 S and 100 S. The conflict for cyclists is in part the alignment, but more importantly, it is that the preferred location of the tracks is in the curb lane. This creates many potential problems for cyclists including where to safely ride, and in crossing the tracks. If the tracks are curbside, no matter where Jane Guyer Paine
I commute to work daily by bicycle from Holladay (home) to Sugarhouse (work). I support all forms of public transportation and specifically the street car project on 2100 South.
David Carlson
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these, but on the other hand, at least you are finally getting an engaged electorate! That's always a good result. I am writing to urge you to vote against the streetcar extension up 11th East. I believe running the line east along 21st south is a much more viable option. I'm going to quote from another neighbor's reasoning, as my own thoughts are quite acidic and there's probably been enough venom and acid spilt on this issue and I would not want that to take away from the discussion: I'm all for smart transit and anything we can do to eliminate pollution in our community. Unfortunately, I'm against the 11th East proposal for the following reasons: Too much traffic already cuts through our neighborhood, going at high velocities. The trolley will push more of that "cross traffic" into our neighborhood streets endangering our children and other pedestrians. The only way to help with this is to add numerous and expensive traffic calming measures ‐ but the city doesn't have the budget to do so. More traffic will end up on 9th East, which means more idling and more congestion and more pollution. 1700 South is not a destination The use case for travelers going from Sugar House center to 17th or 9th South along 11th east is a rarity. These riders don't exist. Check the busses each day to see. There is no ridership in either direction. Can 13th East and other north‐south routes not made for commuting (like 10th East) handle more cars? If I were using 9th or 13th East now, I'd be very leery about the added traffic that will be coming. Small businesses and construction: I fear for the small businesses along the 1100 east route that will be affected. Can they survive? The neighborhood simply can’t survive as it currently exists when shuttered businesses inevitably lead to unwatched and unmaintained properties ripe for vandalism, transients, and deterioration. North‐south transit is plentiful, but East‐West is lacking. Shouldn't we be smarter about filling needed transit gaps? Federal money is purported to be the key to making this happen financially. But a special improvement district will need to be established. And that means more taxes for the businesses and residents near the route. I'm all for paying my fair share, but I'm not for paying taxes for something that I believe is detrimental to my neighborhood and to the community at large. I agree with mass transit. I have used it and I am all for expansion that makes it more useful and more convenient for the user. However, I don't believe 1100 East will accomplish either of those aims. It is a streetcar to nowhere. What concerns me is the absolute tone deafness of the city council about this issue and the "we Joyce Marder
The proposed routes for the streetcar will do us no good unless it also serves the 15th and 15th area, the price is distance‐based and the service hours are the same as TRAX.
Camille
I am NOT in favor of dividing sugar house in either direction with the Trolley 'expansion' plan. Expansion? Why!? The traffic is reasonable. The neighborhoods are vibrant. And Highland High has, and will be, in the middle of this active community for years to come. . . unless the trolley separates the neighborhoods, and 2100 so. is re‐zoned as commercial, and homes are destroyed. Transportation rarely has an impressive ROI. But, what the residence and community have built in Sugar House IS impressive. I recently did attend the public hearing on this matter. Without beating my chest like the proud boxing business owner did, "WE are Sugar House." Are we being heard? I am very concerned and am not in favor. Please do not divide us.
Jenny Linford
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concerned about having a streetcar in Sugarhouse on 1100 East , but we are even more concerned about a line running up 21st South. We have entrusted you with our tax dollars. This is not how we want them spent. The confusion and controversy surrounding this trolley line should be a HUGE RED FLAG that perhaps not enough care and consideration has gone into this project. Not enough has been done to directly contact the neighbors whom it will affect. I didn't even know about the proposed plans until just a few weeks prior to your last council meeting. It seems hasty and disorganized. Do not waste out hard earned money that we entrust to you in taxes on something that will not improve our lives. For the following reasons we are OPPOSED to a streetcar line on 2100 South. 1. 1. 2100 South is the main road out of our neighborhood. It is our main thoroughfare to I‐80 and I‐215, really to anywhere in the city. Generally, it runs pretty smoothly with the 2 lanes of traffic in both directions. However during peak hours, like morning and afternoon commute, it is congested enough that it can be difficult to cross without a trolley line! 2. 2. I commute each morning to Bountiful via I‐80. Many mornings it takes me 2 to 3 lights to get through the double turn lane from 2100 S. to 1300 E. Before you decide to run a trolley line up 2100 S., sit and watch the traffic in the morning, at lunch, and in the afternoon. That would create a complete mess at an already busy intersection! Not just a mess, it would be a complete nightmare! 3. 3. There is no need for a trolley on 2100 S. It is not a destination stop. It is the main thoroughfare to quiet neighborhoods. We don’t need the noise and congestion that it will create on our streets. 4. 4. It is naÃˉve to think that people on the east side will give up their cars to ride a trolley line to connect to a trax line to get downtown. Our east side neighborhood is well serviced by bus lines to the University of Utah and downtown, not to mention one of the main bus lines runs down 2100 South. We don’t need a streetcar! 5. 5. In an effort to make our areas more biker/green friendly, aesthetically pleasing, commuter friendly, etc. the city tried to ‘improve’ Guardsman Way a few years ago. They took a street with steady traffic, like 2100 S., that had 2 lanes in each direction, also like 2100 S, and took out two of the lanes in favor of large median and bike lanes. Well, it didn’t help anything! It made my 10 minute drive to the University of Utah a 20 minute drive because I was backed up in a single lane of traffic. It did exactly the opposite of making it ‘be er.’ Now there are the same amount Mitzi Schroeder
Dear Sirs and Madams, My name is Mitzi Schroeder and I do no want the streetcar on 11th. I think if this streetcar is approve our local business and not to mention the residents will be the ones who suffer. There will be no parking, the construction will make the street a disaster area. The traffic is bad enough down this street because it is so narrow. How about taking the money and improving our parks or trax or something that will give back to the community and not the college students from West Minister. College students are temporary residents that come and go. They will NOT be here after they graduate. The residents of Sugarhouse will. Thank you for your time,
Jeanne Jardine
To whom it may concern: I am opposed to the light rail being built on 21st South. I do not want more commercial development along 21st South. There is already so much traffic on 21st East from the University of Utah. Light rail would not improve that situation, but would cause further delays. I hope you all have listened to the residents of Sugarhouse. I feel that almost everyone I talk to is opposed to this expansion of Light Rail. Thank you for all you do for our city.
Tim Bardsley
Dear City Council, As a resident of Sugarhouse neighborhood and a year round bicycle commuter, I would like to express my thoughts on the proposed Sugarhouse street car. First I believe it is very important to strongly consider bicycle safety in the engineering and alignment. Salt Lake City has taken considerable strides in becoming a bicycle friendly city and increased ridership is an important factor in improving our air quality, reducing congestion, and improving public health. This project has the potential to advance all of these goals, but without careful consideration, bicycle safety could fall victim to unintended consequences. Curbside alignment would pose a particularly hazardous citation for cyclists. I believe the 21st south alignment is a superior choice for both cycling safety and practical concerns. Not only can the 21st south right of way can more easily accommodate the street car in combination with auto and bike traffic, but it will also provide a more viable transportation corridor linking to Sugarhouse Park, Highland High, and beyond. Thank you for your consideration, Tim Bardsley Salt Lake City, UT
Stacey Lloyd
I just wanted to comment about the proposed trolley line up 2100S in Sugarhouse. I am opposed to the train continuing any further than originally planned. I do not want it going above 1300 E. I read the flyer that was sent and I'm not convinced that it would be a good use of tax payer and federal money. I do ride the bus to work. I catch it right at Highland High School and during the time students are exiting the same bus for school. I only see 10‐12 students that are using the bus to get to school. So having a trax line just for students doesn't make sense. Also, it will now pose a danger for the hundreds of students that walk to school and now will need to be aware of the Trax track (we all know that our teenagers are "plugged in"). It is not cost effective either for those professionals or university students that are now currently using buses to have a trax line. Buses run every 15 minutes and are very convienent and trax will not improve this, only cost more money. Plus I don't see an increase in riders. In this area, not many individuals are using public transportation since, as I talk to others, because it takes them longer and more inconvenient since we are so close to downtown and the University of Utah. I just wanted to give my views as this comes to a vote this evening. Thank you for your consideration, Stacey Lloyd
Gretta Millett
My main concern with the 2100 South Streetcar route is the safety for the children commuting to school. I dont believe the streetcar will be an asset to the commercial retail in our area. Most of 2100 South is residential which would cause traffic to spill into neighborhoods.
Kathryn Ball Van Wagoner
Please let us know if the residents who are opposed to this must stand with signs on 2100 south like the 1100 east residents did last week? We have made our voices heard (we thought) through emails and petitions. We are happy to trot out all of the hundreds of children who live in our neighborhood. Unlike the 1100 east neighborhood, the neighborhoods from 1700 east to 2300 east are primarily families with young children. I have been a resident of the neighborhood for 27 years and I have never seen so many young families as I am seeing presently. We will call the media on this as did the 1100 east retailers and residents…if that is what it will take. The Blue Plate Diner is the only business I know in favor of this proposal. Please let us know. We are all up to the fight.
Charlotte Wolff
I am a property owner with two rentals in the 900e and 900s area and rent to young professionals that often don't have cars and like taking public transportation because its easier and more efficient for them to do so. Connecting these two urban areas while maintaining the neighborhoods should be the goal of the sugarhouse trolley
Gretta B. Millett
I would like to voice my view against a railway on 2100 South. I have many reasons for this view, but primarily, I am very concerned with the fact that all school age children in our area, from grade school to high school are in close proximity to the rail line, and many would have to cross it daily. I do not believe that the businesses in the area would benefit, but safety is my main concern. Thank you so much for your representation, and I trust that you will represent this topic in a way that reflects the thoughts and wishes of this neighborhood.
Al Dieffenback
Dear Mayor and City Council Members, My name is Al Dieffenbach and I am a stake holder, landlord and business owner in the Sugar House neighborhood. My properties go from 1061 east 2100 south north to Hollywood Avenue and East to 1100 East. On the property is four businesses. All four businesses are owned locally and all are opposed to the 1100 east alignment of the streetcar. I have made an effort to contact the mayor via telephone to no avail so I will email this to him again. As a small business owner it is difficult to do business in a construction zone. This past January, February and March the alley between my restaurants and the Wells Fargo Bank was torn out to encase a leaking irrigation canal in pipe. The two week project lasted six plus weeks and isn't completed as of this date. During those six weeks my sales were down $22000.00 per week for a total of $132000.00. Construction impacts business! 1100 east is not the best route for the streetcar. The residents don't want it The business owners don't want it. The property owners or stake holders don't want it. The Salt Lake Tribune today stated that it was not the best route. Let us look into the future.... Along 2100 south are numerous high density apartments and condos presently. Along 1100 east are some four‐plexes but by far it is lined with single family homes. Does anyone remember why 1100 east is blocked northbound at 800 south because of the steepness of the hill cars couldn't stop in the winter to crossing traffic. A streetcar* would cause accidents at that intersection. I feel that the best route would be from Mcllelland eastward to the monument (perhaps up Sugarmont) past the park and for now to Highland high School, but in the future connect to Foothill Drive (nice and wide unlike 1100 east!) and then North to the University. This would connect the streetcar* with all major bus routes that are already in place going in the north/south directions. Please feel free to call me for more input. Thank you for your time, Al Dieffenbach 801‐463‐9393
Scott Olsen
Here's why I signed: 2100 South is already too crowded as it is! The nice part about the streetcar so far is that it used an existing right of way. Expanding it on to the already crowded streets doesn't make sense in terms of cost or benefit. Please do not extend it at all at this time.
Jeff Picket
Jeff Picket Jeff.picket.cpa@gmail.com I strongly oppose having a trolley line or a trax line run up 2100 S. Primarily my concern is gonna be kids, both little kids living in the houses along 2100 s and high school kids who attend highland. I’m not aware of any of these trax or trolley lines that run through residential neighborhoods and that is effectively what this would be. The traffic is already highly congestion, I doubt people wont use the line. It is my understanding that it is few bus lines because they are not in use, and if people are already not using public transportation what makes us think they will start using the trolley line.
Janet Stewart
My main concern with the 2100 South Streetcar route is the safety for the children commuting to school. I dont believe the streetcar will be an asset to the commercial retail in our area. Most of 2100 South is residential which would cause traffic to spill into neighborhoods.
Michael Garff
I voted for him and I live next to 2100 South and I don’t want the streetcar to come into the neighborhood.
Ahsley Larson
They just notified me about the whole situation. I live on 2100 E, for our kids sake. I don’t know why this would be worse. So I don’t know if that is helpful or not. Here is what I would prefer, I just want a minute to look because I got all these texts and messages. It wouldn’t be good for my neighborhood
No name
I'm very against the trolley going up 2100 s.
Maryann Silver
Adamantly opposed to the streetcar coming up 2100 s. WE don't want more commercial development. We have many children who would have to cross the railways. All you need is a good bus system. Please vote no for this streetcar up 2100 s.
Jim Boys
Concerned about the rail line extending up from Sugar House. I am concerned for my kids, they walk to school, they have to cross 2100 s. Its busy enough as it is. Adding a rail line is not a good idea.
Emily Bruder
Opposed to the potential commercial railway that would go on 2100 s. Children cross that street and will be crossing to go to Dilworth. It wouldn't be safe.
Suzanne Stensaas
Please extend it up 2100 south to Parleys and Walmart. This makes sense as it is wider and the east bench is desperate for transportation. Then hopefully we will get transportation along Foothill. I have been working on the East Bench Planning group dealing with Foothill. This will also support Sugarhouse businesses as well as the 21 and 21 districts. Sent from my iPhone Suzanne Stensaas
No name
My grandchildren cross to go to school at 21st and 21st and I fear for their safety, please address this issue
Katherine Roos
Dear Council Members, I have lived at 2019 East 2100 South now for 26 years and would like to stay. I have seen the speed limit decrease from 40MPH to 30MPH due to children and residential living. I have seen some extreme car accidents, I have seen children and pets get hit. We have personally experienced people losing control of their car and coming up on to our lawn and just miss hitting our house. We have a daily battle to get in and out of our driveway, we have lost all parking on the street and most recently (still getting through) an 18†city sewage backup in our basement. I am sure about now you are asking “Why don’t you move then?â€. We have not moved because of this fantastic neighborhood we love it. We have weathered all the storms knowing that this was a great place to raise our children and feel part of a great city. Now we are looking at having a street car come up 2100 south… I understand there has been a study done to look at the options and impact. Who did this research, who did they talk to, what was the criteria. I would love you to come to my house at three or so different times a day to observe how many children walk 2100 south to and from school, what it is like to cross 2100 south and most selfishly how hard it is to get in and out of my driveway. Do to the fact that I had a daughter get married on April 27th and the sewage clean up I have not been able to attend the informational meetings. I feel like I am a small voice against so many protesters from 1100 East. If I can assure you one important message is that we as residents are impacted, but this street car 24 hours a day and 7 days a week. We are not a business so I cannot go out a solicit my clients to come to a meeting to protest. I know that this is a last ditch effort, but I won’t feel good until I know that I have done all I can to have you please reconsider your vote tonight. Do you have to vote one way or another tonight? Can we please take time to look at all of the angles of this street car. Do we need a street car going up 2100 South or even a 1100 East? What is the long term effect of our residents and businesses? What is the long term plan for the street car? We have just cut out most of our bus routes in our neighborhood, will this effect that? Please feel free to contact me if you would like to discuss this further. I appreciate your time.
Robyn Rich
Dear SLC Council Members, I strongly disagree with moving forward on any plan at this time until further investigation has been conducted. The consulting firm appears to have been given a mission to conclude that 1100 East is the best route for the Streetcar; evidenced by online comments and the turnout of opponents at the April 23rd meeting. I, like many of my neighbors, have not had sufficient notice nor information about this project. I am currently highly opposed to the Streetcar on 1100 East; living on Hollywood Ave btw 10th and 11 East. I am also incredibly insulted by proponents for the Streetcar on 11th citing scare tactics and misinformation as the basis for my position on the issue. Though I have graduate level education, it is not necessary to understand that a streetcar on a narrow, two‐lane street will further congest an already congested location. Let us all try to keep our communications on a professional level, please. My family is flying out of town this evening, thus unable to attend the meeting. Please do not act against the wishes of your tax payers. We clearly require more information and input before there can be a final decision on this issue.
Tim Bardsley
As a resident of Sugarhouse neighborhood and a year round bicycle commuter, I would like to express my thoughts on the proposed Sugarhouse street car. First I believe it is very important to strongly consider bicycle safety in the engineering and alignment. Salt Lake City has taken considerable strides in becoming a bicycle friendly city and increased ridership is an important factor in improving our air quality, reducing congestion, and improving public health. This project has the potential to advance all of these goals, but without careful consideration, bicycle safety could fall victim to unintended consequences. Curbside alignment would pose a particularly hazardous citation for cyclists. I believe the 21st south alignment is a superior choice for both cycling safety and practical concerns. Not only can the 21st south right of way can more easily accommodate the street car in combination with auto and bike traffic, but it will also provide a more viable transportation corridor linking to Sugarhouse Park, Highland High, and beyond. Thank you for your consideration,
Ruth Todd
Opposed to 2100 south option • Change the face and feel of the neighborhood and all who live in it • This is a concern for all families particularly those with children
Havilah Martak
I would like to echo the sentiments of other cyclists and bike enthusiasts in saying that I would like to see cycling considered when dealing with streetcar alignment and route. We need to focus on creating safe and connected bike routes in our community. That area of the city is already extremely dangerous to travel through by bike. Please do everything you can to consider and account for cyclists in the design, route, and implementation of this project.
Diane Creamer
Opposed to the trax line coming up 2100 s. Its a huge mistake and will cost terrible tragedies with all the school kids crossing the street to get to Highland high, Dilworth, Beacon heights.
Samantha Shults
opposed 2100 south option • I have a business on 21st and 21st Custom Travel • Children’s safety • When you have easy transit you introduce more crime into the area • Following entries on the TRAX line with stolen luggage from the airport • Negative impact on neighborhood
No name
Do not vote to have the streetcar come up 2100 s. Too much residential up along the street.
Bruce Bradley
opposed to 2100 south option • There is a place for mass transit where a common good can be served however extend the car east ward just because federal funds is available is stupid. • This proposal only benefits the developers as a charming perk. • People in residential neighborhoods around the park and schools are appalled at our elected official and planners would even consider this ridiculous waste of money and time and resources • Bus service along 2100 south is great we on not want or need a streetcar.
Elizabeth Cook
Lucy Hawes
opposed to 2100 south option • Meant to be used to the University use it for and not bring it up near our children • Dos not make sense!
oppose to 2100 south option
Jill Anderson
I do not want the trolley coming up 2100 s or extend beyond Sugar House. WE have families and visitors who drive around already.
Charise Tire
I oppose the streetcar on 21st s. I have kids that cross that street every single day and it would be just too dangerous.
Michelle Park
I am against the trolley 2100 S. In the winter it takes you 20 minutes to tunr onto 2000 east the trolley would impact it further
David E leta
This comment is about the proposed “north†or “east†extensions of the Sugar House Streetcar route. I favor whichever route will support the highest anticipated (projected) number of users, meaning the route that will connect and carry the most prospective traffic. I think the north route is more likely to fulfill this criteria than the east route, especially if it can eventually be extended to the intersection of 9th South and 1100 East. Doing so would connect the growing 9th & 9th district to Sugar House, and also connect East High School to Sugar House. It also will allow for more commercial “intersection†growth at the 17th and 13th street intersec ons with 1100 East. Such development is more likely than at 1700 East, which is near Highland HS. In spite of the protests from local business owners on 1100 East, which is basically about the disruption of their businesses during construction (which the City can mitigate in tax rebates, special subsidies, etc.), in the long run these businesses will see an increase in revenues from the increased passenger count that a streetcar will bring to their storefronts. A plan like this needs to be visionary, not short‐sighted – and community leaders need to act accordingly, rather than bend to immediate pressure from any special interest group. I was on the committee (years ago) that determined the Main Street alignment of the Trax line. At the time, there was a considerable amount of opposition from Main Street business owners who wanted the Trax line on State Street. Now, looking back, they are glad the line is on Main Street, and not on State Street. The same thinking needs to be employed with the Sugar House line. Moreover, I think there are more logistical concerns with running the line to 1700 East, especially navigating the very congested 1300 East and 2100 South intersection. That said, I have not reviewed the demographic and use studies, which is the reason for my initial comment. One additional comment. The ultimate design of the rail line, whichever direction it goes, needs to be mindful of, and accommodate, bicycle traffic. Jamming a wheel in a rail line, and falling off a bike, is no fun. I presume this has been considered and a suitable design is in mind. The City also wants to encourage bike traffic, as well as streetcar traffic. Best of luck with this difficult decision.
Megan Stewart
opposed to 2100 south option • Do not see any benefits for neighborhood • Under 30 that is living in the neighborhood will not use it • I don not see the use of it in our neighbhood
Mark Sorensen
I am strongly opposed the streetcar going up 2100 s. I have children that go to Dilworth and I'm upset that you're making more hazards in their walk way. I think its a waste of money, we don't need trax going in our area. It will ruin our area. You're not giving the residents of the area to get a chance to realize what we're dealing with. I will never vote for anyone of the Council Members again. We are not being given time to react. 2100 s has no room for a railway.
Marylee
Opposed to the streetcar on 21st South
Cameron Jones
I am against the train car coming up 21st s.
No name
I live in Sugar House here and I am against the streetcar. There are many kids that cross that street for school, I think that the community lives here so that they don't have a trolley car here. Its a safety concern for the children.
Alicia Stewart
I strongly oppose to the 2100 south streetcar route.
Jessica Price
I am very opposed to trax coming up 2100 s. I feel like ppl here have cars and those who work here have cars. Its a huge huge mistake, our kids already have enough dangers. ITs going to hurt this area and the kids who are going to be the future leaders. This is not a good move at all. I hope you will consider that my voice stands for many neighbors.
Susie Palmer
Calling on behalf of the proposal to develop 21st s, I wanted to make my vote known that I am opposed to this development. I think it is a bad idea, and I'm more concerned about the safety of our kids, or something of that nature coming up in the streets.
No name
I just wanted to express my concern that citizens of the community do not want it. WE have to many schools around and transients can come by.
Becky Richards
I am against it, I am concerned already about the traffic and the children. I'm thinking there is a better way to accommodate to people coming up.
Kathleen Rice
Thank you for that information. Now I am more interested in the 1100 East Alternative, merely because this is a Trolley, after all. In the near future, however, I would like to see some improved transit serving the Eastern part of 2100 South. From the Report, it appears that bus and foot traffic there are still not convenient or, even, safe. Improvements will have to be comprehensive, and the Trolley will not solve the issues.
Peter Torres
I'm surprised how quickly this has seemed to be unfolding. A couple weeks ago was the first I ever heard of it and now a vote may be taken as early as this afternoon to decide whether or not it'll happen. It seems hastily put together.
Mike Weirden
I'm opposed to the extension of the 1100 e streetcar line. I'm also opposed to any other extension along 2100 s. I'm a UTA bus rider and i'm very happy with the bus service. Its seldom filled along the 2100 bus route.
No name
This is our neighborhood and not a business district. There are so many other things besides businesses that are overlooked. I'm opposed to the 2100 s street car.
Armid Cornell
I would like to see a streetcar going in the Sugar House neighborhood, its going to reduce traffic from state street to 1100 e.
Sue thomas
I am opposed to the Trax line coming up 2100 s. I'm opposed to it for the safety of the children and I don't think we need it in this area. We have bus service that is adequate.
Lynn Harrison
I attended the last council meeting that was held at the sprague library, at that meeting they said there'd be two trax lines, one going e on 2100 s and then turning around coming back on a different line. So that would mean there are 2 tracks. I have seen another picture that features only one lane. would like to know which is correct.
JB TAylor
I think 2100 South is a horrible idea. It totally disregards the safety of the kids that cross 21st south No on in our immediate community has been asking for this. People choose to be in our neighborhood because of the convenience. the idea of wainting for trolley cars won't be used by people.
Phyllis W. Hansen
I am extremely opposed to the streetcar going up 2100 S. to Highland High School and eventually Foothill. My understanding is that this event would endanger the homes along the route by changing the zoning laws to allow an influx of commercial properties that would eventually potentially take over the homes along the route. I am vehemently opposed to this from happening. There is such a wonderful, peaceful atmosphere in our neighborhood and I wish to protect it as much as I possibly can. Please do not allow this in our neighborhood. I also feel that undesirable and unintended consequences would occur from having a streetcar in our neighborhood. The noise pollution alone is a huge negative effect and I don’t think this route is one that would be used to make the expense of it worthwhile. Bussing is a much more flexible and economical solution, plus it can be modified according to changing needs. Thank you for your consideration.
Archie Phillips
Council Members, Regardless of where the streetcar goes, it is important to keep Westminster College in mind. That being accepted, a northbound line would need to go on 1100 E. or 1400 E. 1100 E. already has a greater number of commercial properties so it would be logical to use it for the northbound route. A good northbound connector for looping to the U might be 1900 E.