Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is FrontRunner the same as UTA TRAX? 
   Commuter rail is not the same type of service as TRAX. TRAX is a "light rail" system, which typically have more frequent stops than commuter rail. Light rail is also typically used for trips that are shorter in duration.
   
   Light rail is powered by electricity and reaches top speeds of approximately 65 mph. The Weber County to Salt Lake City Commuter Rail Project will use diesel locomotives and two level passenger coaches to carry passengers. The top speed of the commuter rail system is 79 mph.
   
   
2. Where is the Provo to Salt Lake FrontRunner commuter rail line located?
   In September 2002, the Utah Transit Authority completed a purchase of 175 miles of railroad rights-of-way from Union Pacific Railroad. The rights-of-way stretch from Brigham City to Payson, preserving valuable rail corridors for decades of transit projects along the Wasatch Front.
   
   In Salt Lake County the line lies on the east side of the existing Union Pacific (UP) Railroad mainline tracks switching over to the west side as it enters Utah County.  The alignment will extend 44 miles.
   
   
3. When is the FrontRunner segment between Provo and Salt Lake City planned to be finished?
   Environmental work is currently underway and construction could begin as early as 2008. A firm date for completion has not yet been set but it will likely open in 2012 or 2013.
   
   
4. How is the FrontRunner project funded?
   In November 2006, residents in Utah County voted to increase their sales tax by $.0025 in order to fund the Provo to Salt Lake FrontRunner line. That action allowed the line to be accelerated by nearly 15 years.
   
   
5. How can FrontRunner benefit me?
   Traffic congestion along the Wasatch Front, and Utah County in particular, is an ever-increasing problem. With the population steadily increasing, transportation solutions are crucial to avoid further congestion. Commuter rail can provide a fast, comfortable and efficient transit alternative. In addition, UDOT is planning on reconstructing I-15 in Utah County, which will cause lane closures and additional delays. The train will offer a pleasant alternative to construction!
   
   
6. Can FrontRunner really save me time?
   During peak commute times, your commute on the train may be shorter than your time would be on the freeway covering the same distance. Trains typically average speeds of 60 miles per hour while traffic on I-15 may average 35 miles per hour during rush hour.
   
   
7. Where are stations planned for FrontRunner?
   Eight stations are currently proposed along the 44-mile Provo to Salt Lake City commuter rail line. Each station will have an 850-foot platform to accommodate a 10-car consist, park and ride lots and bus staging.  The proposed station locations include:
   
   - Salt Lake City: 200 South 600 West, at the City's intermodal hub
   - Murray: Vine Street/5300 South
   - Sandy/South Jordan: 10200 South
   - Draper/Bluffdale: Bangerter Highway
   - Lehi
   - American Fork: Main Street
   - Vineyard
   - Orem: University Parkway
   - Provo: University Avenue
   
   
8. How much may it cost me to ride FrontRunner?
   The fares may change before the Provo to Salt Lake segment of FrontRunner is complete but the charge in 2008 will be $2.50 to travel from one station to the next and $.50 for each additional station. Monthly passes will cost $145.
   
   
9. How often will FrontRunner trains run?
   Hours of operation will be 5 a.m. to 11 p.m, Monday through Saturday.  The train will operate on 15 minute headways in a.m. and p.m. peak periods and 30 minute headways in off-peak periods.
   
   
10. How could FrontRunner connect with other forms of transit?
    The stations along the commuter rail line are planned to have bus transfer sites, which may be similar to how riders transfer between bus service and TRAX. In addition, park and ride lots are proposed for each station.
    
    Intermodal Centers are transportation "hubs," offering connecting service to other forms of transit. Three of the proposed commuter rail stations are located at the site of proposed intermodal hubs, Vineyard, Orem and Provo.
    
    
11. Is safety on FrontRunner trains, at stations and in parking lots a concern?
    Safety has been and will always be a top priority for UTA, and the agency's bus and TRAX system have excellent safety records. Riders in other communities consistently report that safety is one of the primary reasons they ride commuter rail, and UTA is actively studying safety and security measures on the commuter rail vehicles, at the stations and in the park and ride lots.
    
    
12. Is FrontRunner accessible for people with disabilities
    Yes. Commuter Rail including its stations and park and ride lots will be compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act.
    
    
13. Can I give input on the FrontRunner commuter rail project?
    Yes. UTA wants commuter rail to be a "community rail" project and has implemented a pro-active public outreach program. Your comments and questions can be submitted through this website or by calling UTA at 1-877-UTA-RAIL. In addition, you can join a mailing list on this website to keep up to date with the project.