It is difficult when waterline repairs, new construction of homes, and road repairs are happening near residents or where they often travel. North Salt Lake alone has 63 miles of streets and 128 miles of waterlines. Much of the infrastructure is 20 to 30 years old and in need of updates. Construction statewide is booming making it difficult to find reasonable bids that can be completed in a timely manner – prices are up and availability down. Understanding the reasons a project seems to be stalled, can help reduce the pain of driving slowly or being more significantly delayed moving around town. 

In Wood Cross, construction along 1100 West has seemed endless with reduced traffic flow (one lane) as the new water connections are set up for each house. Residents have no water for a short while, but at least have the hope that the connections of their home to the water supply system are sound and will now last for a few more decades. “Steady progress has been made on the project and the waterline connections should be complete within the next month,” said City Adminstrator Bryce Haderlie. Unfortunately, as soon as the water project is completed, the whole road will be torn up again as storm drains, gutter and sidewalk are provided for residents in the area. The storm drains will protect homes from flooding and divert the water to safe areas like the Great Salt Lake. This infrastructure is already existing in most WX neighborhoods and 1100 West will be beautiful and functional when everything is complete. 

If city projects aren’t enough to test residents’ patience, the 1-15 interstate going though North Salt Lake and Woods Cross is slated for reconstruction, though currently it is just being planned. Google Fiber, which offers high-speed internet, is also being installed in many neighborhoods. Residents should watch for door hangers letting them know when micro-trenches will be dug near them. 

New construction of both businesses and homes is booming. Since available housing is about 35,000 homes short statewide, the state passed a law requiring all cities to provide more affordable housing, usually taking the form of high-density projects around travel corridors. Argyle Acres along 1100 West is an example of this type of housing being built in Woods Cross. Though the noise and dust can be frustrating to nearby neighborhoods, these types of project will allow others to experience home ownership and will bring growth and vitality to the area. Another state law passed a few years ago encourages single-family homeowners to rent out part of their home to help alleviate the housing deficiency. Mother-in-law spaces, attic bedrooms and basement apartments can now become sources of income for homeowners. 

Builders are required to keep dust and debris down and only work from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. to keep the noise to waking hours. Residents should teport difficulties to the city so that these ordinances can be enforced. 

A recent Woods Cross newsletter sums it up. “Thank you for your patience during these projects that will ensure economic vitality and prosperity now and for years to come…ultimately the benefits will be worth a few growing pains.”