en.Wedoany.com Reported - The Utah Inland Port Authority (UIPA) Board of Directors has approved $500,000 in new funding to support the relocation of the Salt Lake Garfield & Western Railway (SLGW) East Yard to a new interchange south of the Salt Lake City Airport. UIPA officials stated that the project will significantly reduce crossing congestion on the west side of Salt Lake City.

In 2018, the U.S. Department of Transportation awarded $13.65 million to the Utah Department of Transportation to support the project. Since then, estimated costs have risen to over $31 million; SLGW (a short line under Patriot Rail) will cover all expenses beyond the federal fixed share. Board officials said UIPA's contribution will offset these costs to ensure the project moves forward.

In February 2026, UIPA and Salt Lake City conducted a baseline study of the city's northwest quadrant, identifying transportation, freight, air quality, public safety, and neighborhood impacts as top priorities for west-side Salt Lake City communities. Priority investment recommendations were submitted to the UIPA Board and the Salt Lake City Council in March.

Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall stated that west-side residents have clearly indicated that crossing blockages and industrial impacts affect daily life, and that this project is a tangible step toward addressing these issues.

The project will benefit residents by reducing the frequency and duration of crossing blockages, improving local traffic flow, and lowering local emissions by reducing vehicle idling. It will also enable SLGW to better serve freight rail shippers and reduce truck congestion on regional roads. Utility work is underway, and construction is expected to begin this year.

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