Utah County drivers will be able to use the new 2000 West in Pleasant Grove in about a year, thanks to an agreement between the city and Utah County.

"This is the culmination of years of work. About this time next year, 2000 West will be completed," said Mayor Michael W. Daniels.

The new five-lane road will start at 700 North in Lindon end at the boundary of Pleasant Grove and American Fork. Pleasant Grove has already started construction of the road, but couldn't finish it without help from the county.

Road construction has been divided into four segments. According to Clay, the county will acquire the right of way and build all five lanes in the third segment. The city will repay the county over a period of time -- yet to be determined -- with impact fees.

"We will own the road and we will reimburse the county the cost of right of way and the cost of the three center lanes," Clay said.

According to Clay, 2000 West is considered a road of regional significance because people other than Pleasant Grove residents will use it daily. That's why Utah County is helping with construction costs.

"The county decided to step in to help," said city attorney Tina Petersen. "Several sections are completed or under construction, but this major section is not completed," she said.

"The city simply doesn't have the money to finish the road," Clay said. "Pleasant Grove's section will cost roughly $18 million."

The road is expected to help commuters drive through the northern part of the county with greater ease.

"It will connect everything together," said Public Works Director Lynn Walker.

This story appeared in The Daily Herald on page D2.