Transportation challenges faced by residents of Pleasant Grove, Lindon, American Fork, Orem and Vineyard may be alleviated by a possible new corridor.

Called the Vineyard Connector, the corridor would run from Main Street in American Fork, along the west side of I-15, and connect to approximately 800 N. in Orem.

Geoff Dupaix, UDOT Public Involvement Coordinator, presented the plan at last week's Pleasant Grove City Council work session.

"The project is completely outside of Pleasant Grove," noted Mayor Michael W. Daniels.

While the corridor will not run through Pleasant Grove city, it will have an impact on residents.

According to UDOT's Web site, the Connector would pass close to Pleasant Grove's western boundary so city leaders and staff will be involved in the process.

"You have a tie-in at the interchange. You will be influenced by how this corridor develops," said Dupaix to the Council.

Lindon is included in the study area.

"When you imagine how much this area is going to grow, now is a good time to start looking at what types of solutions will be implemented," said Dupaix. "Because there is so much growth taking place in the county, we will coordinate with the Mountain View Corridor, Geneva Road, the East-West Connector and the I-15 Corridor."

Dupaix pointed out that the area for the proposed corridor is a narrow one. The corridor may have to cross over UTA's commuter rail. Additionally, there are wetlands and agriculturally protected land in the area.

Phase one of the project is currently underway, the scoping phase. UDOT is receiving public and agency input and identifying potential concerns, issues and projected traffic patterns.

Phase two is scheduled to run from March through November and will entail project planning, including an environmental study, environmental permitting and preliminary design.

"This is a very aggressive environmental schedule," said Dupaix.

An open house will be held on Feb. 13 at the Timpanogos Special Service District, 5050 W. 6400 North in American Fork from 5-7:30 p.m. According to Dupaix, there will not be a formal presentation, but materials and the project team will be on hand.

Residents are encouraged to comment on the project by calling 801-753-7343 or e-mail vineyard@ppbh.com. More information can be found at www.udot.utah.gov/vineyard.