As part of construction of a new “collector-distributor” system — a stretch of new freeway lanes parallel to Interstate 15 in Sandy — 9000 South will close from Saturday at 6 p.m. until Sunday at 5 a.m.
The closure between I-15 and Monroe Street in Sandy will allow crews to pour concrete for a new bridge over 9000 South.
During the closure, drivers may access I-15 instead at 10600 South. Traffic on 9000 South will also be detoured to 10600 South.
The new collector-distributor system will be similar to one between 900 South and 2100 South in Salt Lake City. It will feature a three-lane freeway section separated from the I-15 travel lanes by a concrete barrier.
The collector-distributor will run parallel to northbound I-15 between 9400 South and the I-215 interchange and will improve access to I-215 and 7200 South. Officials estimate it will reduce crashes in the area by nearly 40%, and relieve one of the area’s biggest bottlenecks where traffic is slowed as cars cross lanes to enter or leave the freeway..
“Eliminating the cars weaving in and out of traffic between the 7200 South and I-215 interchanges will really enhance safety,” UDOT project manager Jessica Rice said. “This project will change the daily commute for the better.”
About 130,000 cars per day normally use northbound I-15 in this area.
When finished later this year, drivers on northbound I-15 will enter the new collector-distributor system prior to 9000 South. It will be the only way to access 7200 South and I-215 from northbound I-15.
UDOT is planning to construct another future collector-distributor system from Bangerter Highway to 9400 South. The environmental study is complete for that, but funding has not yet been allocated.
Construction schedules are weather-dependent and subject to change. Updated information about traffic restriction and highway construction statewide is available online at udottraffic.utah.gov or on the UDOT Traffic app for smart phones.
Follow @LeeDavi49903322