SECTION H
146th South to Jordan Narrows Trailhead
(Map in 2 parts)
Description
This is the longest gap in the Jordan River Parkway system; about 4.5-6 miles, depending on how the trail is routed. 
The north end of this gap is at 14600 South. North of that, the Springview Farms development is building the trail through their property on the east side of the river. (To be completed by July 2005) Another development group is working with Bluffdale City to include an equestrian trail and arena in their project, located on the west side of the river north of River View Drive (15730 South). The Narrows Trailhead at the south end is also on the west side of the river. Bluffdale City has recently acquired 30 acres for the trail on the east side. Bluffdale is taking aggressive action to purchase key pieces along the river. 
Bluffdale City has suggested a place for a bridge at about 15500 South which would span the river from one elevated spot to another, thus allowing good clearance of the river. Bluffdale City has an ironworkers group willing to donate and build a bridge. However, UDOT is considering a highway crossing in this area. Bridges for crossing the river should be coordinated to avoid unnecessary duplication.
The “ Jordan Narrows ” area is the least undisturbed portion of the river flowing in it's original meandering state. The trail should be kept up out of the bottoms and along the bluff to provide elevated views of the natural area.
What needs to be done
1. Determine trail location and design to fill in gaps. Beginning from the north end on the east side of the river, there needs to be a crossing for 14600 South. The trail would probably need to run parallel to the RR along 13th West or along the Jordan and Salt Lake Canal . This would be considerably east of the river because of a large land owner, who is unwilling to allow a trail along the river edge.
2. Finalize bridge location and obtain approvals. Coordinate with UDOT on highway and trail crossing.
3. Estimate costs.
4. Obtain funding and/or work with developers as they plan projects.
Concerns and Issues
Difficulties obtaining property, both costs and working with land owners.
There are environmental concerns, because this is the largest undeveloped area with wetlands and wildlife habitat.
Funding. Public Input
Most respondents ranked this section as medium-low priority.
Priority: high (1) – low (9) |
6 |
5 |
8 |
4 |
3 |
7 |
1 |
2 |
9 |
Number of Responses |
13 |
12 |
11 |
9 |
4 |
4 |
2 |
2 |
0 |
Summary of Public Comment
One comment made this area as a low priority; however, another said as much as possible such should be protected. Bluffdale City has recently acquired 30 acres. The 70 acre conservation easement at Springview Farms is completed. They have set aside $1.1 million to use for parkway improvements. A pedestrian bridge easement has been secured and the bridge is ordered. Work on the parkway trail is underway.
RECOMMENDATION
Bluffdale should be supported in its efforts to complete this section. It will take a lot of time, negotiations and funding to complete.
Coordinate with UDOT on highway and trail crossing.
Click links below to view maps
Map 1
Map 2 |