Overview
- SB 242, introduced this week, would create a four-tier road system, require UDOT approval for changes on higher-tier corridors, and add limits on reducing on-street parking within a larger oversight area of the city.
- The bill directs officials to mitigate impacts from recent projects on 200 South, 400 South and 300 West, prompting concerns that new bus and bike lanes could be rolled back even as sponsors say removals are not intended.
- Salt Lake City Council members criticized the measure as undermining local control and traffic safety efforts, while advocacy group Sweet Streets urged residents to contact lawmakers to oppose the language.
- Senate leaders argue the capital warrants different treatment because its streets serve regional commuters and must maintain traffic flow, emergency response and business access.
- The proposal follows 2025 legislation that increased state scrutiny of city projects, and it is early in the legislative process with ongoing talks between Sen. Wayne Harper and Mayor Erin Mendenhall ahead of a March 6 deadline.