The Local Community News from KPCW

KPCW is the only not-for-profit source of daily news across Summit and Wasatch counties and is proud to highlight a few recent articles that reflect the happenings in our vibrant, eclectic and engaged community. 

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UDOT will build bypass through Wasatch County’s North Fields

By Grace Doerfler

The Utah Department of Transportation will build the Heber Valley bypass route through Wasatch County’s North Fields.  

UDOT says the route will have a greater impact on wetlands and farmland but will better address the county’s traffic concerns.   

The route will divert vehicles away from U.S. 40 at Potter Lane and move traffic west to reconnect with U.S. 40 and U.S. 189 south of Heber. 

UDOT leaders say they will commit to conserving at least two acres of the North Fields for every acre of wetland affected by the highway.

Construction is expected to cost at least $760 million. 

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Wasatch County School District offers path to diploma for students in jail

By Grace Doerfler

Wasatch County jail inmates can further their education through the  county school district’s adult education program.

The program provides a pathway for anyone 18 and older to earn the equivalent of the General Education Development test, or GED. It’s designed to meet students where they are, regardless of educational background. 

Kathy Carr, a leader at the Wasatch Education Foundation, teaches the weekly classes.

Wasatch Alternative High School Principal Tod Johnson says the classes can be a lifeline for individuals in jail. It also sets them up for greater success later in the form of better jobs, college or other training.

Wasatch County US 189 closures expected through winter 

By Grace Doerfler

Wasatch County drivers can expect periodic delays on U.S. 189 this winter as the Utah Department of Transportation widens the highway. 

U.S. 189 will grow from two lanes to four along Deer Creek Reservoir. 

UDOT will be blasting and excavating along the hillside to make room. The highway will close daily Monday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m for the blasting.

During those periods of blasting, all lanes will be closed between Charleston and Wallsburg. 

The project is expected to be finished by fall 2027.

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