Double-tracking project advances to the Engineering phase of the Federal Transit Administration’s Capital Investment Grants program
SALT LAKE CITY (Aug. 7, 2026) — The Federal Transit Administration today approved FrontRunner 2X to enter the Engineering phase of its Capital Investment Grants program, moving the project closer to securing nearly $1.3 billion in federal funding.
“This project is the latest example of how the Trump Administration is committed to delivering real support for real infrastructure that improves the lives of real Americans,” FTA Acting Deputy Administrator Matthew Cahill said. “As one of the fastest growing areas in the country, meeting this milestone demonstrates how Utah leadership cares about its citizens by investing in transit that will serve the region for generations to come.”
FrontRunner 2X is a partnership between the Utah Department of Transportation and Utah Transit Authority to expand double tracking along the FrontRunner corridor. The improvements will allow trains to run more frequently and reliably as Utah’s population continues to grow.
The project will add 26.1 miles of double track in 11 locations, a new station, 10 trainsets and a new maintenance facility. Once complete, these improvements will support 15-minute service during peak periods and 30-minute service throughout the day.
“This milestone is a major step forward for Utah. We are grateful to the U.S. Department of Transportation and Utah’s congressional delegation for their partnership and shared commitment to Utah’s future,” UDOT Commissioner Carlos Braceras said. “Utah is growing quickly, and preparing for that growth requires a balanced transportation system that goes beyond highways.”
Entry into Engineering allows UDOT and UTA to continue advancing the project’s design, early procurement and completion of other federal requirements as they work toward a Full Funding Grant Agreement with the FTA.
“The FrontRunner Double Tracking Project is a transformative investment in Utah’s future,” Sen. John Curtis, R-Utah, said. “I am proud to have worked so closely with U.S. DOT and FTA to bring Utah one step closer to delivering more frequent, reliable rail service for families and commuters, and better-prepare our state to host the 2034 Winter Olympics.”
“More frequent and reliable FrontRunner service will make transit a practical choice for people along the Wasatch Front,” UTA Executive Director Jay Fox said. “For our riders, this project means shorter waits, more frequent trains, and a more dependable trip. Working alongside UDOT, we’re delivering the kind of transit network Utah will need for decades to come.”
Construction is anticipated from 2027 through 2030, subject to completion of the federal grant process.
