Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is FrontRunner the same as UTA TRAX? 
   Commuter rail is not the same type of service as TRAX. TRAX is a "light rail" system, which typically has more frequent stops than commuter rail. Light rail is also typically used for trips that are shorter in duration.
   
   Light rail is powered by electricity and reaches top speeds of approximately 65 mph. The FrontRunner Project will use diesel locomotives and two level passenger coaches to carry passengers. The top speed of the commuter rail system is 79 mph.
   
   
2. Where will the FrontRunner South line be built?
   The 44-mile FrontRunner South line will be constructed in the UPRR right-of-way on the east side of the existing track from Salt Lake City to 9800 South (Sandy) then transitioning to the west side of the track until Provo.
   
   
3. When will the FrontRunner South line be finished?
   A firm date for completion for the FrontRunner South line has not yet been set but could be open as early as 2013.
   
   
4. How is the FrontRunner project funded?
   In November 2006, residents in Utah County voted to increase their sales tax by $.0025 in order to fund accelerated work on four light rail projects and the FrontRunner South line. These projects were originally part of the Wasatch Front Regional Council’s 2030 Long-Range Plan. The additional funding accelerated the delivery of these projects 15 years earlier than projected.
   
   
5. How can FrontRunner benefit me?
   Traffic congestion along the Wasatch Front and Utah County in particular, is an ever-increasing problem. With the population steadily growing, transportation solutions are crucial to avoid further congestion. Commuter rail can provide a fast, comfortable and efficient transportation alternative.
   
   
6. Can FrontRunner really save me time?
   Yes. During peak commute times, your commute on the train may be shorter than your time would be on the freeway covering the same distance. FrontRunner trains have top speeds of 79 miles per hour; I-15 traffic may average 35 miles per hour during rush hour.
   
   
7. Where are stations planned for FrontRunner?
   Eight new stations are currently proposed along the 44-mile Provo to Salt Lake City commuter rail line. Each station will have a platform for boarding, park and ride lots and bus staging. While final station locations and configurations are being determined with municipalities, general station sites include:
   
   - Salt Lake: 200 South 600 West, at the Salt Lake Central Station (existing)
   - Murray: Vine Street/5300 South
   - Sandy/South Jordan: 10200 South
   - Draper/Bluffdale: Bangerter Highway
   - Lehi
   - American Fork: Main Street
   - Orem: University Parkway
   - Provo: University Avenue
   
   
8. How much may it cost me to ride FrontRunner?
   The fares may change before the Provo to Salt Lake segment of FrontRunner is complete. FrontRunner fares are distance-based. In 2008, FrontRunner cost a base fare of $3.00 to travel from the first station to the next and $0.50 for each additional station passed. Monthly passes in 2008 cost $160.
   
   
9. How often will FrontRunner trains run?
   In 2008, FrontRunner operates Monday through Friday from 4 a.m. to 1:30 a.m. with day-time trains every 30-minutes and hourly night trains. FrontRunner operates hourly on Saturdays from 6 a.m. to 1:30 a.m.
   
   
10. How could FrontRunner South connect with other forms of transit?
    The stations along the commuter rail line are planned to have bus transfer sites, which may be similar to how riders transfer between bus service and TRAX. In addition, park and ride lots are proposed for each station.
    
    Intermodal Centers are transportation "hubs," offering connecting service to other forms of transit (i.e. local bus, Bus Rapid Transit, etc.) Initially two station sites—Orem and Provo—would also be intermodal hubs. A future station site at Vineyard could also become an intermodal hub.
    
    
11. Is safety on FrontRunner trains, at stations and in parking lots a concern?
    Safety is a top priority at UTA. UTA’s buses, TRAX and FrontRunner systems have excellent safety records. Riders in other communities consistently report that safety is one of the primary reasons they ride commuter rail, and UTA actively monitors safety and security on the commuter rail vehicles, at the stations and in the park and ride lots.
    
    
12. Is FrontRunner accessible for people with disabilities?
    FrontRunner trains are compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Once the train is stopped at the south end of the platform, train attendants will place a boarding plate for low-floor boarding, if needed, for persons with disabilities.
    
    
13. Can I give input on the FrontRunner commuter rail project?
    Yes. UTA wants commuter rail to be a "community rail" project and has implemented a pro-active public outreach program. Your comments and questions can be submitted through this website or by calling UTA at 1-877-UTA-RAIL. In addition, you can join a mailing list on this website to keep up to date with the project.