JFA staff, in association with Metro Analytics, completed a corridor study for the SR-9/SR-17 corridor in the City of La Verkin, Utah. Mr. Matheney served as project manager, helping the city address the future direction of this corridor, which leads to Zion National Park. The team met with key local stakeholders to gather input on the future of this rapidly growing corridor, reviewed existing development plans, and collected data on existing traffic volumes, crashes, level of service, and other criteria. The project team then identified the desires and needs of the community and developed solutions to address those needs.

The study evaluated existing facilities and provided recommendations and strategies to help the community and UDOT achieve their goals, including a vision for walkability with street trees, a vibrant downtown area, and recreational activities; promotion of mixed-use tourist economic development districts; enhanced roadway network connectivity and alternative intersection concepts; and development of a one-way couplet to create a functional downtown area. These strategies gave the La Verkin community a safer, more connected community that maintains its small-town feel while growing sustainably and increasing economic attractiveness for small and medium local businesses, while also enhancing the “entrance” to Zion National Park for visiting tourists.