Ogden 1-15 project one of the best i\ Commondation Comes After Construction Through City March 13, 2009 By MITCH SHAW Standard-Examiner Davis Bureau mishaw@standard.net OGDEN — Ogden's newly renovated portion of Interstate 15 was recently named one of the best construction projects of 2008. The 1-15 NOW project and the project's construction team, Granite Construction Inc., were recognized by the Associated General Contractors of America with the Aon Build America Award. The project was one of 13 winners from around the nation. "These projects are the very embodiment of the potential and promise of the nation's construction industry," said Doug Pruitt, the incoming president of AGC. The $264 million 1-15 reconstruction began in late 2005 and wrapped up in August 2008, three months ahead of schedule and under budget. The project area encompassed 10.5 miles from 31st Street in Ogden to 12th Street in Marriott-Slaterville, with crews expanding the freeway from three lanes to four. From 12th Street to 2700 North in Farr West, the project increased the number of lanes from two to three. The project also included newly designed interchanges and more room at entry points for drivers to gain speed or slow down when getting on and off the freeway. An overpass was added at 1800 North and a pedestrian bridge built at 700 North. Other improvements included new sound walls, traffic cameras, protective barriers between traffic, three electronic message boards and a fiber-optic system to help with traffic flow. "It will accommodate the residents of Weber County for many years to come," said Vic Saunders, UDOT Region One spokesman. "I think a lot of people agree it's one of the finest stretches of highway in Utah." Ogden Mayor Matthew Godfrey said the project made the highway not only more convenient for motorists, but also less risky. "It's clearly alleviated congestion," he said, "but ultimately, I think it will save lives, too, because it's a lot safer now." For more than 20 years, Aon Build America awards have recognized excellence in the construction industry. Award recipients are selected by a panel of national contractors. UDOT: Avoid 12th and 1200 West OGDEN—The Utah Department of Transportation has announced the construction on 12th Street will get more extensive this weekend. Today, construction crews will create a single traffic lane in each direction with a center turn lane while they remove all of the asphalt and excavate the failing road base, said Darin Dristrup, a UDOT Region One project manager. On Monday, southbound vehicles will be affected at the intersection of 12th Street and 1200 West while asphalt removal is done in that area. The intersection is expected to be affected for a week. UDOT officials ensure everything will be done to keep traffic moving as quickly as possible but suggests avoiding 12th Street if possible during the construction. Up-to-date information on the reconstruction project is available by calling (800) 676-1284 or by visiting www.udot.utah.gov/go/ 12thstreet. An Alert of Thingsto Come March 28, 2009 34