What Is a Station Area Plan?
A Station Area Plan (SAP) is a long-term planning document that looks at how areas around transit stations can grow and thrive.
In 2022, Utah state leaders recognized that the transit system along the Wasatch Front should play a bigger role in improving the quality of life for Utahns. With goals such as increasing affordable housing options, improving air quality, and reducing traffic congestion, the Utah Legislature passed HB462, encouraging cities with rail stations to create Station Area Plans.
An SAP focuses on the area within one half mile — about a 10-minute walk — of a UTA light rail or FrontRunner station. These plans examine how people access the station today and how the surrounding area can evolve in the future to better support transit use.
The primary goal of an SAP is to make it easier and more appealing for people to walk, bike, and use public transit. At the same time, SAPs encourage thoughtful growth — such as new housing, businesses, and places to shop or gather — near transit stations so residents and workers don’t have to rely on a car for every trip.
How Are Station Area Plans Developed?
Station Area Plans are created through collaboration. UTA works closely with local cities and Metropolitan Planning Organizations (MPOs) to develop plans that reflect community needs and regional goals.
Each SAP helps guide decisions about:
- Land use and zoning, including appropriate and desired uses near transit
- Infrastructure improvements that make it easier to reach transit and nearby destinations
- Access to housing, jobs, and services, including consideration of affordable housing needs consistent with a city’s Moderate Income Housing Plan (MIHP)
When a Station Area Plan includes property owned by UTA, additional coordination and approvals are required. These plans must be approved by the local municipality, certified by the MPO, reviewed by UTA's Local Advisory Council, and adopted by the UTA Board of Trustees before a development partner can be selected.
Why Do Station Area Plans Matter?
Station Area Plans help communities get the most value from transit investments. By planning ahead, cities can create safer, more walkable neighborhoods; expand housing choices; reduce traffic and emissions; and connect people to opportunity — all centered around high-quality public transportation.