Celebrating the Grand Opening of Our New Pedestrian Bridge!

I am thrilled to announce that our much-anticipated Pedestrian Bridge is now officially open! As your Mayor, I had the honor of being part of today's Grand Opening, marking a significant milestone for our beloved city. This bridge is not just a pathway but a symbol of connectivity and progress for Provo.

Located at the Provo Central Station at 610 S. Freedom Blvd., the bridge is a testament to our commitment to improving safety, air quality, and ensuring seamless access to the Wasatch Front regional transportation network. The inconvenience and danger posed by the frequent blockage due to freight trains at approximately 600 South and 100 West are now a thing of the past.

We are proud to have completed this structure, a 145-foot-long safe passage that soars over two FrontRunner tracks and two Union Pacific Railroad lines. The inclusion of stairs with a “bike runnel” on both sides will allow you to wheel your bikes up and down the staircases easily. The bridge is now open to the public, with the exception of the elevators which still need to complete state inspections. Inspections are anticipated to be completed within the next couple of weeks, at which point the bridge will become fully operational.

This $7 million project, funded by 35% federal and 65% local resources, is a collaborative effort. I extend my heartfelt thanks to the Utah Transit Authority (UTA), Utah Department of Transportation (UDOT), Mountainland Association of Governments (MAG), and all the distinguished representatives who have supported this venture.

To all our residents, I invite you to make the most of this new addition to our city's infrastructure. Whether you're a commuter, a cyclist, or simply out for a stroll, this bridge is for you—designed to enhance your travel experience and to encourage a shift towards more sustainable transportation options.

Let's celebrate this achievement together and continue to work towards making Provo an even more connected and vibrant community.

Happy Veterans Day 🇺🇸

Happy Veterans Day! Today, we rejoice in the bravery and steadfast commitment of our Veterans, who have selflessly dedicated their lives to safeguarding our nation's freedom and values. As the Mayor of Provo City, I am filled with pride for the unwavering spirit that resonates throughout our community, especially towards those who have donned the uniform of service.

On Wednesday, at Timpview High School, I had the immense honor of addressing a gathering of our esteemed Veterans, alongside the bright students who represent the future of our city. The Veterans Day Tribute was not just a ceremony but a heartfelt thank you to those who have given so much.

I'd like to share the essence of my speech from the Tribute with all of you on my blog. It's a message that resonates beyond Veterans Day—it's a call to each of us to honor our commitments, to serve, to contribute, and to uphold the promises we make.

I spoke of commitment—a commitment as unwavering as that of our veterans. "Because I said I would." This phrase, taped to my computer, has been my daily reminder since my days on the Provo School District Board of Education. It journeyed with me to City Hall, a constant prompt of the promises I've made to serve our community with integrity.

Our Veterans live this commitment. They've pledged their lives with a "Because I said I would" resolve, displaying a selflessness that is the cornerstone of our nation’s values. Their sacrifices, courage, and determination exemplify the highest form of patriotism.

To our Veterans: your service is the foundation upon which we stand to build a stronger, more compassionate community. To our residents: let’s carry this message of dedication and honor in our hearts, not just today, but every day.

Happy Veterans Day to all, and to our Veterans, thank you for your service and for living the powerful ethos of "Because I said I would."

Join Us for a Pioneer Christmas in Provo 🎄

As the festive season approaches, I am thrilled to share with you the return of a cherished tradition in our city—A Pioneer Christmas at the Provo Pioneer Village.

Mark your calendars for December 8th, 9th, and 11th! On these special days, from 5:00 to 8:00 PM, we invite you to step back in time and experience the holidays as the Irish pioneers did. The Village gates will open wide to welcome one and all to an old-fashioned Celtic Christmas celebration.

I'm particularly excited about the program featuring the Shelley School of Irish Dance. Their performances are scheduled at 5:30 PM, 6:16 PM, and 7:00 PM in the Carriage House and promise to be a delightful spectacle of talent and tradition.

Admission to this heartwarming event is free, with a suggested donation of $2 per person or $10 per family to assist with our operating costs. Your generosity helps us maintain the Village as a historical treasure for Provo.

During your visit, all cabins will be open for viewing, showcasing the simplicity and beauty of pioneer life. You'll be captivated by storytelling sessions, blacksmithing, and crafting demonstrations. Warm refreshments will be available to enjoy as you wander, and don't miss the opportunity to meet Father Christmas himself!

Parking is conveniently located at the Provo Recreation Center and Timpanogos Elementary School, with additional Disability parking spots situated between the Museum and Village.

And there's more good news! In conjunction with our Pioneer Christmas, the D.U.P. Museum is hosting a Christmas Gift Shop. It's a perfect opportunity to find unique gifts while supporting local history and artisans.

For more information, please visit our website at provopioneervillage.org Join us in making memories that will last a lifetime as we honor our city's heritage and celebrate the joy of the season.