The SLGW West Interchange has entered construction in Salt Lake City, launching a $31 million freight rail project designed to reduce blocked crossings in Poplar Grove.

Officials break ground for the SLGW West Interchange in Salt Lake City
Utah and rail industry leaders at the groundbreaking for the $31 million SLGW West Interchange. Photo: Patriot Rail Company.

The Utah Department of Transportation and Patriot Rail Company⁠ held the groundbreaking on July 17 for the new interchange south of Interstate 80 and Salt Lake City Airport. The project will move train-building and switching activity from the Salt Lake, Garfield and Western Railway’s main East Yard to a new western location. 

SLGW West Interchange funding and construction

The funding package combines a $13.65 million federal grant, more than $17 million committed by Patriot Rail and a $500,000 contribution approved by the Utah Inland Port Authority. UDOT and Patriot Rail will jointly administer construction, while Paragon Construction Systems has received the principal construction contract. 

Track and other materials have already reached the site, and the notice to proceed has been issued. The partners expect construction to finish by the end of 2027. 

The project has developed over several years. In May, the Utah Inland Port Authority⁠ said the federal component originated with a grant awarded in 2018 for the Northwest Quadrant Freight Mobility Project. Rising costs subsequently increased the program value to more than $31 million.

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SLGW West Interchange targets crossing delays

Switching operations at the East Yard can hold road traffic at crossings in Salt Lake City’s West Side neighborhoods. Moving those activities west is intended to shorten delays on routes including North Temple and improve access for residents, businesses and emergency vehicles.

Freight train blocks a road crossing in Salt Lake City’s West Side
A freight train blocks a West Side road crossing before the SLGW switching relocation. Photo: Utah Inland Port Authority.

Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall said the relocation should bring “much shorter waits and fewer long backups on North Temple” while allowing freight trains to continue using the corridor. 

The project is also expected to reduce vehicle idling near blocked crossings, supporting localized air-quality improvements. At the same time, the new interchange should increase operational fluidity and strengthen competitive rail access for regional shippers. 

Patriot Rail expands its Salt Lake City network

Patriot Rail acquired SLGW in 2020 and has since expanded related freight and logistics services in the region. The company says its Salt Lake City investments have exceeded $122 million over six years. 

SLGW is part of Patriot Rail’s short-line network⁠, which includes 31 railroads and more than 1,200 miles of track across 23 states.

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