BY MICHELLE RUDD

Clipper Correspondent



CENTERVILLE -- Centerville commuters are a little better off thanks to some changes made to the Parrish Lane overpass.

Originally the overpass had only three lanes, which caused traffic to back up excessively during rush hours. In addition, traffic signals were not equipped with a turn arrow. Access to southbound I-15 was especially troublesome.

Some commuters had to wait through as many as seven signal changes before they got on the freeway.

In November, UDOT made some changes that helped alleviate the traffic congestion.

A fourth lane was added which eliminated the need to merge at the base of the overpass. Traffic lights with left turn signals were added at two intersections.

"The changes have alleviated the traffic problems for now," says City Manager Steve Thacker. "But who knows how long it will be before growth leads to new problems."

Centerville petitioned UDOT for a larger overpass. However, UDOT opted for these signal and lane changes instead. The overpass is scheduled for renovation in 10-12 years and may be widened at that time. For now, Centerville residents may not have a bigger overpass, but they are much happier with their morning commute.