📰 What Happened: The Utah Department of Transportation unveiled a statewide bike trail plan that will prioritize cycling infrastructure on par with roads. With 500 miles already in place, the network would connect urban, suburban, and rural areas, boosting access and reducing car dependence.

🔍 A Closer Look: Funded by six tax sources, the plan targets key gaps in connectivity—from foothill trailheads to greenbelt loops—for safe, continuous rides through urban centers and iconic landscapes. It also supports tourism, recreation, and local mobility, while reducing traffic and parking pressures.

🧠 Why It Matters: As cities grapple with congestion, emissions, and living challenges, Utah’s bike-first strategy is a cultural pivot. The plan could catalyze economic, health, and environmental benefits—and set a precedent for more down-to-earth transportation systems nationwide.