Construction Update August 20, 2026

Zion Fiber Phase; Through August 27*, crews and equipment will operate in the following areas. No direct traffic impacts are anticipated for any location.

Hurricane – SR-9 Milepost (MP) 2-4:

• Crews will continue trenching underneath the roadway, installing junction boxes (conduit connectors that provide access points), and routing conduit around existing utility lines along the shoulder of eastbound SR-9.

Rockville – SR-9 MP 28-29:

• Crews will be drilling for conduit installation.

Mount Carmel – SR-9 MP 51-56:

• A crew will be connecting and tying into existing conduit along eastbound SR-9.

Springdale:

• Work is anticipated to begin next week at the west end of Springdale.*Construction schedules are subject to change due to weather, utility, and material delays.

Zion Fiber Phase II

Phase 2 of the Zion Fiber Optics Project along US-89 and SR-20 is anticipated to begin on Monday, August 24.

• Work will occur along US-89 between Mount Carmel and the US-89/SR-20 junction and continue onto SR-20.
• Operations will primarily occur in roadway shoulders, and drivers should expect minimal traffic impacts during construction.
• Pedestrians can expect occasional sidewalk detours.

Zion Canyon Fiber Optics Project Map (Phases I and II)

Motorcyclist, Cyclist, and Driver Safety Information

(No change since last update)

Please use caution and prioritize safety while traveling through the construction area. Avoid any equipment in roadway shoulders over the Independence Day holiday while work is paused.

• Stay alert and watch for any lane shifts, crews, equipment, and posted signage.
• Avoid distractions by refraining from using mobile devices while traveling through the project area.
• Maintain a safe following distance from the vehicle in front of you to allow for sudden stops or changes in traffic flow.

Project Overview (No change since last update)

The Utah Department of Transportation's Zion Canyon Fiber Optics Project will:

• Install over 50 miles of fiber optic cable along State Route 9 and the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway
• Support ITS devices such as traffic cameras, road signs, and weather stations
• Help expand and modernize the state's fiber optic infrastructure
• Enhance connectivity

Work began Wednesday, June 3, and is anticipated to be completed by December 2026.

Springdale work area and nearby project segments

Want the latest? Sign up for email updates by emailing zioncanyontechnology@utah.gov with “Subscribe” in the subject line. Travel impacts can be found on the UDOT Traffic Website, www.udot.utah.gov/traffic, or by downloading the UDOT Traffic App.

HOTLINE 855 663 6800 WEBSITE udotinput.utah.gov/ziontechnology