UTAH COUNTY, UTAHTHE COUNTY EMBRACING GROWTH AND INNOVATION WWW.UTAHCOUNTY.GOV
THE COUNTY EMBRACING G AND INNOVAT UTAH COUNTY, UT AT A GLANCE UTAH COUNTY, UTAH WHAT: A vibrant state county embracing growth and innovation through economic diversification and meticulous planning. WHERE: U tah County, Utah, United States WEBSITE: www.utahcounty.gov 1 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 07
GROWTH TION Economic diversification and meticulous planning lay the foundation for future expansion in a state known for its natural splendor For the residents of Utah County, Utah, collaboration is the key to success, laying the foundation for a dynamic future to look forward to. County leadership emphasizes strengthening partnerships between local governments, educational institutions, and businesses to drive economic development and attract investment. Strategic infrastructure projects, such as expanding the transportation network and enhancing water and power systems, are also critical to support the county’s 2 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 07
growing population and are a clear indicator of the keen foresight at play in the county’s growth strategy. Education and workforce development are also key pillars of success. With five major universities within its boundaries, Utah County continues to invest in education programs to attract and retain talent. By nurturing a skilled workforce, the county can sustain a thriving business environment that encourages innovation. Additionally, promoting a diverse range of industries, from tech and manufacturing to agriculture and hospitality, will ensure economic resilience and sustainability. At its core, the county’s strategy is meant to support a quality residential lifestyle. So a big part of the county’s plans included creating walkable neighborhoods, preserving green spaces, and providing ample recreational opportunities. Success for Utah County means a dynamic, inclusive community where people can live, work, learn, and play harmoniously. It ultimately looks like a place where innovation and tradition coexist, economic opportunities are abundant, and where the natural beauty and vibrant culture create a thriving, desirable environment for all. THE ECONOMIC SPIRIT OF THE COUNTY Utah County, located about an hour south of Salt Lake City, is renowned for its vibrant community and picturesque landscapes. Birthplace of the Sundance Film Festival, the county boasts a population of approximately 750,000, characterized by its youthful demographic. The presence of five major universities, the two most well-known being Brigham Young University and Utah Valley University, also contributes to a dynamic and forward-moving environment. The county also maintains a unique blend of agriculture and urban living, where residents can 3 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 07 UTAH COUNTY, UT
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FOR THE BENEFIT OF THE WORLD On the way to Arlington National Cemetery, nursing students from Brigham Young University assist military veterans participating in the Honor Flight Program. As they care for those who sacrificed for freedom, they see firsthand how people need more than medicine to fully heal. Learning by study, by faith, and by experience, we strive to be among the exceptional universities in the world and an essential university for the world.
LIFE AND BREATH BYU students gain skills and perspective in Nepal. With each breath, brick workers in Nepal’s Kathmandu Valley inhale dangerous particulates. From hazardous aerosols released in the brickmaking process to emissions from vehicles and factories, air pollution in the region is inescapable. Concerned about the effects of these exposures, an interdisciplinary team from Brigham Young University came together to conduct a research study in Nepal, aiming to measure brick workers’ exposure to pollutants and to assess their respiratory health.The eventual objective is to determine what strategies they can develop with the Nepali people to improve their well-being. “We all have a common goal, and our unique ways of learning are creating this big-picture effect,” says BYU nursing student Symbria Lewis. The BYU group drew from many areas of expertise. Faculty and students in nutrition, dietetics, and food sciences performed health assessments.The nursing team collected saliva and blood samples. The public health group fitted workers with air pollution monitors. Cell biologists analyzed blood serum for inflammatory responses to exposure. BYU engineers assessed community development challenges. Hands-on, collaborative learning experiences like the one in Nepal are extremely valuable for students—and for their future employers, says Jodi Chowen, managing director of Careers & Experiential Learning at BYU. “What employers are really looking for now is fit with their culture and experience with others in unique circumstances. These experiences provide that.” BYU is a private university in Utah sponsored by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Chowen says employers love BYU students because of their experience and maturity, often stemming from serving missions for the Church around the globe.“So often when employers engage with our students, they say, ‘Wow, we need more of them.’” BYU hosts the largest career fairs in the state of Utah, with hundreds of employers and thousands of students. Chowen says employers also find other ways to connect with and mentor BYU students.The Big Four accounting firms regularly recruit on campus, and BYU students have frequent engagement with organizations like Goldman Sachs, Northrop Grumman, Proctor & Gamble, Texas Instruments, Toyota, Walmart, and many of the US National Laboratories. Chowen invites employers to get to know BYU students, like those who have done work in Nepal or those who take veterans to Washington, DC, or those who help children with autism develop social skills. “Come and see,” Chowen says. “See the good, see the light that these students are bringing.” Info: Visit careers.byu.edu/employers or register on Handshake to connect with BYU career fairs and other opportunities for employers.
enjoy a seamless integration of work and recreation. “We still have thriving areas where you could live and walk to your place of employment as well,” says Utah County Commissioner Brandon Gordon. With abundant recreational opportunities and breathtaking scenery, Utah County offers an exceptional quality of life, and a large factor behind that quality involves the county’s economic development and pro-worker ecosystem. “Truly what’s fueling our prosperity is a robust workforce ecosystem that is built on two very important attributes: collaboration and innovation,” explains President and CEO of the Utah Valley Chamber of Commerce Curtis Blair. The county has established a strong partnership network involving cities, counties, and regional organizations, fostering a dynamic collaboration between various stakeholders. This cooperative spirit is crucial in reinvesting in education programs, retaining talent, and nurturing a thriving business environment. Utah County is home to five major universities. Other than Brigham Young and Utah Valley, the county also hosts niche institutions like Rocky Mountain University, the Noorda College of Osteopathic Medicine, and Mountainland Technical College (MTech). These institutions play a pivotal role in attracting and retaining skilled individuals, further enhancing the county’s appeal for investment and growth. The combination of educational excellence and a collaborative business environment positions Utah County as a desirable location for businesses and residents. COMMUNITY PROMOTION AND DEVELOPMENT Utah County’s strategy for promoting its community focuses on promoting the region as the optimal place to live, work, learn, play, and raise a family. “Our main focus is trying to make the best environment possible… and to truly adopt all of the best planning and land use practices that we can,” says Utah County Administrator Ezra Nair. The sentiment behind this goal is quite simple. 7 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 07 UTAH COUNTY, UT
traditional media,and partnerships with organizations like the Utah Valley Chamber of Commerce and the Economic Development Corporation of Utah (EDCUtah). This multifaceted approach ensures that the county reaches a wide audience, effectively communicating Residents should be able to enjoy the recreational and work-related opportunities available to them without transportation and accessibility being an issue. The county employs a diverse mix of communication platforms to market itself, including social media, 8 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 07
Additionally, the inland port in the Spanish Fork area, known as the Verk (Icelandic for job, work, or creation) Industrial Project, is set to significantly enhance infrastructure, including water, power, sewer, and road widening projects. The county is also expanding its transportation network. “It’s called the housing and transit reinvestment zone (HTRZ) that the state has helped partially fund to help bring additional tax dollars and incentivize development in [certain] areas so that people have more options to get around the state without necessarily having to be stuck in traffic all the time,” Nair explains. The Provo Regional Airport is increasing its flight offerings as well, including international routes, and partnerships with the state are driving investment the benefits and opportunities available in the region. The Provo metropolitan area, for instance, has been rated the number one city in the nation by the Milken Institute, reflecting the county’s overall appeal. The county’s diverse tech sector, high-growth cities like Lehi and Vineyard, and established areas like Provo and Orem also contribute to its attractiveness. So, with these attractions and preparations for the 2034 Olympics underway, infrastructure development is a key focus for Utah County, with several major projects underway or in planning stages. The South Utah County water line project, spearheaded by the Central Utah Water Users, aims to address water supply issues, especially during dry years. 9 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 07 UTAH COUNTY, UT
FIRM PROFILE For more than 55 years, Horrocks has been an integral part of designing and improving infrastructure for communities throughout the United States. As a full-service civil engineering and professional services firm, we provide all of the disciplines necessary to study, plan, and design infrastructure projects — from utilities to roads to structures. We involve clients, community leaders, and the public when making decisions. Together, we create solutions to complex problems, providing reliable and essential infrastructure that will endure for generations to come. Horrocks provides a full spectrum of civil engineering, planning, and design services. WHAT WE DO MATTERS From humble Utah County roots, Horrocks has become one of Utah’s premier civil engineering firms and has been a part of improving communities along the Wasatch Front since 1968. First offering water resource services in American Fork, UT, the firm has since expanded its offerings - and its footprint - now providing comprehensive civil services including transportation and transit design, community infrastructure, wireless and fiber telecommunication design, and a robust suite of technology solutions. Horrocks’ Chief Revenue Officer, Shane Marshall, currently serves on the Spanish Fork City Council, affording him a unique, dual perspective on the firm and its roots. “Throughout my six years at Horrocks, I’ve witnessed the remarkable influence our company has had in our communities. In turn, I have seen how this work has elevated Horrocks as a firm and a community partner.” A truly symbiotic relationship, each has lifted the other, and the success is shared not only between them, but by the community as well. “As a firm deeply rooted in service, we take a lot of pride in helping Utahans connect to services that improve their quality of life,” Marshall added. Horrocks spans 26 locations throughout the western U.S., with a team of nearly 900 employees.
in commuter rail and light rail systems. The FrontRunner line, the main commuter rail, is being developed to include more work hubs along the line to reduce traffic congestion. Furthermore, efforts are underway to connect the two main airports in the state and improve east-west transportation links, particularly in rapidly growing areas like Eagle Mountain and Saratoga Springs. “We’ve tried to help encourage the cities to take the bulk of the development… it’s really helped to disperse the load of having too many government entities trying to do too many different things,” Nair says. Having the cities themselves direct development is an excellent way to ensure that the work being done is best aligned with any given city’s specific needs, and shows the multi-faceted nature of the county’s development strategy. BUILDING FOR TOMORROW, TODAY Looking ahead, Utah County has several exciting developments on the horizon. The new regional sports complex in Provo, set to include facilities for pickleball, soccer, lacrosse, and tennis, is anticipated to attract visitors from around the world. The complex’s completion will significantly boost local tourism and economic activity and has even inspired consideration from county leadership to develop more hotel space to accommodate the inevitable influx of people, both residents and tourists alike. According to Blair, this new complex is lining up to be a project “the likes of which people have never seen in the intermountain west.” 11 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 07 UTAH COUNTY, UT
Bringing Comprehensive Cancer Research and Care to Utah Valley and Beyond In June 2023, Huntsman Cancer Institute at the University of Utah announced a plan to build a comprehensive cancer center in Vineyard, Utah County. Cancer is the second-leading cause of death in Utah and the United States. As the federally designated Comprehensive Cancer Center for the Mountain West, Huntsman Cancer Institute meets the highest national standards for seamless integration of cancer research and care. Our focus on the genetic basis of cancer advanced precision cancer treatments used worldwide. Innovative programs in digital oncology at our Vineyard campus will examine how we can best serve cancer patients who live far from a major medical center. Proximity to Brigham Young University, Utah Valley University, and other institutions opens new pathways for students interested in cancer research and health care careers. A location in Utah’s technology hub will provide additional opportunities for business collaborations focused on eradicating suffering caused by cancer. “We call this ‘Project Unite,’ as it is truly a partnership, collaboration, team, and commitment of all of us together, linking arms to improve the health of our communities.”–Mary Beckerle, PhD, CEO of Huntsman Cancer Institute huntsmancancer.org/vineyard LEARN MORE TRAIN STUDENTS in collaboration with UVU and BYU GENERATE BUSINESS and innovation opportunities ADVANCE FRONTIERS in cancer research and education ENHANCE ACCESS to world-class cancer care We’re opening a new campus in Vineyard that will ... COMPREHENSIVE CANCER RESEARCH AND CARE HUNTSMAN CANCER INSTITUTE is bringing to UTAH COUNTY.
77% of UVU alumni live in Utah 10 years after graduation. 83% of UVU alumni work in Utah one year after graduation. UTAH’S WORKFORCE STARTS HERE * UVU Business Intelligence and Research Services 10,197 graduates were honored at commencement 2024. 96% of graduates said their experiences at UVU were good or excellent. uvu.edu The Provo Regional Airport is also due for an expansion which is set to include new flights by American Airlines, positioning it as a major secondary airport in the region. This development will undoubtedly synergize well with any plans to improve transportation and hotel/ living accommodations. Additionally, the potential return of the Olympics in 2034 and the revival of outdoor retailer conventions highlight the county’s growing prominence on the national stage. Utah County’s appeal is further bolstered by major corporations like Adobe, Qualtrics, Nu Skin, and Boeing, which all hold significant conventions in the area. So, when taking into account this combination of world-class amenities, strategic infrastructure projects, and a collaborative business environment, it becomes clear that Utah County will remain an appealing destination for businesses, residents, and visitors alike. Utah County’s blend of youthful energy, collaborative spirit, and strategic development projects positions it as a beacon of development and novelty. As the county continues to attract investment, enhance its infrastructure, and promote its unique 13 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 07 UTAH COUNTY, UT
qualities, the future looks incredibly promising. With a focus on creating a thriving, diverse, and dynamic community, Utah County is set to achieve new heights of success and prosperity. PREFERRED VENDOR/PARTNER n Brigham Young University www.byu.edu/fortheworld BYU’s 34,000 students pursue nearly 200 undergraduate majors and 130 graduate programs as they seek learning by both study and faith. BYU students strive to be disciples of Jesus Christ, sharing light and love with God’s children throughout the world. n Horrocks Engineering www.horrocks.net For 55 years, Horrocks has led infrastructure design and improvement efforts for clients throughout the West. A full-service civil engineering and professional services firm, we study, plan and design myriad infrastructure projects. Our custom technology solutions bolster those efforts, enhancing project delivery and improving efficiency, collaboration, and communication throughout the project lifecycle. n Huntsman Cancer Institute www.huntsmancancer.org/vineyard Huntsman Cancer Institute at the University of Utah is the National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center for Utah, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, and Wyoming. With a legacy of innovative cancer research, groundbreaking discoveries, and world-class patient care, we are transforming the way cancer is understood, prevented, diagnosed, treated, and survived. n Utah Valley University www.uvu.edu Utah Valley University educates and graduates more Utahns than any other university—focusing on providing students a high-quality, affordable education that is relevant in today’s economy. Our students gain real-world experience and develop career-ready skills, setting them up for success in the workforce and in life. 14 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 07
WWW.UTAHCOUNTY.GOV WWW.BUSINESSVIEWMAGAZINE.COM AS FEATURED IN Utah County UT
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