Transportation

# Daybreak Transportation & Connectivity

## A Connected Community by Design

Daybreak was conceived from its inception as a connected community, where thoughtful transportation planning creates convenient access within the development and seamless connections to the broader region. This comprehensive approach to mobility distinguishes Daybreak from conventional suburban developments, offering residents diverse transportation options that reduce car dependency while enhancing quality of life.

The community’s transportation infrastructure reflects a multi-modal philosophy that accommodates vehicles while prioritizing pedestrians, cyclists, and transit users. This balanced approach creates a more sustainable, efficient, and enjoyable transportation experience for residents and visitors alike. From its extensive trail network to its integration with regional transit systems, Daybreak demonstrates how thoughtful mobility planning can enhance community livability.

## Street Network and Hierarchy

Daybreak’s street system follows a carefully designed hierarchy that balances traffic flow with neighborhood character and pedestrian safety:

### Street Classification System
– **Community boulevards:** Primary circulation routes connecting villages and major destinations
– Examples: Daybreak Parkway, Lake Avenue, South Jordan Parkway
– Features: Landscaped medians, dedicated bike lanes, wide sidewalks
– Speed limits: Typically 35 mph
– Traffic calming: Roundabouts at major intersections, strategic signalization

– **Neighborhood connectors:** Secondary streets linking residential areas to community boulevards
– Examples: Kestrel Rise Road, Soda Row, Split Rock Drive
– Features: On-street parking, street trees, pedestrian crossings
– Speed limits: Typically 25 mph
– Traffic calming: Narrow travel lanes, intersection bulb-outs, raised crosswalks

– **Local streets:** Residential streets serving individual neighborhoods
– Features: Narrow profiles, street trees, sidewalks on both sides
– Speed limits: 20-25 mph
– Traffic calming: Tight corner radii, strategic curves, limited straight sections
– Parking: On-street parking on one or both sides

– **Alley systems:** Service access behind homes in traditional neighborhood design areas
– Features: Narrow width, permeable paving in some sections
– Access: Garage access, utilities, waste collection
– Benefits: Removes driveways from street frontage, enhances pedestrian experience

### Street Design Principles
– **Complete streets approach:** Accommodating all users, not just vehicles
– **Context-sensitive design:** Street character matches adjacent land uses
– **Safety prioritization:** Design elements that naturally reduce speeds
– **Green infrastructure:** Bioswales and rain gardens integrated into streetscapes
– **Aesthetic considerations:** Coordinated street furniture, lighting, and materials

### Traffic Management
– **Distributed network:** Multiple routes to disperse traffic rather than concentrate it
– **Strategic connections:** Careful planning of connections to regional road network
– **Roundabouts:** Used at key intersections to maintain flow while reducing speeds
– **Signal coordination:** Timed signals on major corridors to optimize movement
– **Peak hour management:** School and commute time strategies to reduce congestion

## Regional Road Connections

Daybreak’s strategic location provides convenient access to the broader regional transportation network:

### Major Highway Access
– **Mountain View Corridor:** Borders eastern Daybreak, providing north-south connectivity
– Travel time to I-15: Approximately 10 minutes
– Travel time to Salt Lake City International Airport: Approximately 30 minutes
– Recent improvements: Expansion to freeway standards completed in 2023
– Future plans: Extension southward to connect with SR-73

– **Bangerter Highway:** Located 3 miles east of Daybreak
– Configuration: Freeway-style facility with grade-separated interchanges
– Key connections: I-15, Salt Lake City International Airport
– Recent improvements: Interchange upgrades completed 2020-2024
– Travel time from Daybreak: Approximately 7 minutes

– **Interstate 15:** Located 5 miles east of Daybreak
– Access points: Via Bangerter Highway or 10600 South
– Regional connectivity: Primary north-south corridor through Wasatch Front
– Travel time from Daybreak: Approximately 12 minutes
– Recent improvements: Express lanes and interchange reconfigurations

### Arterial Road Network
– **11400 South:** Eastern boundary road connecting to Sandy and Draper
– **South Jordan Parkway:** Northern connection to Jordan Landing and West Jordan
– **10400 South:** Northeastern access to South Jordan commercial district
– **Bacchus Highway:** Western connection to manufacturing and industrial areas

### Future Regional Connections
– **Mountain View Corridor southern extension:** Planned completion by 2027
– **Bangerter Highway final interchange conversions:** Scheduled for 2026-2028
– **11800 South extension:** Planned east-west connector south of Daybreak
– **Western arterial network:** Expanding as development continues west of Daybreak

## Public Transit Integration

Daybreak stands as one of Utah’s premier transit-oriented communities, with exceptional integration of public transportation:

### TRAX Light Rail
– **Red Line service:** Direct connection to University of Utah and downtown Salt Lake City
– **Stations in Daybreak:**
– Daybreak Parkway Station (eastern Daybreak)
– South Jordan Parkway Station (northeastern Daybreak)
– Future Downtown Daybreak Station (planned for 2027)
– **Service frequency:**
– Peak hours: Every 15 minutes
– Off-peak: Every 20-30 minutes
– Weekend: Every 30 minutes
– **Travel times from Daybreak Parkway Station:**
– To downtown Salt Lake City: 42 minutes
– To University of Utah: 55 minutes
– To Salt Lake City International Airport (with transfer): 65 minutes
– **Amenities:**
– Park-and-ride facilities (500+ spaces)
– Covered waiting areas
– Real-time arrival information
– Bicycle storage
– Electric vehicle charging stations

### Bus Service
– **UTA Route 218:** Service along Daybreak Parkway and South Jordan Parkway
– Connections: Jordan Landing, West Jordan City Center, South Jordan FrontRunner
– Frequency: 30-minute headways on weekdays
– **UTA Route 509:** Service connecting to Sandy and Draper
– Connections: South Towne Mall, Draper FrontRunner
– Frequency: 30-minute headways on weekdays
– **Bus stop amenities:**
– Sheltered waiting areas at major stops
– Seating and lighting
– Route information and maps
– ADA accessibility features

### FrontRunner Commuter Rail
– **Nearest station:** South Jordan Station (4 miles from Daybreak center)
– **Connections:** Direct service to Provo, Salt Lake City, Ogden
– **Travel times from South Jordan Station:**
– To downtown Salt Lake City: 25 minutes
– To Provo: 45 minutes
– To Ogden: 70 minutes
– **Access from Daybreak:**
– Direct bus connection via Route 218
– Bicycle route via Jordan River Parkway Trail
– Park-and-ride facility with 600+ spaces

### Future Transit Enhancements
– **Downtown Daybreak TRAX Station:** New station integrated with mixed-use development
– **Bus rapid transit (BRT):** Planned service along Mountain View Corridor
– **Increased service frequency:** UTA plans for 15-minute all-day service by 2027
– **Microtransit expansion:** On-demand service zones covering western Salt Lake County

## Pedestrian Infrastructure

Walking is a fundamental transportation mode in Daybreak, supported by extensive infrastructure:

### Sidewalk Network
– **Coverage:** 100% of streets have sidewalks on both sides
– **Width standards:**
– Community boulevards: 8-10 feet
– Neighborhood connectors: 6-8 feet
– Local streets: 5-6 feet
– **Buffer zones:** Planting strips separate sidewalks from vehicle traffic
– **ADA compliance:** Curb ramps, detectable warning surfaces, accessible signals
– **Materials:** Concrete with decorative treatments in village centers and commercial areas

### Pedestrian Crossings
– **Marked crosswalks:** High-visibility markings at all intersections
– **Mid-block crossings:** Strategically placed on longer blocks
– **Enhanced crossings:**
– Raised crosswalks in high-pedestrian areas
– Pedestrian refuge islands on wider streets
– Rectangular rapid flashing beacons at key locations
– Full signals at major pedestrian crossing points
– **School zone enhancements:** Additional safety features near educational facilities

### Pedestrian-Only Pathways
– **Paseo network:** Narrow pedestrian-only connections between blocks
– **Lake promenade:** Continuous walkway around Oquirrh Lake
– **Park pathways:** Internal circulation within community parks
– **Village center plazas:** Car-free zones in commercial districts
– **Pedestrian bridges:** Grade-separated crossings at strategic locations

### Walkability Features
– **Wayfinding signage:** Pedestrian-oriented directional information
– **Seating areas:** Benches placed at regular intervals along major routes
– **Shade elements:** Trees and structures providing weather protection
– **Pedestrian-scale lighting:** Consistent illumination for safety and comfort
– **Drinking fountains:** Available at parks and major pedestrian nodes

## Bicycle Network

Daybreak features one of Utah’s most comprehensive bicycle transportation systems:

### On-Street Bicycle Facilities
– **Protected bike lanes:** Physical separation from traffic on community boulevards
– **Conventional bike lanes:** Dedicated space on neighborhood connectors
– **Shared lane markings:** Visual cues on lower-speed local streets
– **Bicycle boulevards:** Streets optimized for bicycle travel with traffic calming
– **Intersection treatments:** Bike boxes, bicycle signals, conflict zone markings

### Off-Street Bicycle Facilities
– **Multi-use paths:** 10-foot wide paved trails separated from roadways
– **Mountain bike trails:** Natural surface paths in open space areas
– **Bicycle bridges:** Dedicated crossings at major barriers
– **Underpasses:** Grade-separated crossings at busy roadways
– **Connections to regional trails:** Jordan River Parkway, Bingham Creek Trail

### Bicycle Parking and Amenities
– **Short-term parking:** Bike racks at all commercial destinations and parks
– **Long-term parking:** Secure bicycle storage at TRAX stations and community centers
– **Bicycle repair stations:** Self-service maintenance tools at strategic locations
– **Air stations:** Bicycle tire inflation points throughout the community
– **Bicycle-friendly businesses:** Program recognizing establishments with cyclist amenities

### Bicycle Programming
– **Community rides:** Regular group cycling events for all ages
– **Bicycle education:** Safety classes for children and adults
– **Bike-to-school initiatives:** Encouragement programs at community schools
– **Bicycle-friendly driver education:** Awareness training for motorists
– **Bike share program:** Station-based system in Downtown Daybreak (planned for 2026)

## Trail System

Daybreak’s extensive trail network serves both recreational and transportation functions:

### Trail Network Overview
– **Total trail mileage:** 30+ miles within community boundaries
– **Trail types:**
– Paved multi-use paths (10-foot width)
– Soft-surface nature trails (6-foot width)
– Boardwalks through sensitive areas
– Sidewalk connectors linking trail segments
– **Trail density:** Average of 7.5 miles of trail per square mile of development
– **Connectivity:** 90% of homes within 1/4 mile of trail access

### Signature Trail Routes
– **Lake Loop:** 4.5-mile circuit around Oquirrh Lake
– Surface: Paved with adjacent soft-surface option in sections
– Amenities: Rest areas, interpretive signage, scenic viewpoints
– Connections: Links to all lakefront villages

– **Ridgeline Trail:** 3.2-mile path along western highlands
– Surface: Combination of paved and soft-surface sections
– Features: Panoramic views, native landscaping, wildlife viewing areas
– Connections: Upper Villages, Creekside Village

– **Creek Corridor:** 2.8-mile nature trail following restored stream channel
– Surface: Soft-surface with boardwalks in riparian areas
– Features: Wetland habitats, bird watching stations, educational elements
– Connections: Creekside Village, South Station Village

– **Village Connector:** 5.5-mile route linking all major villages
– Surface: Paved multi-use path
– Features: Wayfinding elements, public art, rest areas
– Function: Primary non-motorized transportation spine

### Regional Trail Connections
– **Jordan River Parkway Trail:** Connection via eastern trail spur
– Distance to connection point: 2.5 miles from Daybreak center
– Regional access: 40+ mile north-south trail through Salt Lake Valley
– Features: River corridor, natural areas, regional parks

– **Bingham Creek Trail:** Connection via southern trail extension
– Distance to connection point: 1 mile from southern Daybreak
– Regional access: Connects to West Jordan and future regional trail network
– Features: Creek restoration areas, open space corridors

– **Mountain View Trail:** Parallel to Mountain View Corridor
– Distance to connection point: Adjacent to eastern Daybreak boundary
– Regional access: North-south connection to Salt Lake City
– Features: Grade-separated crossings at major roadways

### Trail Amenities and Features
– **Trailheads:** 12 designated access points with parking and facilities
– **Wayfinding:** Comprehensive signage system with maps and distance markers
– **Rest areas:** Benches, shade structures, and gathering spaces
– **Water stations:** Drinking fountains at major trail junctions
– **Interpretive elements:** Educational signage about natural and cultural features
– **Lighting:** Solar illumination on key transportation segments
– **Emergency features:** Call boxes and location markers for safety

## Transportation Demand Management

Daybreak implements various strategies to optimize transportation system efficiency:

### Commute Trip Reduction
– **Telecommuting support:** Community-wide high-speed internet infrastructure
– **Co-working spaces:** Facilities within Daybreak reducing commute need
– **Alternative work schedule promotion:** Resources for employers and employees
– **Carpool and vanpool coordination:** Matching service for residents
– **School pool program:** Organized walking groups and carpool matching for students

### Incentive Programs
– **Transit pass discounts:** Negotiated rates for Daybreak residents
– **Bicycle commuter benefits:** Recognition and rewards for regular cyclists
– **Walking challenges:** Community-wide events promoting pedestrian trips
– **Car-free days:** Special events highlighting alternative transportation
– **Transportation fairs:** Regular events showcasing mobility options

### Parking Management
– **Right-sized parking requirements:** Reduced minimums compared to conventional suburbs
– **Shared parking arrangements:** Complementary uses sharing facilities
– **Unbundled parking:** Housing options with parking as separate purchase
– **Electric vehicle charging network:** Extensive charging infrastructure
– **Priority parking for carpools and fuel-efficient vehicles**

### Information and Technology
– **Real-time transportation information:** Digital displays at key locations
– **Community transportation app:** Mobile platform with multi-modal trip planning
– **Transportation kiosks:** Interactive information points in village centers
– **Smart city infrastructure:** Traffic monitoring and adaptive management systems
– **Connected vehicle technology:** Testbed for emerging transportation innovations

## Electric Vehicle Infrastructure

Daybreak has embraced electric vehicle adoption with comprehensive charging infrastructure:

### Public Charging Network
– **Level 2 charging stations:**
– Village centers: 4-6 ports per location
– Community facilities: 2-4 ports per location
– TRAX stations: 8-10 ports per location
– Parks and recreation areas: 2-4 ports at major facilities
– **DC fast charging:**
– SoDa Row commercial district: 4 ports
– Downtown Daybreak: 8 ports (planned)
– Charging capacity: 50-150 kW depending on location
– **Charging network management:**
– Networked stations with mobile app access
– Payment systems with resident discounts
– Real-time availability information
– Maintenance and support protocols

### Residential Charging Support
– **New construction readiness:** 100% of garages EV-ready with appropriate electrical capacity
– **Multi-family solutions:** Charging access in apartment and condominium developments
– **Retrofit program:** Technical assistance for adding charging to existing homes
– **Group purchase program:** Coordinated buying opportunities for residents
– **Renewable energy integration:** Solar charging options and grid optimization

### Electric Vehicle Adoption
– **Current ownership rate:** 12% of Daybreak households (triple the Utah average)
– **Growth trajectory:** Projected 25% ownership by 2030
– **Popular models:** Tesla Model Y, Chevrolet Bolt, Ford Mustang Mach-E, Hyundai Ioniq 5
– **Community electric vehicle events:** Test drive opportunities, owner meetups
– **Fleet electrification:** Community maintenance vehicles transitioning to electric

## Innovative Mobility Solutions

Daybreak serves as a testing ground for emerging transportation technologies and approaches:

### Micromobility Options
– **Electric scooter share:** Geofenced system within Daybreak boundaries
– **Electric bike share:** Station-based system at key destinations (planned for 2026)
– **Personal electric vehicle support:** Infrastructure accommodating e-bikes, scooters, and other devices
– **Micromobility parking:** Designated areas at destinations
– **Regulatory framework:** Community-specific rules for safe operation

### Autonomous Vehicle Testing
– **Pilot shuttle service:** Fixed-route autonomous shuttle connecting TRAX to Downtown Daybreak
– **Testing partnership:** Collaboration with University of Utah and technology companies
– **Infrastructure readiness:** Communication systems and sensors supporting autonomous operation
– **Community engagement:** Education and feedback opportunities for residents
– **Phased implementation:** Expanding service areas as technology matures

### Mobility as a Service (MaaS)
– **Integrated mobility platform:** Single app for planning, booking, and paying for multi-modal trips
– **Subscription options:** Monthly packages covering various transportation services
– **Unified payment system:** Seamless transactions across transportation modes
– **Personalized travel planning:** AI-powered recommendations based on user preferences
– **Transportation wallet:** Digital account for transportation expenses and incentives

### Delivery and Logistics
– **Package delivery hubs:** Centralized locations for parcel pickup
– **Autonomous delivery pilots:** Testing of small robotic delivery devices
– **Drone delivery zones:** Designated areas for aerial delivery testing
– **Neighborhood electric vehicles:** Low-speed utility vehicles for local services
– **Last-mile delivery coordination:** Optimizing deliveries to reduce vehicle trips

## Transportation Sustainability Initiatives

Daybreak’s transportation system incorporates numerous environmental sustainability features:

### Carbon Reduction Strategies
– **Mode shift goals:** Targets for reducing single-occupancy vehicle trips
– Current non-SOV mode share: 22% of all trips
– 2030 target: 35% of all trips by transit, walking, cycling, or carpool
– **Vehicle electrification:** Infrastructure supporting transition from fossil fuels
– **Renewable energy integration:** Solar canopies at parking facilities
– **Carbon offset program:** Community investment in transportation-related carbon reduction

### Green Infrastructure
– **Permeable paving:** Water-permeable surfaces in parking areas and low-traffic zones
– **Bioswales:** Natural drainage systems along roadways
– **Urban tree canopy:** Extensive street tree network for shade and carbon sequestration
– **Rain gardens:** Stormwater management features at parking facilities
– **Native landscaping:** Low-water vegetation throughout transportation corridors

### Materials and Maintenance
– **Recycled materials:** Use of recycled content in paving and infrastructure
– **Warm-mix asphalt:** Lower-temperature paving reducing energy consumption
– **LED lighting:** Energy-efficient illumination throughout transportation network
– **Sustainable maintenance practices:** Environmentally friendly ice control, vegetation management
– **Infrastructure lifespan optimization:** Design and materials selections for longevity

### Monitoring and Reporting
– **Transportation emissions inventory:** Regular assessment of community transportation carbon footprint
– **Mode share surveys:** Annual data collection on transportation choices
– **Infrastructure performance metrics:** Tracking efficiency and sustainability of systems
– **Public dashboard:** Transparent reporting of transportation sustainability metrics
– **Continuous improvement process:** Regular updates to sustainability strategies based on performance

## Transportation Safety

Safety is a fundamental priority in Daybreak’s transportation system design:

### Vision Zero Approach
– **Goal:** Elimination of severe injuries and fatalities in the transportation system
– **Design philosophy:** Prioritizing safety over speed and convenience
– **Vulnerable user protection:** Special focus on pedestrians and cyclists
– **Data-driven interventions:** Using crash data to identify and address safety issues
– **Community engagement:** Resident involvement in safety initiatives

### Safety Design Elements
– **Traffic calming:** Physical features that naturally reduce vehicle speeds
– Narrowed travel lanes
– Curb extensions at intersections
– Raised crosswalks and intersections
– Traffic circles and roundabouts
– Chicanes and lateral shifts
– **Visibility enhancements:**
– Daylighting at intersections (removing visual obstructions)
– Advanced stop lines
– High-visibility crosswalk markings
– Pedestrian-scale lighting
– **Conflict reduction:**
– Protected bicycle infrastructure
– Leading pedestrian intervals at signals
– Dedicated turning phases
– Access management strategies

### Safety Programs and Education
– **School safety initiatives:**
– Safe Routes to School programming
– School zone enforcement
– Walking school bus programs
– Bicycle education in schools
– **Community education:**
– Driver awareness campaigns
– Bicycle and pedestrian safety workshops
– New resident transportation orientation
– Seasonal safety messaging

### Safety Performance
– **Crash rates:** 40% lower than comparable suburban areas
– **Injury severity:** Significant reduction in serious injuries
– **Vulnerable user statistics:** Zero pedestrian fatalities since community inception
– **School zone safety:** No serious injuries in school zones
– **Continuous monitoring:** Regular safety audits and assessments

## Accessibility and Inclusive Mobility

Daybreak’s transportation system is designed to serve residents and visitors of all ages and abilities:

### Universal Design Principles
– **Barrier-free pathways:** Accessible routes throughout the community
– **Gentle grades:** Maximum 5% slopes on primary pedestrian routes
– **Smooth surfaces:** Well-maintained pathways with appropriate materials
– **Adequate width:** Accommodating mobility devices on all pedestrian facilities
– **Rest opportunities:** Frequent seating along major walking routes

### Specific Accessibility Features
– **Curb ramps:** ADA-compliant ramps at all pedestrian crossings
– **Detectable warning surfaces:** Tactile indicators at street crossings
– **Accessible pedestrian signals:** Audible and vibrotactile crossing information
– **Accessible transit stops:** Level boarding, clear paths, shelter design
– **Inclusive wayfinding:** Multiple information formats including tactile elements

### Specialized Transportation Services
– **Paratransit service:** UTA paratransit covering the entire community
– **Community shuttle:** Accessible vehicle serving senior living areas
– **Volunteer driver program:** Assistance for residents with special transportation needs
– **Medical transportation coordination:** Support for healthcare-related trips
– **Grocery and pharmacy delivery:** Services reducing necessary trips

### Age-Friendly Transportation
– **Senior-focused design:** Transportation features supporting older adults
– Longer crossing times at signals
– Additional seating along walking routes
– Simplified transit information
– Well-lit pathways and waiting areas
– **Youth mobility support:**
– Safe routes to schools and recreation
– Bicycle education and safety programs
– Independent mobility opportunities
– Age-appropriate wayfinding

## Future Transportation Initiatives

Daybreak’s transportation system continues to evolve with several planned enhancements:

### Near-Term Projects (1-2 Years)
– **Downtown Daybreak mobility hub:** Integrated facility with multiple transportation options
– **Expanded electric vehicle charging network:** Doubling current capacity
– **Autonomous shuttle pilot:** Fixed-route service connecting key destinations
– **Bicycle network completion:** Filling gaps in the current system
– **Pedestrian crossing enhancements:** Safety improvements at key locations

### Medium-Term Initiatives (3-5 Years)
– **Mobility as a Service platform:** Integrated transportation app for residents
– **Downtown Daybreak TRAX station:** New light rail stop in urban center
– **Bus rapid transit connection:** Enhanced service along Mountain View Corridor
– **Micromobility expansion:** Comprehensive scooter and bike share system
– **Smart corridor technology:** Advanced traffic management systems

### Long-Term Vision (5+ Years)
– **Autonomous vehicle network:** Community-wide self-driving shuttle service
– **Aerial mobility integration:** Infrastructure for urban air mobility
– **Complete electrification:** 100% zero-emission transportation within community
– **Regional trail network completion:** Connections to all surrounding communities
– **Transportation innovation zone:** Designated area for testing emerging technologies

## Transportation Resources for Residents

Daybreak provides numerous resources to help residents navigate transportation options:

### Information Sources
– **Daybreak Transportation Guide:** Comprehensive resource for all mobility options
– **Community transportation website:** Online portal with maps, schedules, and tools
– **Mobile app:** Real-time information and trip planning
– **Transportation kiosks:** Interactive information points at key locations
– **New resident orientation:** Transportation overview for newcomers

### Community Support
– **Transportation coordinator:** Staff position focused on mobility programs
– **Resident transportation committee:** Community input on transportation issues
– **Ambassador program:** Peer-to-peer assistance for transportation options
– **Transportation events:** Regular showcases of mobility choices
– **Feedback mechanisms:** Continuous improvement through resident input

### Special Programs
– **Bike loan program:** Try-before-you-buy bicycle opportunities
– **Transit buddy system:** Assistance for first-time transit users
– **Walking groups:** Organized neighborhood walking programs
– **Carpool matching:** Help finding rideshare partners
– **Transportation challenge:** Annual event encouraging alternative modes

## Conclusion

Transportation and connectivity stand as fundamental elements of Daybreak’s community design, creating a place where mobility options enhance quality of life while reducing environmental impact. Through thoughtful integration of multiple transportation modes, innovative infrastructure, and forward-thinking programs, Daybreak demonstrates how suburban development can move beyond car dependency toward a more balanced and sustainable approach to mobility.

The community’s transportation system will continue to evolve as new technologies emerge and resident needs change, but the core principles of connectivity, choice, safety, and sustainability will remain constant. This commitment to transportation excellence ensures that Daybreak will maintain its position as one of Utah’s most accessible and connected communities for generations to come.

Scroll to Top