EAGLE MOUNTAIN -- The Utah Department of Transportation has added another eastbound lane to the State Road 73 expansion project from Redwood Road in Saratoga Springs to 800 West in Eagle Mountain.

"We had requests from residents and officials to add an additional lane eastbound," said Scott Thompson, UDOT public information manager. "Upon review, we decided that we could provide the lane within the existing right of way."

Thompson said that since UDOT would not have to purchase additional land, the cost would be minimal for the expansion.

The initial transportation project plans called for two lanes westbound and only one eastbound. "People noticed the plan, and thought it just made sense to put in the extra lane," said Linda Peterson, Eagle Mountain spokeswoman. "Residents made an effort to contact UDOT while they could still make changes to plans, and UDOT was able to make the change."

Eagle Mountain Mayor Heather Jackson said she wanted to commend the city's residents and elected officials for voicing their concerns about the road.

"We appreciate UDOT for listening and acting upon these concerns," she said. "This is a great example of how our community works together for our benefit."

Thompson said that UDOT had hoped to start laying asphalt as soon as Sept. 30, but the forecasted cold weather could delay the process. Still, the project should be done within the next two weeks.