Each year, at the annual dinner, UAPA has the opportunity to celebrate excellence in infrastructure and the dedication required to build lasting, quality pavement projects.

The recognition of these projects goes above and beyond standard specifications, setting a new benchmark for quality, durability, and safety.

UAPA thanks all those who submitted projects for consideration, the judges who had the difficult job of narrowing down the winners, and, of course, the hundreds of dedicated crew members who worked tirelessly to achieve the outstanding results demonstrated in every project nominated, not just those that won this year.

The US-191 Realignment Near Simplot Project delivered a safer and more efficient transportation corridor through northeastern Utah while showcasing successful collaboration between public agencies, private industry, and local stakeholders.

For decades, the steep and winding switchbacks north of Vernal created safety and mobility challenges for travelers. The project transformed the 2.6-mile corridor into a modern highway designed to improve safety, reliability, and efficiency.

Through a partnership between the Utah Department of Transportation (UDOT) and the J.R. Simplot Company, a mutually beneficial solution was developed. Simplot sought access to phosphate ore beneath the existing highway and had the equipment and workforce to move large volumes of earth, while UDOT aimed to improve public safety along US-191. Together, the partners completed the project while saving taxpayers an estimated $40 million.

The new alignment eliminates dangerous hairpin turns and steep grades, improving travel for residents and visitors throughout the region. Communities including Vernal and Dutch John now benefit from safer access to jobs, healthcare, education, and recreation.

The project was also completed with a strong commitment to safety, resulting in zero reported safety incidents through proactive planning, daily risk assessments, and hazard mitigation.