Overview
The North Bench Pump Station provides culinary water to residents north of downtown Salt Lake City. We are replacing the 60+ year old pump station and associated piping. The new pump station will be located just north of the Morris Reservoir which is located at approximately 18th Avenue and Hilltop Road. The new pump station will reduce operational costs and significantly increase energy efficiency and improve water distribution. We will maintain the existing pump station and pipelines throughout construction until the final tie-in is complete.
The 18th Avenue Trailhead will be constructed as a formal trailhead as part of this project. For more information regarding the trailhead improvements, please visit 18th Avenue (Hilltop Road) and SLC Foothills Trail System Trailhead Infrastructure Improvement Project.
Timeline
Construction began in mid-September 2025 and is expected to continue through September 2026.
Construction Update: April 2, 2026
Pump Station Site:
Pipe installation for the new pump station is complete. System testing is expected to begin within the next month.
Water Lines:
New underground water lines are being installed to connect the reservoir and pump station. These upgrades will improve system reliability. Older lines will be decommissioned once the new lines are operational.
Morris Reservoir:
Crews are replacing an aging sewer line using low-impact methods and preparing a new access road between the reservoir and pump station. Final paving will happen near project completion.
Anticipated Project Schedule Milestones:
Milestones are subject to change due to weather and other factors.
- Waterline connections requiring temporary shutdowns – late spring 2026
- Trailhead access and parking reopen – late spring/early summer 2026
- New pump station operational – early summer 2026
- Old pump station decommissioned – midsummer 2026
Construction Impacts and Improvements:
The following improvements will take place to improve the site either during or post construction:
- Revegetation of disturbed areas
- Leveling and grading improvements
- Road and access improvements, including:
- Repaving of Hilltop Ave, North from 18th Ave
- Trailhead parking area paving
- SLC Public Utilities access road paving (see map below for general area to be paved)
- Ongoing drainage management
- Additional trailhead improvements managed by SLC Parks and Public Lands
Frequently Asked Questions
Where should I access the I Street Bike Park?
Use 681 18th Avenue and enter through the North or West Bike Park entrances. (See Trailhead Access Map)
Where can I access the trail bypass?
Access the bypass from the vacant lot at 681 18th Avenue. (See Trailhead Access Map)
Where should I park?
Parking on 18th Avenue is limited during construction (Monday–Friday, 7:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m.). (See Trailhead Access Map)
What will happen to temporary bypass and detour trails?
Temporary trails will be removed and areas revegetated after construction.
What has SLCDPU done to mitigate wildfire risk?
SLCDPU implemented a state-required Fire Protection Plan, coordinates with the fire department, and cleared vegetation near the construction zone to reduce wildfire risk.
Trailhead Access Map
Engagement Timeline
2026
2025
- May 1 – Greater Avenues Community Council Newsletter
- July 2 – Presentation at Greater Avenues Community Council Meeting
- September 17–18 – Flyers distributed to impacted properties; yard signs installed
- September 17 to Present – Project hotline and email available
2024
- March 1 – Greater Avenues Community Council Newsletter
- March 6 – Presentation at Greater Avenues Community Council Meeting
- March 18 – Presentation at Bicycle Advisory Committee Meeting
- May 1 – Neighborhood Design Survey
Questions or comments?
Contact the project team at 855-925-2801 (Project Code: 12065) or via email at [email protected].