MAG NEWS & UPDATES - January 2026

Executive Director's Corner

The Utah Legislative Session is in full swing, one of the busiest and most impactful times of the year for MAG and the communities we serve. I’m grateful for the dedication of our elected leaders and the work they do on behalf of Utahns. At MAG, we’re focused on working closely with state, county, and city partners, as well as our sister agencies and regional stakeholders, to advance shared priorities and deliver real results.

This year, we’re also bringing leaders together with a weekly Thursday lunch for mayors, county commissioners, councilmembers, and regional partners. These gatherings offer a dedicated space to connect, discuss legislative priorities, share updates on ongoing projects, and coordinate efforts throughout the session. It’s just one way MAG stays engaged, informed, and proactive as we work alongside our colleagues at the Legislature.

From advancing transportation and transit projects to supporting economic growth and maintaining services for our aging population, the opportunities ahead in 2026 are significant. By continuing to collaborate and align our efforts, we can make meaningful progress for the communities we serve.

-Michelle Carroll, MPA

Legislative Lunches

Thank you to everyone who attended our first MAG Legislative Lunch at the Capitol on January 22nd. This working group provides a dedicated time to gather members of MAG's Executive Council (mayors and county leadership from Summit, Utah, and Wasatch Counties), our Metropolitan Planning Organization, UDOT, ULCT, UTA, and other AOGs to discuss legislative issues. The meeting also gives legislators an excellent opportunity to present state priorities and potential legislation. 

MAG works as a convener, bringing these groups together to create a shared vision and understanding. We look forward to continuing these working groups each week during the session.

Medicare Can Be Confusing!

That's why our free, unbiased SHIP (State Health Insurance Program) counselors are here. 

From January 1 - March 31, 2026, you can make a one-time change to your Medicare Advantage plan. We'll help you sort through the options, including dental, vision, and hearing. 

Call 801-229-3819 or visit magutah.gov/medicare to schedule your free session.

Senior Education Series

The Senior Education Series is launching this season with a free set of classes designed for older adults and caregivers. Topics include:

• February 12: Navigating the World of Assisted Living and Skilled Nursing Facilities
• March 11: Hospice and Funeral Planning

All classes are virtual and open to the community. Register at magutah.gov/education.

Single Family Home Repair Program Kudos

"The roof was finished Tuesday. WOW! It is beautiful and my little home looks fresh and beautiful because of it. What a difference and how blessed and grateful I am to have a new roof! Now, no worries of leaks and the home just looks loved with this new facelift!

Thank you for all your support. The contractor was fantastic and his crew did a really good and fast job to avoid bad weather. They communicated so quickly and are just a wonderful crew. They made me feel very secure and I trusted them completely.

I am so happy and thrilled. I appreciate this so much."

Statewide Strategic Housing Plan

The Governor and state of Utah released its Statewide Strategic Housing Plan in December. The plan, intended to address a broad range of housing-related issues can be found at https://governor.utah.gov.

Maps on the Hill

We had a great Maps on the Hill Day on January 21. MAG staff displayed our up-to-date parcel data that informs our computer models that predict population and travel needs.

To see our maps and resources, visit https://magutah.gov/analytics/

2026 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) Selection Process

MAG is initiating the process for selecting new transportation projects to be included and funded within the 2026 TIP. Approximately $110 million in funding will be available for fiscal years 2029 and 2030 to enhance the capacity of roadways, active transportation, and transit infrastructure.

Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) staff is currently soliciting project ideas for eligible projects, with a submission deadline of February 2nd. The final project list and funding allocation scenario are scheduled for adoption in August. For more information, please visit magutah.gov/tipselection/.

For questions, concerns, or comments contact Johnathon Knapton, MAG Communications Manager, at jknapton@magutah.gov or (801)229-3836