Washington County leaders are celebrating a major federal decision that moves long-discussed transportation plans forward while expanding protections for public land.
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The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) has officially approved the Northern Corridor right-of-way and added Zone 6 to the Red Cliffs Desert Reserve. Together, these actions mark a turning point for infrastructure, conservation, and recreation in Southern Utah.
What the Federal Approval Means
At the center of the decision is approval for the Utah Department of Transportation (UDOT) to begin construction of the Northern Corridor.
This route will connect Washington Parkway to Red Hills Parkway, allowing drivers to bypass downtown St. George. As a result, traffic congestion between Ivins, Santa Clara, Washington, and Hurricane could ease significantly.
Importantly, planners designed the corridor to pass through only a small portion of the Red Cliffs Desert Reserve. Traffic engineers and wildlife experts studied the route extensively before approval.
Zone 6 Now Permanently Protected
At the same time, the decision adds nearly 7,000 acres east of Bloomington—known as Zone 6—into the Red Cliffs Desert Reserve.
This area includes:
- Bear Claw Poppy Trail System
- Zen Mountain Bike Trails
- Moe’s Valley Climbing Area
Because of this approval, Zone 6 will remain permanent open space. Development in the area will not move forward as long as the Northern Corridor remains authorized.
Years of Delays Finally Resolved
This outcome follows years of political back-and-forth.
Although UDOT secured a right-of-way permit in 2021, the permit was revoked in late 2024. However, under the current administration, BLM reviewed the decision and re-issued the approval.
Meanwhile, Washington County continued planning for a balanced solution. County leaders say the reinstated decision restores protections that were previously removed.
Balancing Growth and Conservation
Washington County has managed a long-standing Habitat Conservation Plan, and that work will continue.
While construction will require relocating 30 to 40 desert tortoises, the Zone 6 expansion protects more than 900 tortoises overall. Officials say this creates a net gain for wildlife preservation.
Ultimately, leaders believe the decision supports both responsible growth and long-term conservation.
Why Congress Anticipated the Northern Corridor
Although national conservation areas rarely include new roads, this project is an exception.
In 2009, Congress passed legislation that specifically required BLM to study and approve a Northern Corridor route. Lawmakers included that provision when establishing the Red Cliffs National Conservation Area.
Because of that law, the current approval follows congressional intent.
Looking Ahead for Washington County
For now, county officials say the decision restores local control and planning certainty.
The Northern Corridor allows infrastructure to move forward. At the same time, it preserves recreation access and open land that residents value.
In a fast-growing region like St. George, that balance matters.
