Utah County - A Model of Innovation, Growth, and Resilience
Utah County continues to emerge as a powerhouse of innovation, economic development, and strategic planning. With an impressive population surge and a dynamic business environment, the county balances rapid growth with effective governance. Utah County's remarkable journey highlights its economic advancements, infrastructure expansion, and the challenges it has overcome to achieve public management success.
Population Growth and Strategic Planning
Utah County, home to approximately 750,000 residents, is one of the fastest-growing counties in one of the fastest growing states in the nation. According to the Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute, Utah County experienced the most significant population increase in the state from July 1, 2023, to July 1, 2024, adding 21,853 new residents. This increase accounts for 43% of the state's total population growth and will lead to Utah County becoming the most populous county in the State by 2050.
To better prepare for the county’s growth in its transition from the second most populous county to the most populous county in the state, the county is undertaking a significant effort to establish a strategic growth and operations plan, the first in its history.
Utah County has solicited dozens of planning experts to help with this bold initiative. Throughout this planning effort, Utah County will ask its residents, elected officials, and internal staff the types and levels of service the community wants them to engage in, their service quality compared to other counties, and the mission, vision, and values residents have for their county government. Answering these questions will lead to a tangible document highlighting the 25-year outlook for the county related to service needs, performance expectations, project preferences, and growth impacts.
This article will provide a critical framework in continuing to establish and promote the county’s growing economic base. Despite lacking a unifying strategic planning document, Utah County has experienced much success that the strategic plan can accelerate and capitalize on.
Embracing Growth, Innovation, and Partnerships
Economic diversification and strategic planning are driving Utah County's future. The county's leadership emphasizes strong partnerships between local governments, educational institutions, and businesses to attract investment and stimulate economic growth.
Utah County has established a Community Reinvestment Agency that provides tax increment for critical projects throughout the county and has contributed tax increment to
help finance large-scale innovative projects to meet infrastructure demands of its growing population base. A strategic focus on economic development in Utah County has helped the county become the home to a diverse economic base. These diverse industries include the Silicon Slopes tech hub, large data center projects, multiple large-scale solar and battery farms, health institutions, and semiconductor manufacturing plants. The high-paying jobs created by these important sectors succeed here in large part due to the county’s investment in innovation, infrastructure, and human capital.
Utah County is a key player in the state's broader innovation landscape. The region has contributed to groundbreaking advancements, from computer animation technology to artificial heart development. A Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute report highlights Utah's thriving innovation ecosystems, bolstered by higher education institutions, a skilled workforce, and collaborative business culture.
Utah County is one of the nation’s leaders in innovation capacity and outcomes, according to the latest Innovation Intelligence Index (II3). This ranking reflects the state's success in fostering human capital, business growth, and economic resilience across key industries like aerospace, healthcare, fintech, and technology.
Infrastructure
Utah County is marketing itself as an ideal place to live, work, and play. County officials employ diverse communication strategies, leveraging social media, traditional media, and partnerships with local chambers of commerce.
Infrastructure projects, such as transportation expansion and enhancements to water and power systems, are critical to sustaining the county's increasing population.
Human Capital
Utah County is also a leader in education and workforce development with five major universities, ensuring a steady pipeline of skilled professionals. The county is ensuring long-term economic resilience by fostering innovation across industries—from technology to agriculture.
With this focus on both technology and agriculture, Utah County has created a unique combination of urban and agricultural living, with many areas offering walkable neighborhoods and easy access to employment hubs.
According to Curtis Blair, President and CEO of the Utah Valley Chamber of Commerce, Utah County's prosperity is fueled by a robust workforce ecosystem built on collaboration and innovation. Key partnerships between cities, counties, and regional organizations have resulted in a thriving business environment and strategic reinvestment in education programs.
Higher education institutions like Brigham Young University (BYU), Utah Valley University (UVU), Rocky Mountain University, the NOORDA college of Osteopathic Medicine, and Mountainland Technical College are crucial in talent retention, positioning Utah County as a prime destination for businesses seeking a highly skilled workforce.
Building for Tomorrow
Looking ahead, Utah County is anticipating even more significant achievements. The Provo Regional Airport is expanding rapidly, including additional flights by American Airlines, further solidifying its role as a central transportation hub. Utah County has pledged 78 million tourism tax dollars over the next 14 years, which will be key in allowing the airport to double its terminal size and increase the number of flights and passengers. Additionally, Utah County is preparing for the return of the Winter Olympics in 2034, with efforts underway to enhance regional connectivity and transportation networks.
The Epic Sports Park, featuring soccer, lacrosse, tennis, and pickleball facilities, has begun attracting global visitors, boosting tourism and economic activity. County officials have supported expanded accommodations and infrastructure to help Provo, the county seat, continue the wide success of this project.
Conclusion
Utah County's emerging success story is one of strategic growth, innovation, and resilience. Through collaborative governance, forward-thinking infrastructure projects, and a commitment to education and economic development, the county has established itself as a nationwide model for public management professionals. Through strategic planning and management Utah County will continue to be a thriving, dynamic, and innovative community where residents and businesses alike can flourish.
Author: Richard Piatt, Communications Manager, Utah County Commission. Mr. Piatt is an experienced communications professional and journalist. After working 30 years in TV news, he became Communications Director for a Member of Congress; later for the Utah Attorney General's Office and presently with the Utah County Commission. Richard loves recreating with all that Utah has to offer.