Eagle Mountain is gearing up for its largest annual event, ShopFest Utah, a celebration that has become synonymous with small business success.

This year’s event will be held Saturday, Sept. 7 from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. at Cory Wride Memorial Park.

“Shopfest Utah 2024 is going to be the biggest in history,” says Eagle Mountain Chamber of Commerce President Melissa Clark. “We have thousands of shoppers come from all over the intermountain west and small businesses spanning from Logan to St. George and from Grantsville to Vernal. Eagle Mountain is the place where shoppers come to shop and businesses come to grow.”

What began as a modest street fair has transformed into a major event that draws visitors from across the state, showcasing the best of Utah’s small businesses.

ShopFest Utah was born out of a need to bolster small local businesses, especially those home-based enterprises that have flourished in Eagle Mountain.

The community, which has always prided itself on fostering entrepreneurship, recognized the challenges posed by its distance from major transportation corridors like the I-15. This made it essential to find innovative ways to support the growing number of small businesses in Eagle Mountain.

As the event continued to grow, the limitations of its original location on Peregrine Rd. became evident. In 2019, the fair relocated to Cory Wride Memorial Park and was rebranded as ShopFest Utah.

This move not only accommodated the increasing number of participants but also allowed the event to attract visitors from across the state. It established the event as Utah’s premier small business shopping event.

The heart of ShopFest Utah is the marketplace. This year’s marketplace will bring together over 300 small businesses from more than 70 cities across Utah. 

“There is something for everyone; from entertainment all day, dozens of food trucks, and food booths,” says Clark. “With the help of ShopFest Utah 2024 Title Sponsor, Comcast, the stage will be filled all day with everything from lizards and snakes to birds of prey, superheroes and princesses.”

Within the marketplace, attendees will find an array of goods and services. Whether you’re looking for unique arts and crafts, stylish apparel and fashion or essential home goods, the marketplace has something for everyone.

Other categories include automotive, baby and children, beauty, books, electronics, entertainment, food and kitchen, health, home décor, instructional, jewelry and accessories, outdoors, pet supplies and care, services, sports and recreation, technology and travel.

ShopFest has grown to include family fun all day long. With bounce houses, pony rides, face painters, Eagle Mountain Royalty and cooled hospitality tents to watch our live entertainment and enjoy lunch.

Today, ShopFest Utah is managed by the Eagle Mountain Chamber of Commerce and continues to showcase Eagle Mountain’s commitment to supporting small businesses.

“In 2018, the Chamber was founded to support local business, and this year, with the help of Meta, the Chamber created Launch Pad, a Business Resource Center, to help the small mom and pop with their tables and booths of ShopFest take their businesses from ‘Table to Tech’ with classes, resources and equipment available right in the community to help them grow from one day a year businesses to businesses that serve the world 24/7,” says Clark. 

As the event grows each year, it solidifies its position as Utah’s foremost small business shopping event, drawing thousands of visitors to explore and support local enterprises.

Eagle Mountain City is enhancing road safety by installing advanced warning signage at Ranches Pkwy. and Stonebridge Ln. in both directions of travel.

These new signs, activated today at 1 p.m., will alert motorists to upcoming traffic lights, especially around a curve on Ranches Pkwy. where visibility is limited.

The effort aims to reduce sudden braking and potential collisions by providing drivers with ample notice of the red lights ahead.

The City encourages all motorists to remain attentive and drive safely, especially with this new feature now in place.

Residents and commuters in Eagle Mountain should continue preparing for road work and traffic changes on the Mountain View Corridor extension and Pioneer Crossing.

Starting this week, contractors will continue utility trenching and excavation as part of the road widening and extension project, according to the Utah Department of Transportation.

Key Updates and Impacts:

• Utility Work: Throughout this week and next, expect ongoing utility work, trenching, and excavation on 800 West (MVC extension). The project aims to enhance the road capacity and improve traffic flow.
• Traffic Changes on Pioneer Crossing: On Thursday, the dedicated westbound right-turn lane from Pioneer Crossing onto northbound Mountain View Corridor will be eliminated temporarily. Right-turn traffic will need to use the through lane, potentially causing congestion. Motorists are advised to plan ahead and allow extra travel time. This phase of work is expected to continue through the end of August.
• Safety Precautions: Motorists, pedestrians, and cyclists are urged to exercise caution in the construction zones. Follow all traffic controls and be vigilant for construction workers and equipment.

SR-73, SR-145, and SR-85 Intersection Improvements:

The Utah Department of Transportation (UDOT) is making significant modifications to the intersection of SR-73, SR-145, and SR-85 to enhance capacity and efficiency. The project, which began on July 8, 2024, includes:

• Additional Left Turn Lane: An extra left-turn lane will be added.
• Modified Pavement Stripping: Existing pavement markings will be updated.
• Relocated Bicycle Lane: The bike lane will be moved to improve safety and traffic flow.

Schedule and Expected Impacts:

• Work Hours: Monday to Friday, 7:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., with occasional night work and Saturdays as needed.
• Night Closures: Expect potential night closures at the intersection with signage providing alternative routes.
• Lane Shifts and Barricades: Temporary lane shifts and barricades will be in place during pavement striping.
• Bike Lane and Pedestrian Crossing Interruptions: Temporary disruptions to bike lanes and pedestrian crossings may occur.

Stay Informed:

• Email Updates: Subscribe by emailing mvcandpioneercrossing@utah.gov with “Updates” in the subject line.
• Project Website: Visit www.publicinput.com/s1107 for more details.

Please plan your travel accordingly and stay safe during these essential road improvements.

Lehi Peck Quarry will conduct a blast on Aug. 6 between 3 and 5 p.m. This is a regular occurrence in Eagle Mountain. Please note that traffic on SR-73 may be stalled during detonations. Residents and commuters are advised to plan accordingly to avoid delays. Safety measures will be in place to ensure the well-being of the community. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.

The July 2024 edition of the Eagle’s View Newsletter is here. In this issue, we learn about Smith Ranch Park, back-to-school safety and how to deal with rodents. Read here: https://bit.ly/4fs9gaX

The sweltering summer months are here, and with temperatures rising above 100 degrees, many of our residents in Eagle Mountain have had frustrating experiences with air conditioning problems.

We hear a number of complaints and see social media posts about air conditioners not keeping up, or not working at all. Even units in new homes are not exempt from problems. If you are replacing or upgrading your HVAC system, verify that the service contractor has obtained a permit, so it can be inspected to verify that safe and proper installation.

Air conditioners are designed to cool indoor spaces to a comfortable temperature range, typically between 68 and 78 degrees Fahrenheit, depending on preference and conditions. Units are designed to cool a home by 15-20 degrees. When temperatures soar above 100 degrees, an air conditioner might only be able to cool a home to 80 degrees. Units can struggle to maintain lower temperatures indoors, and they may run longer or cycle more frequently to achieve the desired cooling. Too often we put too much of a load on the system, and the system cannot manage the strain.

The right size unit is important in the ability to cool your home. An oversized unit can lead to poor energy use and uneven cooling, while a unit that is too small will struggle to cool the space.

If you have a finished basement, take that into consideration. Many home builders only calculate the space finished when the home was complete, and not future space. In a typical home, the upstairs is usually about 10 degrees warmer than the basement due to the heat rising. If you are running your home on one unit, try closing your basement registers halfway or completely in some cases, to assist your unit.

Regular maintaining and troubleshooting for your air conditioner can help ensure it runs efficiently. Here are some DIY tips for maintenance and what to do if your coils freeze:

Maintenance Tips:

1. Regular Cleaning:
   • Filters: Replace or clean air filters every 1-3 months, especially during heavy use periods. In Eagle Mountain, with our wind, dust, and new construction, changing the filter more often can be your easiest tool to help prevent future issues.
   • Coils: Clean evaporator and condenser coils annually to maintain airflow and efficiency.
2. Clear Debris:
   • Ensure outdoor condenser unit is clear of debris, leaves, and dirt. Trim foliage around the unit to maintain proper airflow.
3. Check Refrigerant Levels:
   • Low refrigerant levels can indicate a leak and should be checked and refilled by a professional.
4. Inspect Ductwork:
   • Check ducts for leaks or blockages. Seal leaks with listed duct tape or mastic sealant.
5. Thermostat Check:
   • Calibrate thermostat settings and consider upgrading to a programmable thermostat for better efficiency.

Troubleshooting Tips:

1. Poor Cooling:
   • Check air filters and replace if dirty.
   • Ensure return vents and registers are open and unobstructed.
   • Verify thermostat settings are correct.
2. No Air Flow:
   • Inspect and replace dirty air filters.
   • Check for blocked or closed vents.
3. Strange Noises:
   • Rattling or squealing could indicate loose parts or belts. Tighten or replace as needed.
4. Coils Freeze:
   • Symptoms: Reduced airflow, warm air from vents, ice buildup on coils.
   • Causes: Restricted airflow, dirty coils, low refrigerant levels.

What to Do if Your Coils Freeze:

1. Turn Off the AC:
   • Immediately turn off the air conditioner to prevent further damage.
2. Check Airflow:
   • Inspect air filters and vents for blockages. Replace dirty filters and clear any obstructions.
3. Allow Thawing:
   • Let the coils thaw completely before attempting to restart the unit. This may take several hours.
4. Inspect and Clean:
   • Once thawed, inspect the coils for dirt or debris. Clean them gently with a soft brush or cloth.
5. Professional Inspection:
   • If the problem persists after cleaning and restarting, or if you suspect low refrigerant levels, contact a professional HVAC technician for inspection and repair.

Regular maintenance and prompt attention to issues like frozen coils can extend the life of your air conditioner and keep it running efficiently during hot weather. YouTube has some useful information to help walk you through and troubleshoot. Take some time to educate yourself a little preventative maintenance and it will pay off, ensuring that your home stays comfortable and cool all summer long.

Eagle Mountain City is set to welcome families to the Back-to-School Social on Aug. 3 at Cory Wride Memorial Park.

The event, which runs from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., promises an afternoon of entertainment and community engagement for elementary school students and their families.

“This event is a fantastic opportunity for families to enjoy live performances, savor great food, and engage with school staff,” says Events Aid Marie West. “It’s all about celebrating the start of the school year and building a stronger, more connected Eagle Mountain community.”

The social will feature live music performances by local bands Ripcord Revival and Sonic Duke.

In addition to the musical entertainment, the event will provide an opportunity for students and parents to interact with school officials. Principals and school crossing guards will be present for a meet-and-greet session.

Food trucks will be on-site, offering a variety of options for attendees. This gathering not only aims to celebrate the start of the school year but also seeks to strengthen the community bonds within Eagle Mountain.

“Our goal is to provide a joyful and informative experience where families can relax, learn more about the school year, and meet new people,” says West.  “It’s a special moment for newcomers to feel at home and for longtime residents to catch up and reconnect.”

Families can look forward to an afternoon of fun, food and music, while also gaining valuable information and making connections for the upcoming academic year.

The Back-to-School Social is an excellent occasion for new residents to get acquainted with their local school community and for returning families to reconnect after the summer break.

“We invite all families to come and enjoy a day filled with engaging activities and essential information,” says West.

The Back-to-School Social will provide entertainment and information to set a positive tone for the school year ahead.

Eagle Mountain City has once again rolled out the annual resident survey, an essential tool for gathering community feedback and shaping the future of the community.

This survey invites residents to share their perceptions of the City’s performance across various departments and evaluate the effectiveness of elected officials.

The survey aims to collect valuable insights into how residents feel about the services provided by the City, from public safety and utilities to parks and recreation. This feedback will play a role in identifying areas of success and opportunities for improvement, ensuring that the City’s efforts align with the community’s needs and expectations.

Residents can access the survey online via the City’s social media or accessing it here. The survey will be open until Aug. 4, and all responses are confidential. Eagle Mountain City encourages all residents to take a few minutes to participate and have their voices heard.

As summer reaches its peak, Eagle Mountain residents find themselves dealing with an unexpected pest problem: an explosion in the population of voles and mice.

These small rodents have a higher presence this year, and have made themselves known in lawns and gardens across the community.

According to Eagle Mountain City’s Wildlife Biologist Todd Black, the surge in rodent populations can be attributed to several factors.

“We are on the third or fourth generation of these pests for the season, which equates to thousands of little vermin running around in neighborhoods,” Black said. “Environmental conditions aligning perfectly can lead to such population explosions.”

The primary culprits in Eagle Mountain are the western deer mouse (Peromyscus sonoriensis) and the meadow vole or sagebrush vole (Microtus). While gophers are also present, they have not seen the same population boom this year.

Black explained that these rodents are R-selected species, characterized by rapid reproduction, short gestational periods, and minimal parental care.

The mice are relatively easy to catch using baited traps with a peanut butter-oatmeal mix, and both live traps and snap traps have proven effective. However, the biologist cautioned against relocating these pests due to legal restrictions and the potential for creating problems for others.

He also advised against using rodenticides because of their toxicity to other animals and concerns about bioaccumulation in raptors.

Voles, on the other hand, present a more challenging problem. These rodents create tunnels in lawns, particularly in Kentucky bluegrass, and are difficult to trap. Black recommended drowning them out or placing snap traps near their holes.

Additionally, natural repellents like castor oil, hot sauce, liquid garlic, or pepper can be used to encourage voles to vacate an area, though they may simply move to a different part of the yard or a neighbor’s property.

One innovative method is a pipe trap.

“Putting 10-inch PVC pieces of pipe, capped off at one end, in the paths of the vole. Once the voles get in, they can’t turn around and get out,” says Black.

Reflecting on the situation, Black says the current vole problem might not have existed 30 years ago. The changes in agricultural practices and urban development have contributed to the increase in rodent populations.

“This is not just a city problem; it’s a city-wide problem,” he emphasized. “If you plant Kentucky bluegrass and water it excessively, you’re unintentionally contributing to the problem.”

Residents are advised to reduce trash and debris, which can attract rodents, and to be mindful of their lawn care practices. The city is aware of its role in the problem and is working to implement mitigation measures to help reduce the rodent population.

The current situation in Eagle Mountain mirrors issues faced by neighboring areas. Significant increases in vole populations in nearby Saratoga Springs and Draper.

The Utah Division of Wildlife Resources suggested that the vole population boom could be due to favorable environmental conditions, ongoing construction and natural population cycles that peak every three to six years.

As Eagle Mountain grapples with the vole and mouse invasion, residents and city officials alike are working to find effective solutions to mitigate the problem and protect their properties from further damage.

As Utah prepares to celebrate Pioneer Day on Wednesday, July 24, residents of Eagle Mountain should be aware of several important updates and guidelines in place for the holiday.

City Hall Closure

In observance of Pioneer Day, Eagle Mountain City Hall will be closed on July 24. Regular business hours will resume on Thursday, July 25. This closure allows City employees and residents to honor the pioneers who played a crucial role in Utah’s history.

Fireworks Restrictions

With the holiday celebrations often featuring fireworks, it’s vital for residents to be informed about the City’s safety measures. The Eagle Mountain City Council has approved a Fireworks Restrictions Map for 2024, designed to enhance public safety and prevent wildfires. This map, provided by the Unified Fire Authority, highlights areas where fireworks are prohibited. Residents can check if their address falls within these restricted zones by using the online map tool.

Maintaining wildfire prevention and safety efforts is critical, especially during the dry summer months. Eagle Mountain has specific measures in place to mitigate fire risks in high-risk areas. Residents with questions about local restrictions are encouraged to contact the Unified Fire Authority for clarification. To report non-emergency illegal fireworks use, residents should call the Utah County Sheriff’s Office Eagle Mountain division.

Smith Ranch Park

Smith Ranch Park will not allow fireworks on July 24th. The park’s playground features a poured-in-place area that is not fire-safe and is capable of burning. As a precaution, the parking lot will be blocked off, and signs will be posted to remind residents of the fireworks prohibition.

Residents are reminded to clean up any fireworks debris at other park locations to maintain safety and cleanliness for all park visitors.

Pioneer Day Celebrations

Here’s where Eagle Mountain residents can explore Pioneer Day celebrations on Wednesday, July 24.

Ogden: Celebrate the state’s early settlers at Ogden’s annual Pioneer Days rodeo. The event at Ogden Pioneer Stadium opens its gates at 5:30 p.m. and concludes with a drone show. If you can’t make it on Pioneer Day, don’t worry—there’s a rodeo and drone show every night from July 19-24.

Orem: Fireworks are returning to University Place Mall. Attendees can start reserving their spots with chairs and blankets at 4 p.m., with live entertainment kicking off at 5 p.m. The fireworks show will begin at 9:30 p.m.

Provo: Provo is celebrating Pioneer Day with an Olympics announcement celebration at Peaks Ice Arena. Enjoy free ice skating starting at 6 p.m., a DJ, various activities, and a fireworks display at 9:30 p.m.

Salt Lake City: Salt Lake City pulls out all the stops for Pioneer Day. The Days of ’47 Parade begins at 9 a.m., followed by day-long activities at Liberty Park. The festivities will conclude with a drone show at the park at 10 p.m.

Spanish Fork: Fireworks will be launched from the sports park at approximately 10 p.m., with synchronized music playing at Field Eight.