The construction and construction materials supply industries both play a substantial role in Utah’s economy with the latter specifically constituting roughly 1% of Utah’s GDP while being composed of 345 firms and employing roughly 4,569 people in the state. This group of firms supports the overall construction industry which makes up 7% of the state’s economy. In light of the importance of the construction materials supply industry and its impact upon construction and the overall … Continued

Introduction People seek out education beyond high school for many reasons. These include but are not limited to pursuing a specific career pathway, developing skills relevant to a changing job market, seeking personal exploration or development, and increasing their income potential. Due in part to the variations in purpose for expanding education, students may have a difficult time evaluating their options. This report aids in this evaluation by exploring the financial return on investment for … Continued

The wet winter of 2022-2023 provided a reprieve to Utah’s water crisis that has been building in recent years, as characterized by falling levels of the Great Salt Lake and Lake Powell. That does not mean that Utah’s water problems have come to an end. Utah ranks among both the nation’s driest and fastest growing states. This means that approaches to water governance ensuring the sufficiency of affordable and high-quality water are a major concern. … Continued

Utah’s natural resource endowments and its past cultivation of urban and suburban open spaces will likely continue to spur population growth in the future. As a result, additional stress will be placed upon existing endowments. Doing nothing in the coming years threatens to decrease the quality of life that Utahns – both newcomers and long-timers alike – have come to expect and value. This report provides an understanding of why open space is important, looks … Continued

Highly Productive. Nationally Recognized. Exceedingly Vital. Our work in 2022 is guiding policy leaders. We have made a direct impact on housing policy. We are shedding bright new light on Utah’s social fabric, understanding police recruitment and retention, pushing energy efficiency, opening opportunities for post-secondary education, informing infill development, and tracking Utahns’ quality of life. We participated in conferences, hearings of public bodies and symposia, and met with dozens of civic leaders and elected officials. … Continued