Rush-hour traffic is not the only way to get around Draper anymore. If you live here, TRAX and FrontRunner already shape your commute options, neighborhood amenities, and what buyers value in your home. Whether you are planning a move or weighing a sale, understanding how transit and nearby development work together can help you make smarter decisions. Let’s dive in.
What transit Draper has today
TRAX Blue Line
TRAX’s Blue Line runs to the southern terminus at Draper Town Center, with stations serving Draper directly and connections to downtown Salt Lake City. The Draper extension opened in 2013 and offers frequent light-rail service that links to other TRAX lines. You can review the local station details at the Draper Town Center station page.
FrontRunner commuter rail
FrontRunner serves Draper with a regional commuter-rail station on the Ogden–Provo corridor. The station opened in 2012 and includes a large park-and-ride garage of roughly 600 spaces, plus corridor segments designated as a Quiet Zone that reduce routine horn noise. For an overview, see the Draper FrontRunner station profile.
How the two systems work together
TRAX handles shorter, frequent urban trips. FrontRunner is built for longer north–south commutes along the Wasatch Front. Having both in Draper expands your options and supports transit-oriented development near stations. You can learn more about system roles in the TRAX Blue Line overview.
Big projects changing the area
The Point master development
The Point is a state-led, multi-phase plan on roughly 600 acres at the former Utah State Prison site in southern Draper. Early infrastructure work began in the 2024–2025 window, with a vision for a high-density, walkable district that integrates housing, office, parks, entertainment, and direct transit connections. Explore the vision in this Arcadis case study on The Point.
Vista Station near FrontRunner
Around the Draper FrontRunner station, Vista Station is an active, multi-year transit-oriented district with office, multifamily, and commercial space. Its continued buildout brings jobs and amenities that typically lift demand for nearby housing. See the developer’s overview of Vista Station.
FrontRunner 2X upgrades
The FrontRunner 2X program plans selective double-tracking and other capacity projects to improve frequency and reliability. If you commute north or south, those upgrades can make rail a more attractive option over time. Check the latest on the FrontRunner 2X resources page.
Station Area Plans and zoning
What HB 462 requires
Utah’s 2022 law requires Station Area Plans for cities with fixed-guideway transit, including Draper. SAPs address housing, access, sustainability, and mobility around stations and can lead to zoning changes that allow more homes and mixed-use projects within station areas. Regional guidance notes a December 31, 2025 SAP deadline for cities. Learn more from the MAG Station Area Plan guidance.
What it could mean for you
- Expect more mixed-use and multifamily near stations over time.
- Anticipate new amenities and improved walkability as TOD phases deliver.
- Follow local meetings for updates on how SAPs affect specific neighborhoods. Recent coverage highlights community discussions around the Town Center area, which you can read about in the Draper Journal.
What this means for buyers
- Commute flexibility: Living near TRAX or FrontRunner gives you multiple commute options to downtown Salt Lake City, Lehi, and Provo. As FrontRunner upgrades roll out, longer rail commutes may improve.
- Future context: Station Area Plans may change what gets built nearby. If you prefer a quieter street or larger lot, track SAP progress before you buy.
- Amenity growth: The Point and Vista Station bring parks, retail, and entertainment. Expect more walkable choices over time along with near-term construction activity.
- Practical checks: Review current UTA schedules and parking policies, especially if you plan to park at FrontRunner regularly.
What this means for sellers
- Pricing near transit: Homes within a short walk or bike ride to stations often appeal to buyers who value access and walkability, especially as nearby amenities open. Focus on comps that account for distance to transit.
- Timing and disclosure: The buildout of The Point, Vista Station, and SAP adoption can affect buyer urgency and questions. Be ready to share current plan status and timelines.
- Presentation matters: Elevate your listing with polished staging, professional media, and a clear neighborhood narrative that highlights transit access and evolving amenities.
Neighborhood and transaction facts
- Parking and demand signals: Draper FrontRunner’s garage has about 600 spaces. UTA has charged for parking at times, so verify current policies. Station parking availability can influence buyer demand for nearby homes.
- Train horns and Quiet Zones: Corridor Quiet Zones reduce routine horn noise by design. Confirm the exact boundaries for your address when evaluating a property near the tracks.
Near-term and long-term outlook
- Short term, 1 to 3 years: SAP work and early infrastructure can create buzz. Rezoning discussions may create both excitement and uncertainty. Stay informed and plan your timing.
- Medium term, 3 to 10 years: As phases deliver and rail reliability improves, demand often rises for homes near stations, while new multifamily supply can moderate price growth for certain property types. The net effect depends on scale, timing, and local absorption.
Ready to align your move with Draper’s transit and development timeline? For tailored guidance, pricing strategy, and a standout marketing plan, connect with Utah's Finest Realtors.
FAQs
Are Draper’s TRAX and FrontRunner open now?
- Yes. Draper’s FrontRunner station opened in 2012 and the TRAX Blue Line extension to Draper Town Center opened in 2013, serving local and regional trips.
What is The Point and how could it affect nearby homes?
- The Point is a 600-acre, state-led, transit-integrated district planned with housing, office, parks, and entertainment that can increase amenities and long-term housing demand while adding new multifamily supply.
What are Station Area Plans and will Draper zoning change?
- SAPs are required plans around fixed-guideway stations that often lead to higher allowable density and mixed-use near transit; regional materials note a December 31, 2025 deadline for city plans.
What is FrontRunner 2X and why does it matter?
- FrontRunner 2X is a program to add double-tracking and capacity that can improve train frequency and reliability, making rail commutes more attractive over time.
Is there parking at the Draper FrontRunner station and does it cost?
- The station has a multi-level garage with about 600 spaces; UTA has charged for parking at times, so check current rates and policies before you plan your commute.
Will I hear train horns near the Draper station?
- Draper is within a Quiet Zone that reduces routine horn noise at crossings, but verify the exact Quiet Zone boundaries for your specific address.
