SALT LAKE CITY — The Utah Inland Port Authority (UIPA) has named Sen. Jerry Stevenson as the inaugural recipient of the Utah Infrastructure & Economic Vision Award, recognizing his foundational leadership and lasting contributions to Utah’s infrastructure and economic future. he award was presented March 17 during UIPA’s Congress of Ports event.
The award honors individuals whose foresight and public service have advanced statewide connectivity, freight mobility, and long-term economic competitiveness. Stevenson’s leadership has been central to shaping Utah’s modern logistics and infrastructure framework.
“Senator Stevenson understood early that Utah’s future depended on thinking differently about infrastructure,” said Ben Hart, executive director of UIPA. “His leadership helped move the Utah Inland Port Authority from concept to reality, and the results we’re seeing today reflect the long-term vision he brought to this work.”
As the legislative champion behind the creation of UIPA, Stevenson played a pivotal role in establishing a statewide model to coordinate infrastructure investment and strengthen Utah’s freight network. That framework has supported key milestones, including the expansion of intermodal rail service with BNSF, the remediation of the Crossroads Port, and the establishment of fourteen project areas designed to support regional economies and long-term growth.
Throughout his tenure, Stevenson remained actively engaged as UIPA evolved, supporting policy refinements that strengthened governance, expanded statewide impact, and aligned infrastructure investments with Utah’s long-term economic needs.
As he concludes his final legislative session, UIPA officials said the award reflects both his service and the enduring legacy of his work.
The Utah Infrastructure & Economic Vision Award recognizes leaders whose contributions extend beyond individual projects to shape the long-term trajectory of the state’s economy and infrastructure systems.
Date: March 18, 2026
Author: Kaitlin Felsted