Brynn Carnesecca | American Fork Citizen

On the afternoon of July 6, the American Fork Fitness Center released a statement regarding how the $4 million in improvement funds will be used. The funds will go towards three main priorities: improvements to the bathroom and locker room areas, essential aquatic maintenance and ways to maximize use of the current gymnasium space.

The fund allocation has upset some in the community, who allege that once the funds are given to the Fitness Center, various programs will be relocated or cut entirely from the center. This would include the Twisters program, ninja classes and preschool.

The funds will be used for the 2026-27 fiscal year. According to the center, “Fitness center staff are moving toward actionable planning. We are gathering contractor quotes and assessing the scope of work for locker room and aquatic improvements.”

Additionally, the center is focusing on listening to public voices and reviewing the 2025 survey results. Many community members have also spoken at City Council meetings, urging Council Members to exercise stricter control over how the funds will be used.

The phrase “ways to maximize use of the current gym space” is at the root of the discourse. Maximizing the gym space could include moving programs to the basement or cutting them entirely. Outside council meetings, families have spoken up in Facebook groups and online about the program’s benefits.

To remedy the situation, the Fitness Center’s statement said, “For the gymnasium space, staff is evaluating current program locations and usage, including gymnastics, tumbling, itty-bitty sports, the weight room, preschool programming, and other areas of the facility to determine the best path forward.”

The statement also assured that “No final decisions have been made. No programs have been eliminated, and no spaces have been permanently changed.”

Information regarding the use of the funds will be presented to city officials in early August, according to the Fitness Center. The Center also promises to share updates as more concrete information becomes available. They hope to find a solution that can serve Fitness Center patrons, while also maintaining programs that help children and youth develop skills such as gymnastics.

The Center hopes to be more upfront about the changes.

“We want patrons to understand that this is an active planning process,” the statement said. “When decisions are made, patrons will be notified clearly of changes and in advance. We want to express our gratitude and appreciation to all our patrons who visit the fitness center each week and make it possible for these improvements.”

However, the funds are allocated, focus will be given to the three main priorities. More information about the decision will be presented at the City Council meeting in early August. For a detailed schedule of the meetings, visit www.americanfork.gov/1128/Public-Meetings-Notices.

Those interested in providing feedback or learning more are encouraged to visit the Fitness Center website at www.americanfork.gov/229/Fitness-Center or reach out directly to center staff. Additional information can also be found on Facebook @American Fork Fitness Center.

Brynn Carnesecca | American Fork Citizen

The Steel Days festivities are right around the corner. The week will be filled with activities for the community, families and friends. The beloved week-long festival will be held from July 18 to July 25 with various events available to the public, both free and paid.

In the Steel Days magazine, Mayor Brad Frost said, “Steel Days honors our heritage while celebrating our future. It reminds us of the hardworking men and women who helped build this community and the generations who continue to make it such a wonderful place to live, work and raise a family.”

In accordance with the Mayor’s sentiments, this year’s Grand Marshals are the residents and staff of the Utah State Developmental Center. The choice also aligns with the theme, “Superheroes and Everyday Heroes.” This unique choice celebrates members of the community who are rarely recognized in this way.

This year’s lineup is full of family-favorite events, as well as new activities for all ages. Senior Center Senior Games, a Youth Entrepreneur Market, Day at the Beach/Marina, Huck Finn Fish Grab, Kids Parade, Jigsaw Puzzle Competition and Battle of the Bands will all make an appearance at the festivities. For more information beyond the schedule, visit www.steeldaysaf.com/.

Saturday, July 18

●      Car Show – 10 a.m.-6:30 p.m. at Rotary Park

●      Senior Center-Senior Games – 10 a.m. at the American Fork Senior Center

●      Steel Days Fair – 5 p.m.-9 p.m. at Mary and Art Dye Park

●      Youth Entrepreneur Market – 5 p.m.-9 p.m. at Mary and Art Dye Park

●      Car Cruise – 6:30 p.m.-8 p.m. at American Fork Main Street

●      Burnout Contest – 6:30 p.m.-8 p.m at City Administration Building Parking Lot

●      Opening Night Concert – 7 p.m. at Mary and Art Dye Park

●      Opening Ceremonies – 9 p.m. at Mary and Art Dye Park

●      America 250 Drone Show & Hot Air Balloon Glow – 9:45 p.m. at Mary and Art Dye Park

Monday, July 20

●      Golf Tournament – 8 a.m. at Fox Hollow Golf Club

●      Day at the Beach/Marina – 12 p.m.-10 p.m. at the American Fork Beach and Boat Harbor

●      Huck Finn Fish Grab – 7 p.m.-8 p.m. at the American Fork Beach and Boat Harbor

●      Mario Kart Tournament – 4 p.m. at the American Fork Senior Center

●      ​​Symphony in the Park – 6:30 p.m. at Quail Cove Amphitheater

●      Pickleball Glowdown – 10 p.m. at Mary and Art Dye Park

Tuesday, July 21

●      Pickleball Tournament – 6 a.m., 9:30 a.m., 6 p.m. at Mary and Art Dye Park

●      ​Art Show – 10 a.m.-9 p.m. at the American Fork Library​

●      ​Coloring Contest – 9 a.m.-9 p.m. at the American Fork Library and Fitness Center – Final Day to Submit Entries​

●      ​Kids Splash Night – 4 p.m.-8 p.m. at Mary and Art Dye Park

●      Horseshoe Tournament – 5:30 p.m. at Rotary Park

●      Wiffle Ball Tournament – 6 p.m. at Mary and Art Dye Park

●      ​Fitness Festival – Free Cycle – 5 p.m.-5:30 p.m. in the Fitness Center parking lot

●      Fitness Festival – Zumba – 5:45 p.m.- 6:15 p.m. in the Fitness Center parking lot

●      Fitness Festival – Free HIGH Fitness – 6:30 p.m.-7 p.m. in the Fitness Center parking lot

●      Fitness Festival – Free Line Dancing – 7:15 p.m.-7:45 p.m. in the Fitness Center parking lot

●      Fitness Festival – Free Yoga & Sound Bath – 8 p.m.-9 p.m. at Pony Baseball Field (across the parking lot from the Fitness Center)

●      Night Glow Golf Tournament – 8:30 p.m. at Fox Hollow Golf Club

●      Pickleball Glowdown – 10 p.m. at Mary and Art Dye Park

Wednesday, July 22

●      Pickleball Tournament – 6 a.m., 9:30 a.m., 6 p.m. at Mary and Art Dye Park

●      Art Show – 10 a.m.-9 p.m. at the American Fork Library

●      Discount Swim Day – 12:30 p.m.-8 p.m. at the American Fork Fitness Center

●      ​Garden Tour – 4 p.m.-9 p.m. at various locations (see schedule on Garden Tour page)

●      Kickball Tournament – 6 p.m. at Mary and Art Dye Park

●      Carnival – 6 p.m.-10:30 p.m. at Mary and Art Dye Park

●      Kids Parade – 7 p.m. at the Utah State Developmental Center

●      Teen Pool Party – 8:30 p.m.-10:30 p.m. at American Fork Fitness Center

●      Night Glow Golf Tournament – 8:30 p.m. at Fox Hollow Golf Club

Thursday, July 23

●      Pickleball Tournament – 6 a.m., 9:30 a.m., 6 p.m. at Mary and Art Dye Park

●      Quilt Show – 10 a.m.-7 p.m. at the Senior Center

●      Art Show – 10 a.m.-9 p.m. at the American Fork Library

●      Tea with the Queen – 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. or 1 p.m.-2:30 p.m. at Northampton House

●      Carnival – 4 p.m.-10:30 p.m. at Mary and Art Dye Park

●      Food and Vendor Market – 4 p.m.-10:30 p.m. at Mary and Art Dye Park

●      Jigsaw Puzzle Competition – 5 p.m. at the American Fork Senior Center

●      Art Show Reception & Awards – 6 p.m. at Robinson Park

●      Cornhole Tournament – 7 p.m. at Mary and Art Dye Park

●      Battle of the Bands – 7 p.m. at Mary and Art Dye Park

Friday, July 24

●      Pickleball Tournament – 6 a.m., 6 p.m. at Mary and Art Dye Park

●      Art Show – 10 a.m.-9 p.m. at the American Fork Library

●      Quilt Show – 10 a.m.-7 p.m. at the Senior Center

●      Carnival – 10 a.m.-10:30 p.m. at Mary and Art Dye Park

●      Food and Vendor Market – 10 a.m.-10:30 p.m. at Mary and Art Dye Park

●      American Fork’s Got Talent – 7 p.m.-9 p.m. at Mary and Art Dye Park

●      Cornhole Tournament – 7 p.m. at Mary and Art Dye Park

●      Movie in the Park – Dusk (9:30 p.m.) at Mary and Art Dye Park

Saturday, July 25

●      Marching Band Breakfast – 6:30 a.m.-9 a.m. in the Macey’s parking lot

●      Steel Days Run 5K/10K/Kids Race – 7 a.m. at the Fire Station

●      Grand Parade – 9 a.m. at Main Street and 100 E.

●      Carnival – 10 a.m.-10:30 p.m. at Mary and Art Dye Park

●      Art Show – 12 p.m.-4 p.m. at the American Fork Library

●      Quilt Show – 12 p.m.-4 p.m. at the Senior Center

●      Live Entertainment – 12:30 p.m.-6 p.m. at Mary and Art Dye Park

●      Food and Vendor Market – 1 p.m.-10:30 p.m. at Mary and Art Dye Park

●      Big Show Opening Act – 6:30 p.m. at Mary and Art Dye Park

●      Big Show – 8 p.m. at Mary and Art Dye Park

●      Fireworks – 10 p.m. at Mary and ​Art Dye Park​

Madelyn Wilson | American Fork Citizen

To get an impressive fireworks show going in front of your home, you’ll need to spend about $250 on fireworks, if not more. But as we’ve seen in recent weeks, fires are running rampant in Utah, with 279 human-caused fires so far this year. Utah is experiencing an exceptionally dry summer, underscoring the need for special caution.

With the call from Governor Spencer Cox to skip the fireworks this year, many people are stuck figuring out how to spend the nation’s 250th birthday without them. Cox left the decision up to individual cities, but Mayor Brad Frost issued an announcement on June 29 asking residents to follow suit.

“This decision reflects the recommendation of the American Fork City Fire Chief and Fire Marshal considering ongoing drought conditions, extremely dry vegetation, and firefighting resources that remain stretched thin across the state. While we understand the importance of celebrating our nation’s independence, the current environment presents a heightened risk that cannot be ignored. Even one spark can have devastating consequences for homes, businesses, open spaces, and the people who call American Fork home,” the statement read.

The statement continued, “This personal fireworks ban is currently in effect from July 2-5, but fire conditions will be reevaluated and further communication released for the Pioneer Day Holiday.”

For those who haven’t stocked up on their fireworks for the holiday yet, here are some ways you could use that $250 to celebrate this landmark Independence Day:

●      Go all-out on a backyard barbecue for the family. Stock up on burgers, dogs, condiments, watermelon, corn, and make a good old-fashioned apple pie to serve up à la mode.

●      Throw a huge water fight. Grab water balloons, water guns and a slip-and-slide, and let the kids go to town.

●      Host an outdoor movie night. Pick up a projector, hang a white sheet in the yard, and turn on a favorite movie. Stock up on popcorn, treats, and make sure there are plenty of cozy chairs and blankets!

●      Throw an ice cream social for you and the neighbors. Several tubs of ice cream, complete with cones, bowls, and a variety of toppings will get everyone excited to cool down and visit the neighborhood.

●      Head north for a day at Lagoon! For the month of July, Lagoon is selling single-day admission tickets for only $59.95, making a day in the park for a family of four under $250. To save on food, pack a lunch to eat in the park.

●      Escape the heat with an afternoon of bowling, laser tag or arcade games. Jack & Jill and Fat Cats are both great destinations for a fun day for the whole family. Grab some lunch or even catch a movie while you’re at it!

●      Grab an annual National Parks Pass. For only $80, access every national park in the U.S. What better way to honor the country’s 250th anniversary than taking full advantage of all its beauty? Turn it into a camping trip in one of Utah’s own “Mighty Five” parks: Zions, Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef, Arches and Canyonlands.

While it may be disappointing to forgo individual fireworks displays this Fourth of July, we must do our part to keep our communities safe and protect the land we live in. To still get a great fireworks experience, Thanksgiving Point is hosting its Freedom Celebration. Leading up to a fireworks show at 10 p.m., there will be live entertainment, food trucks and family activities.

Admission is free, and gates open at 4 p.m.

Pleasant Grove City will host its “Red White and Boom” fireworks show at Cook Family Park on the Fourth. Food trucks and music begin at 6 p.m., and fireworks begin at 10 p.m.

From all of us at American Fork Citizen, stay safe and be smart this Independence Day.

By Rob Shelton 

The nation turns 250 this Fourth of July. In American Fork, it will arrive without neighborhood fireworks. Mayor Brad Frost announced Monday afternoon that the city will uphold Gov. Spencer Cox’s order banning personal fireworks inside city limits from July 2 through 5.

It’s a hard call in a state that treats the Fourth like a second birthday. Fire officials say this year leaves no room for the usual celebration.

“After careful consideration, American Fork City will uphold Governor Spencer Cox’s Executive Order prohibiting the discharge of personal fireworks within the city limits,” Frost said in a written statement posted to the city website.

The decision follows the recommendation of the city’s fire chief and fire marshal, Frost said, who pointed to ongoing drought, bone-dry vegetation and firefighting crews already stretched thin across Utah. The mayor didn’t soften the stakes.

“Even one spark can have devastating consequences for homes, businesses, open spaces, and the people who call American Fork home,” he wrote. Frost asked residents and visitors to “respect this decision and comply with the temporary restriction,” and to protect what makes the city special “by choosing caution and embracing safer ways to celebrate.”

Frost also paused to mark the cost already paid. His statement honored the lives lost in recent fires along the Utah-Colorado border, where three firefighters were killed responding to wildfires last week.

Not everything goes dark. Professional displays run by State of Utah-certified operators with the proper permits are still allowed, the city said. Maps the city normally publishes showing where fireworks can be set off are suspended for now under the statewide limits.

Residents who see fireworks going off during the ban are asked to call non-emergency dispatch at 801-763-3020. Fire conditions will be reassessed before Pioneer Day, and the city says it’ll release more guidance then.

A statewide tinderbox

American Fork isn’t acting alone. Cox signed an executive order June 25 declaring a state of emergency and handing the state forester authority to ban fireworks across Utah through July 5. The default, under that order, is no fireworks at all.

“The default will be no fireworks,” Cox said at a news conference near the Bonneville Fire burn scar, “but every mayor with every fire warden in the state can decide where fireworks are OK.” The order lets cities carve out specific “municipally designated areas,” but only if the mayor and fire chief jointly identify them and notify the state forester by 5 p.m. on June 30.

The numbers behind the order are stark. Utah has logged more than 350 wildfires this season, burning upward of 141,000 acres, and state officials say roughly three out of four were started by people. Suppression has already cost state and federal agencies more than $20 million. The Iron Fire near Eureka, which forced evacuations, was likely sparked by illegal fireworks, according to State Forester Jamie Barnes. The Cottonwood Fire in Beaver County is now considered one of the most destructive in state history.

State officials warn the penalties are real, too. Anyone who starts a fire can be held criminally and financially liable for the damage, and parents can be on the hook for fires their children cause.

Neighbors fall in line

By Monday evening, the city’s closest neighbors had all landed in the same place: full bans on personal fireworks.

Lehi made it official Monday. “After careful review and consideration, Lehi City will follow the statewide ban on fireworks,” the city said, prohibiting the discharge of all consumer fireworks anywhere in town during the July 2 through 5 window. Lehi’s own permissible-discharge maps are suspended for the duration, and the state forester will reassess before Pioneer Day.

Cedar Hills landed there for a local reason worth noting: the city contracts its fire protection from American Fork, so it’s following the same chief and fire marshal who advised Frost. “At the recommendation of the American Fork Fire Chief and the Fire Marshal, we are following Governor Cox’s Executive Order to prohibit discharging of personal fireworks within the city limits,” Mayor Denise Andersen said. She didn’t pretend it was easy. “I truly wish that conditions were different and we could proceed as normal,” Andersen said.

Pleasant Grove came to the same decision after meeting with public safety officials. Mayor Eric Jensen and Fire Chief Drew Engemann said the city would abide by Cox’s order and prohibit personal fireworks citywide this Independence Day. “This was not a decision we made lightly,” their message to residents read. “We understand that personal fireworks are a cherished tradition, but protecting our residents, neighborhoods, foothills, and first responders must come first.”

The shows still go on

Here’s the thing residents may not have heard over the disappointment: the celebrations aren’t canceled. The bans cover the fireworks in your hand, not the professional shows. And on the country’s 250th birthday, two of American Fork’s neighbors are going big.

Lehi is inviting the whole valley to its July 4 Freedom Celebration at Thanksgiving Point’s Electric Park, 2650 N Ashton Boulevard. Gates open at 4 p.m., admission is free, and a professional fireworks show caps the night at 10 p.m., with live entertainment, family activities and food trucks in between.

Pleasant Grove is keeping its full slate. The day starts early with the 12th annual By the Dawn’s Early Light flag ceremony at the Grove Creek Canyon trailhead at 7:30 a.m., then rolls into Red, White & Boom at Cook Family Park beginning at 6 p.m. The city is billing its 10 p.m. show as one of Utah’s premier professional displays.

“Our Independence Day celebration is absolutely moving forward, and we invite everyone to come celebrate with us,” the Pleasant Grove message read. The takeaway from every city is the same this year: leave the show to the professionals.

Cox, for his part, didn’t hide his own reluctance, calling the move a temporary measure for an extraordinary year. “When people who have dedicated their lives to protecting Utah tell us this year is different, we desperately need to listen,” the governor said.

Passenger count surges

Sally Francom | American Fork Citizen

If you’ve visited the Provo Airport recently, you’ve likely noticed an active construction site as the airport undergoes a major expansion project now one year into a multi-year buildout. Airport officials say the work is progressing on schedule and the new facilities will position the facility for continued rapid growth.

The Provo Airport expansion is the result of a multi-partner effort beginning in early 2025 between Provo City, led during the project’s early stages by former Mayor Michelle Kaufusi, and Utah County Commissioner Skyler Beltran, along with funding from the Utah State Legislature and federal FAA grants.

Beltran reiterated the project represents a major milestone for the region’s economy and connectivity when reached for comment regarding the expansion’s progress.

“This project was a tremendous partnership with Provo City and a generational win for Utah County. It boosts our growing tourism industry and attracts visitors, diversifying our local economy. It’s also very convenient for our residents to travel more easily and usually at a better price. Business is booming with over one million passengers last year [2025] alone,” Beltran said.

He also noted that the construction phase is being carefully managed to ensure uninterrupted operations during expansion.

“The airport expansion is going well under the leadership of airport director Brian Torgersen. Crews are doing an excellent job of keeping the airport running and in welcoming condition even though it’s an active construction zone,” Beltran added.

In a written comment, Provo Airport Communications Manager Jenna Ahern said, “The expansion to our passenger terminal is progressing well and remains on track. We’re currently in the second phase of construction, the North Concourse Addition, which will add three new gates, bringing our total gate count to eight. We anticipate this phase will be complete and operational by December 2027. Construction is being carefully staged so that current commercial operations can continue uninterrupted while the new concourse is built.”

Ahern added that the airport’s long-term plan continues to evolve alongside robust passenger demand. “The North Concourse Addition is our current priority and is expected to open in December 2027. Once that phase is complete, we’ll move to the South Concourse Addition, which will add two more gates — bringing us to our full planned capacity of ten gates — along with shell space for a future Customs and Border Protection facility. That phase is targeted for completion in 2029.”

That growth, she said, is being driven by stronger-than-expected passenger volume since the airport’s commercial terminal opened in 2022.

“Business has been excellent. Since opening our new commercial terminal in July 2022, we’ve seen explosive growth — the airport has surpassed 3.5 million passengers served, far exceeding original projections. That growth led us to add a fifth operating gate, and it’s the driving force behind the current ten-gate expansion. We’re also seeing airlines deepen their commitment to Provo — for example, American Airlines recently upgraded its Dallas/Fort Worth route to mainline service using an Airbus A319, offering more seats and amenities for our passengers,” Ahern said.

Looking ahead, airport leadership expects continued expansion in both routes and airline partnerships as gate capacity increases.

“We’re very optimistic about what’s ahead for route and airline growth at Provo. Our airport has seen tremendous momentum over the past few years, and we expect that trajectory to continue. As our gate capacity expands through the North and South Concourse additions, we’re actively working to bring new airlines and destinations to the community, and we’re confident Provo will continue to be an attractive option for carriers looking to serve fast-growing markets in Utah County. We’re excited about what the future holds and look forward to sharing more details as plans take shape,” Ahern said.

Once complete, the expansion will transform the airport into a ten-gate facility with infrastructure designed to support continued population and economic growth across Utah County. Officials say the phased approach reflects both current demand and long-term expectations for one of the fastest-growing regions in the state.

By: Brynn Carnesecca

American Fork Citizen

On June 9, the American Fork City Council unanimously approved the 2026-2027 $1.58 million PARC tax proposal. Funds will be dispersed to different organizations under the parks, arts, recreation and culture umbrella. Council member Clark Taylor introduced the motion and Council member Ernie John seconded. The remaining council members voted unanimously to approve the ordinance, as presented by the PARC Program Board. 

The council first discussed the approval at the May 6 council meeting. The PARC Tax Advisory Board reviewed various applications, totaling $3,548,224, for the funds before recommending the final allocations. Board members considered community impact, broad appeal, and alignment with city survey results to determine which programs would receive funds. 

After reviewing the applications, the following organizations were approved to receive funds: 

● American Fork City: $1,110,634

● Friends of American Fork Library: $25,050

● Harrington Center for the Arts: $127,000

● Nashville in the Rockies: $7,000

● Timpanogos Arts Foundation: $213,000

● Timpanogos Chamber Music: $8,000

● Timpanogos Chorale of Utah: $14,530

● Wasatch Contemporary Dance: $2,786

● Wasatch Music Alliance: $72,000.00 

The PARC tax became effective April 1, 2015. Since then, funds have been dispersed throughout the city for the benefit of the community. This year’s approved budget will go towards various services and amenities for city residents. 

Highlights include improvements to city parks (including Art Dye), boat harbor dock replacements, American Fork Library programs, Concerts in the Park series, Fork Fest, TAF performing arts programs, and other concerts through the city’s choirs and bands. The library is also set to continue working on teen spaces. 

The breakdown of the funds is as follows. 

● Park-related projects receive 46% 

● Arts-related projects receive 1%

● Recreation-related projects receive 20% 

● Culture-related projects receive 33% 

The city itself is set to receive the largest allocation of funds. The $1,110,634 for the 2026-27 fiscal year will go towards: 

● Art Dye Bond Payment: $350,000

● Monarch Park Improvements: $80,000

● Beehive Park Improvements: $179,150

● Lakeview Park: $185,000

● Evergreen Park Basketball & Pickleball: $95,420

● Boat Harbor Dock Replacement: $24,000

● Lion’s Park Improvements: $125,880

● AF Library – Teen Area Phase 3: $65,684

● Cemetery – Veteran’s Memorial Stone: $5,500

Items that were not recommended for funding included a picnic area at Art Dye Park, park amenities, an aqua climb at the fitness center, concerts at the Living Bethlehem event, and a public art feature in the city. 

The PARC tax will continue through to 2033. It generates revenue through a 0.1% sales tax specifically designated for the PARC activities. The program has grown significantly since it was first approved, collecting $818,889 in its first full year. This year’s allocation of over $1.5 million represents a large jump. 

PARC tax funds change annually. Applicants for 2027 may submit a funding request in the coming months. The budget for 2026-27 will be implemented for the 2026-27 fiscal year. For more information, visit the city council’s agenda for June 9 at www.americanfork.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_06092026-2257 or the PARC tax website, www.afparc.org.  

By: Ryann Anderegg

American Fork Citizen

For more than a century, the Utah State Developmental Center has quietly served as one of American Fork’s most important institutions. This year, the city is shining a spotlight on that legacy by naming the residents and staff of the Utah State Developmental Center (USDC) as the 2026 Steel Days Grand Marshals.

The announcement aligns perfectly with this year’s Steel Days theme, “Superheroes and Everyday Heroes,” recognizing the individuals whose daily acts of compassion, service, resilience, and dedication make a lasting impact on the community.

It is common for grand marshals to be individuals; this year’s honor belongs to an entire community. The last time Steel Days recognized an entire group as grand marshal was during the COVID-19 pandemic, when first responders were honored for their service. In 2026, the city chose to celebrate another group of heroes whose contributions are often less visible but no less meaningful.

The Utah State Developmental Center has been part of American Fork since 1920. For 106 years, the facility has provided care and support for individuals with complex disabilities, becoming deeply woven into the fabric of the city.

American Fork Mayor Brad Frost said the center’s influence reaches far beyond its campus.

“The Developmental Center is part of the fabric of our community, and the residents and caregivers who are there embody what makes American Fork a more caring, compassionate and welcoming city,” Frost said.

The selection reflects the services provided at USDC and the relationships that have developed between the center and the surrounding community over generations.

American Fork City Administrator David Bunker said the city has many connections with the developmental center, including utilities, public safety services, volunteer opportunities, and employment. He emphasized that the center’s greatest impact is found in the people who live and work there.

“The main purpose for USDC is to provide specialized services to members of our community with complex disabilities,” Bunker said.

Each year, volunteers contribute more than 7,000 hours at the center, assisting with dances, church activities, social events, and programs designed to enrich residents’ lives. Volunteers come from throughout the community, giving their time to build friendships and provide companionship.

Through subtle facial expressions, body language, and other nonverbal cues, caregivers understand the needs of residents who cannot always communicate in traditional ways.

“Every opportunity I have had to serve leaves me with a sense of gratitude and love for the residents and caregivers,” Bunker said. “They are truly heroes. It helps me reset my perspective and priorities in life. I get more than I give when I volunteer there.”

The center’s contributions are not only personal but also economic. USDC employs hundreds of caregivers, nurses, therapists, administrators, and support staff, making it a significant employer in the region.

Bunker knows that impact firsthand. As a teenager, he worked at the developmental center through an American Fork High School work-release program.

“While earning money while working at USDC was great, I value the experience I gained from that opportunity even more,” he said. “It prepared me in many ways to start a lifelong love of enjoying work with a diverse group of people.”

Today, USDC continues to evolve and expand its services. Last summer marked a major milestone with the opening of the center’s new Comprehensive Medical and Therapies Building. The facility modernized healthcare and therapeutic services available to residents while strengthening support systems for individuals with developmental disabilities and related conditions.

Leaders hope to continue expanding programs through training opportunities, consultations, respite services, crisis evaluations, and community-based support over the coming years.

Mayor Frost said these efforts reflect the dedication of both residents and caregivers.

“We celebrate the remarkable individuals who call the Developmental Center home, but also the caregivers whose dedication helps create a place of belonging, dignity and friendship,” he said.

For city leaders, naming USDC residents and staff as Steel Days Grand Marshals is about recognizing a legacy that has shaped American Fork for generations.

“Many great individuals live and are taken care of at USDC,” Bunker said. “They love, they laugh, they value friendships. And mostly they teach by being who they are.”

As part of the recognition, residents can participate in Steel Days festivities, including the Children’s Parade on July 18. The public is also encouraged to attend USDC’s annual Hill Celebration on June 17 and 18.

This year’s Steel Days theme celebrates superheroes, but city leaders believe the most inspiring heroes are often the ones who serve quietly and consistently.

After more than a century in American Fork, the Utah State Developmental Center remains a symbol of compassion, service and community. Through the residents who call it home, the caregivers who dedicate their lives to serving others, and the volunteers who continue to give their time, USDC exemplifies the spirit of everyday heroism.

As American Fork honors its 2026 Steel Days Grand Marshals, the message is simple: heroes do not always wear capes. Sometimes they wear scrubs, name tags, or work boots. Sometimes they are volunteers, caregivers, or residents. And sometimes, they simply show up every day on the Hill.

April Slaughter | American Fork Citizen

As the nation nears its 250th birthday, the American Fork Library is helping residents celebrate — with local stories, familiar places, and shared community memories.

The library is participating in several America 250-related efforts this summer, including the Spark the Spirit Challenge and the American Fork Memories Project, a community storytelling effort running from May 1 to Aug. 31 that invites residents and others with ties to American Fork to submit positive memories about living, working or spending time in the city.

Kerstin Daynes, a clerk and member of the library’s programming team, emphasized that while the Memories Project is not the library’s central contribution to the 250th celebration, it naturally complements the library’s mission.

“We are a place of stories,” said Daynes.

The idea for the American Fork Memories Project came from David Rodeback, who is collecting stories through the project’s Substack page. To mark the anniversary, the goal is to gather 250 memories during the summer. To support this effort, the library is helping spread the word and will host writing workshops during this period to encourage more people to participate.

Rodeback, who was named Writer of the Year by the League of Utah Writers in 2025, has published books, written locally and taught writing across Utah, making the project a natural fit for the library’s memory-writing workshops.

The project seeks short, positive stories from people connected to American Fork — about schools, teachers, neighborhoods, businesses, homes, parks, traditions or events.

Daynes said the stories do not have to be grand or historically dramatic to matter. A memory could be about Parker’s Drive-In, the Steel Days parade, a meaningful teacher at American Fork High School or time spent in a grandmother’s garden.

“It could be anything to celebrate, really, American Fork,” Daynes said.

To submit, participants can use a Google Form linked at afmemories.substack.com, with each story around 200-300 words. Rodeback publishes the submissions on Substack, and the collection will remain available digitally. Daynes also noted that, depending on community response, the memories could eventually become part of a more permanent printed collection.

The project began May 1, but Daynes shared that submissions have been slower than organizers hoped, with only about 10 received so far. She hopes that, as awareness grows, more residents will contribute.

The library will host American Fork Memories writing workshops for teens and adults on June 29 and July 30 at 7 p.m. Attendees can bring a memory and receive feedback from the Good AF Writers, a local writing group.

Daynes said the workshops are intended not only to help people polish their submissions, but also to make the writing process less intimidating.

“They are going to give feedback on people’s contributions, or maybe sit and talk with people who come and ask them questions to help them think of ideas and ways to communicate their stories,” Daynes said.

Participants can draft and submit their memories during the workshop. Daynes hopes these events will foster connections among writers in the community.

“It will be great to highlight both collaboration and networking, bringing together writers at all levels for meaningful conversations,” she said.

The library is also promoting the Spark the Spirit Challenge, which also runs from May 1 to Aug. 31, encouraging residents of all ages to explore American Fork by completing community-based tasks through Beanstack.

A bookmark distributed by the library invites residents to “celebrate America’s 250th birthday by exploring our incredible community together.” Participants can sign up at americanfork.beanstack.org and choose the Spark the Spirit Challenge.

Daynes said the challenge guides participants to landmarks such as the boat harbor, parks, the library, and city council meetings, helping residents engage with the community.

“It takes you throughout all of American Fork,” Daynes said.

Despite these special America 250 programs, the library’s main focus this summer remains its summer reading program, which encourages reading across all age groups and includes a variety of activities. The America 250 efforts, though, offer the library a unique chance to connect reading and writing with civic participation and local history during a milestone year.

For Daynes, American Fork’s long history makes it a meaningful place to gather memories. She noted that the city has been central to the lives of many people in surrounding communities as well.

“It just shows how central American Fork really is because it’s been here for a really long time,” she said.

While America’s 250th anniversary is national in scope, these library initiatives invite residents to consider how the country’s history is composed of smaller, local stories — the places people gathered, the teachers who shaped them, the traditions they remember, and the everyday experiences that made a city feel like home.

Residents interested in submitting memories can visit afmemories.substack.com. Those who want help shaping their stories can attend the American Fork Memories writing workshops on June 29 or July 30 at 7 p.m. at the American Fork Library.

Rob Shelton | American Fork Citizen

Brielle Anderson watched smoke from a brush fire roll over her neighborhood on June 9 and thought about her children. Then she went to City Hall.

Anderson lives near 900 W. 420 S., a newer development near the American Fork FrontRunner station. That afternoon, a fast-moving brush fire near the I-15 Pioneer Crossing exit shut down the road serving her community. For Anderson, that was the whole point.

“The road that connects to that entire community, there’s only one road, and it’s 200 South,” she told the council during the public hearing on the city’s FY2027 budget on June 9. “They had to close off one road, so there’s only one outlet and inlet. If that fire had spread, our community would have been trapped.”

She described a densely packed stretch of condos and town homes flanked on two sides by farms, with thousands of homes depending on a single road and no secondary exit. The fire, she said, made the stakes unmistakably clear.

“Today was very scary with my children, knowing there were tons of people,” Anderson said. “If we all tried leaving at the same time, people would have ended up dead. If it turned into a serious fire situation, it’s all condos right there at the beginning. Those caught fire, that would spread like crazy into those town homes, home to home to home, with no way to get out.”

Anderson asked the council to push for additional access roads into the area before any expansion or closure of the existing route. She noted rapid residential growth in the corridor and said nothing has been done to add new access points. City officials did not respond to her request during the meeting.

The fire that prompted her comments broke out near the FrontRunner station and the Pioneer Crossing I-15 exit. Flames spread rapidly on both sides of the on-ramp and moved quickly toward the FrontRunner and Union Pacific rail corridors, according to a department statement. American Fork Fire & Rescue, Pleasant Grove City Fire Department, and crews from several other agencies mounted a coordinated attack from multiple positions.

FrontRunner UTA service, Union Pacific rail operations, and the freeway on-ramp were all temporarily shut down to give crews safe access. A bus bridge ran briefly between Lehi and Vineyard. Firefighters gained control of the blaze and completed mop-up operations to prevent any further spread. No injuries were reported. The cause remains under investigation.

Anderson’s comments came during a packed council session focused on the city’s proposed FY2027 budget, which includes a 9% property tax increase tied to staffing a new fire station on the south side of the city, adding roughly $2.83 per month to the average homeowner’s bill.

The access road concern isn’t the only infrastructure worry tied to south side growth. Resident Mark Walker told the council a $20 million bond for southwest development infrastructure ultimately exceeded $22 million, and called for a moratorium on new development until planning is completed and cost-sharing agreements with developers are in place.

Relief may be coming, but not soon. Utah County Commissioner Skyler Beltran announced this week that the Mountainland Association of Government’s 2030 project list, adopted at a recent regional meeting, includes the Pony Express Parkway expansion in Saratoga Springs and its future extension into American Fork. American Fork and Lehi approved a cost-sharing agreement in August 2025 for the Pony Express Extension – Phase 2, which carries a 2030 inflated project cost of $25.5 million according to MAG’s potential funding scenario. Right-of-way acquisition from private property owners remains pending before construction can begin.

Even when it arrives, the extension won’t fully solve the problem. At a January council work session, City Administrator David Bunker warned that the road as currently designed reaches 700 West but has nowhere to go from there, requiring a further connection to 1500 South before it can effectively return traffic to the freeway.

Council Member Ryan Hunter echoed the concern, saying at the time, “The last thing we want to do is push that traffic into this area that’s already catastrophic.” The MAG funding table also includes two additional American Fork road projects, a 620 South Connection at $9.8 million and a 700 West Connection at $11.5 million, both identified as potential investments that would help close that gap.

In the meantime, 200 South, the road Anderson identified as her neighborhood’s only lifeline, is undergoing its own improvements. According to the American Fork City website, last updated in February 2025, a $25 million project will reconstruct and widen portions of 200 South near the FrontRunner station to two lanes in each direction and add a multi-use trail from Mill Pond Road to I-15. Phase 1 is complete; Phase 2 has secured funding as of early 2025 and is in final design with right-of-way acquisition still underway. The project improves the existing road but does not add a second access point to the south side.

The cause of the June 9 fire remains under investigation.

Rob Shelton | American Fork Citizen

Three American Fork police officers showed up at a resident’s door at 10:15 p.m., and when the family didn’t open up, a supervising lieutenant suggested charging them with obstruction.

That’s the account presented in a June 10 video published by the Lackluster Channel, an accountability journalism outlet on YouTube, documenting an incident involving an American Fork family identified only by the husband’s first name, Eric.

The incident began with a five-year-long mail dispute. Eric and his wife shared a house number with a neighbor on an adjacent street, which caused packages and letters to be sent to the wrong address. In 2020, American Fork police got involved and had a “keep the peace” meeting with both neighbors. In 2024, mail mix-ups continued and Eric sent an email to the neighbors. 

About five months later, in early 2025, Eric’s wife crossed paths with the neighbor’s husband at their shared place of worship, the local temple. According to the Lackluster video, they had a brief conversation and parted ways. The neighbor’s account differed sharply, she told police her husband had been approached without warning and confronted about the mail dispute, though she wasn’t present herself. Hours later, she called police on the non-emergency line.

Officer Bronson Kitchen was assigned the call. He phoned the neighbor, heard her account and committed to issuing Eric’s wife a warning — all before speaking to anyone on Eric’s side.

“I will definitely give her a call and let her know that it’s a warning this time, but that if the harassment continues, she can be arrested,” Kitchen told the neighbor, according to audio in the Lackluster video.

When Kitchen called, Eric answered. He told Kitchen the department had no legal basis for the call and hung up. Kitchen called back. Eric threatened to report him for electronic communication harassment and hung up again.

“You have no business calling, so leave us the hell alone and stop calling here,” Eric told Kitchen during the first call, according to the video.

Officers Kitchen, Jensen and Richardson then drove to Eric’s home and knocked on the door. The family didn’t answer. Eric called 911 and requested a Utah County sheriff’s deputy, citing prior unsatisfactory encounters with American Fork Police in connection with the ongoing neighbor dispute.

“We have a crazy neighbor who called the police on my wife,” Eric told the 911 dispatcher, according to audio in the video. “They’re using police as a way to harass us, and this is what they’re doing.”

While Eric stayed on the line with dispatch, officers continued knocking. Body camera audio caught Richardson outside the door: “Ma’am, my name’s Officer Richardson, American Fork Police Department. Can you just come talk to me?”

The family didn’t come to the door. When the Utah County sheriff’s deputy eventually arrived, Kitchen, holding citations already in hand, summarized the situation himself.

“This started off as just a harassment call that the neighbor didn’t want her cited or arrested, so I just tried to call, just to warn her,” Kitchen told the deputy, according to body camera audio. When the deputy noted they had hung up, Kitchen replied, “So I called back again.”

What happened next is captured on body camera footage reviewed in the Lackluster video. Lt. Quinn Adamson, the same officer involved in the disputed “Reckless Ben” case covered previously by American Fork Citizen, communicated from off-scene and suggested charging the family. Officer Jensen relayed the suggestion on camera: “Quinn was wondering if we go obstruction with it too, because she’s refusing to answer the door. She hung up on you twice. She stared at me through the door and then ran away.”

A disorderly conduct citation and an obstruction citation were written and mailed to the family. They never opened the door.

Neither charge appears to have gone far. According to the video, which is based in part on government records requests, Detective Cory Maxfield later told Chief Cameron Paul the case wasn’t strong. Local prosecutor Cherylyn Egner reportedly agreed, saying she did not feel good about moving forward with the charges.

The Lackluster video also raises a more serious allegation: that after Eric filed public records requests related to the incident, records specialist Adam Ellison sent a fax and a follow-up email to Eric’s employer. Mayor Brad Frost allegedly called Eric’s manager directly, a conversation lasting approximately one hour, and 83 pages of records related to Eric’s communications with the city were transmitted to his employer rather than to Eric.

Mayor Frost did not respond to a request for comment on those allegations. The American Fork Police Department declined to comment on the Lackluster Channel video.

Body camera footage from portions of the incident was muted or redacted. The Lackluster video plays audio captured on Eric’s Ring camera system during periods when officers had muted their body cameras.

You can view the approximate 36 minute video by Lackluster at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aUjH12tPW1A.