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The population of the United States is approaching a significant milestone. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, there'll soon be 300 million of us in this country. America's population reached the 100 million mark in 1915, and the 200 million mark in 1967. The nation is growing - rapidly - and changing.
So, too, is Utah.
The Beehive State is among the five fastest-growing states in the nation. Utah's two-percent growth rate is double the national average. And the St. George area topped the nation in growth between 2000 and 2005 at 32 percent.
Such numbers serve to underscore both the challenges Utah faces as well as the opportunities that are here.
The Utah economy is strong! Jobs are plentiful! Business is booming!
On the other hand, congestion on the highways is increasing. Schools are crowded! It's difficult to keep pace with critical infrastructure needs.
And it's only going to intensify.
About a million more Utahns will be added by the year 2020, and by 2050, it is projected there'll be nearly five-and-a-half million of us.
Still, in KSL's view, it's a good problem to have. The nation's population milestone and Utah's contribution to it, offer a reminder that effectively managing surging growth must remain among our highest priorities.
