Update: This petition has been updated to also reflect the legacy of BYU and the many businesses, students, and community members connected to both universities. Additional historical context and data are included below the original post using ai generated information.

University Parkway is more than just a name; it symbolizes the rich history and cultural significance of our community. The proposed change to rename University Parkway disregards the historical importance and the community sentiment attached to its name. For decades, Utah Valley University has stood as a beacon of education and progress, directly reflecting the values of knowledge and growth associated with our community. 
Renaming this iconic roadway could lead to a loss of identity and diminish the pride our community holds. University Parkway is home to Utah Valley University that is known for fostering an environment of learning and innovation. Visitors and residents alike associate the name with the immediate presence of higher learning opportunities, making it a geographical and intellectual landmark.

Moreover, the cost and confusion associated with changing the name could burden taxpayers and disrupt local businesses. Businesses have invested in branding and marketing with University Parkway as part of their identity. Altering the name might necessitate changes in signage, marketing materials, and a host of other expenses that could strain local resources.

It is essential to honor the wishes and voices of the residents who cherish University Parkway as a crucial part of their community's history. We request that decision-makers preserve the name University Parkway, maintaining its historical essence and ensuring that it continues to inspire future generations.

Join us in standing firm on this issue by signing the petition to ensure University Parkway remains as a symbol of heritage and progress for our community.

**Additional Update***

University Parkway doesn’t just represent a name; it carries the legacy of higher education in Utah Valley that for decades has been home to Utah educational excellence; Brigham Young University. 

Keeping “University” in the name honors this shared identity. It reflects the challenges we’ve embraced, the opportunities we’ve created, and the way our community continues to grow through education. Whether it’s UVU’s rise as a major university or BYU’s long-standing traditions, University Parkway symbolizes a culture of learning, debate, and progress that defines our valley.

Changing the name risks erasing that story. Preserving it means honoring where we’ve come from and ensuring future generations recognize Orem, Provo, and Vineyard as places where education and community go hand in hand.

*At least 170 businesses would have to update their addresses if “University Parkway” is renamed (conservative minimum based on 150+ University Place tenants plus other named businesses, centers, and university facilities along the corridor in Orem/Provo).  

These businesses include (examples):

Utah Valley University: 800 W University Pkwy, Orem

UCCU Center: on the same road

UCCU Ballpark: on the same road

BYU Broadcasting: 701 E University Pkwy

Marriott Center: on the same road

BYU Conference Center: 770 E University Pkwy  

University Place (mall): 575 E University Pkwy;

• over 150 shops (RC Willey, H&M, etc.).  

Parkway Village (Provo): 2255 N University Pkwy

Walmart Neighborhood Market: anchored center with numerous co-tenants.  

Lowe’s: 140 W University Pkwy

Hobby Lobby: 360 W University Pkwy

Krispy Kreme: 417 W University Pkwy

Crumbl: 160 E University Pkwy, Ste G

Chili’s, OldNavy, University of Utah Health

Multiple auto dealers: 

Ken Garff Volkswagen, Ken Garff Honda, Orem Mazda, Ken Garff Nissan, Sky Ford, Sky Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram.  

Note: In Orem/Provo, “University Pkwy” also maps to the grid as 1300 S (Orem) and 1230 N (Provo), so some directories show either format; the street-name change would still cascade to signs, marketing, invoices, and digital listings for businesses using the University Pkwy form. (Examples above use listings that explicitly show “University Pkwy”.)