Salt Lake City Selects Architects for Downtown District

Salt Lake City has announced key partners for the next phase of its ambitious downtown redevelopment project. This initiative aims to transform the area around the Salt Palace Convention Center and the Delta Center into a vibrant district for sports, entertainment, culture, and conventions. The selections include leading architectural and construction firms, signaling a significant step forward for the project led by Salt Lake County and Smith Entertainment Group (SEG).

The redevelopment seeks to create a cohesive urban environment. It will connect the City Creek Mall with the Delta Center, enhancing walkability and creating new public spaces. This effort involves both local and national expertise, reflecting the scale and importance of the project for Salt Lake City's future.

Architectural and Construction Leadership Announced

Salt Lake County confirmed the selection of architectural and construction firms for the renovation of the Salt Palace Convention Center. These firms will play a crucial role in modernizing one of the city's key venues.

Populous Holdings, Inc. and MHTN Architects have been chosen to lead the architectural design efforts for the convention center's update. Populous is known globally for its work on major sports and entertainment venues, while MHTN Architects brings significant local expertise to the project.

For construction management, Construction Control Corporation and RLB were selected. These companies will oversee the physical development and renovation of the Salt Palace, ensuring the project stays on track and meets its objectives.

"These selections represent some of the best talent in the industry, with a unique and necessary blending of local and national expertise," said Salt Lake County Mayor Jenny Wilson in a press release on Friday.

This blend of local and national talent is intended to bring fresh perspectives and proven experience to the complex undertaking. The renovation is a central component of the broader downtown revitalization.

HKS to Lead Master District Design

Beyond the Salt Palace renovation, Smith Entertainment Group (SEG) made a separate but equally important announcement. SEG has chosen HKS as the lead architecture and design firm for the master plan of the entire downtown district.

HKS is a globally recognized firm with extensive experience in large-scale urban and entertainment district design. The company operates 29 offices across nine countries, indicating its international reach and diverse portfolio. Their selection highlights the comprehensive nature of the district's development.

HKS has a strong track record in designing major sports and entertainment hubs. Their previous projects include:

• AT&T Stadium and Arlington Experience District: Home to the NFL's Dallas Cowboys, this project showcases integrated sports and entertainment facilities.
• Victory Plaza in Dallas: Located at the American Airlines Center, this area serves as a key gathering space for fans of the NBA's Dallas Mavericks and NHL's Dallas Stars.
• Huntington Bank Stadium Masterplan: A significant undertaking for the NFL's Cleveland Browns, focusing on stadium and surrounding area development.
• SoFi Stadium: Home to the NFL's Los Angeles Rams and Los Angeles Chargers, known for its innovative design and multi-use capabilities.

These projects demonstrate HKS's capability to create dynamic, integrated districts that serve multiple functions, from sports to retail and residential. Their expertise will be vital in shaping Salt Lake City's new downtown area.

Enhancing Community and Connectivity

The project's vision extends beyond new buildings. A primary goal is to enhance community opportunities and improve the overall urban experience for residents and visitors.

Mayor Wilson emphasized the importance of "intentional placemaking" in the district's development. This approach focuses on designing spaces that foster social interaction and community engagement. The reimagined area is intended to serve as a central gathering point for diverse groups.

"As excited as I am to see the new district develop and our visitor economy grow, I’m most excited about enhancing community opportunities through intentional placemaking," Mayor Wilson stated. "Through this collaborative effort, beloved venues and spaces will be improved and there will be better walkability and connectivity downtown. The reimagined area will serve as a gathering space for residents and visitors alike."

Improved walkability is a key aspect, aiming to create a pedestrian-friendly environment that encourages exploration and easy access between different attractions. Better connectivity downtown will link existing amenities with the new developments, creating a more integrated urban core.

Future Outlook for Downtown Salt Lake City

The selection of these design and construction partners marks a critical milestone for the Salt Lake City redevelopment. It moves the project from conceptual planning to detailed design and implementation.

The creation of a new Sports, Entertainment, Culture and Convention district is expected to boost the local economy. It will attract more visitors, support local businesses, and create jobs. The enhanced facilities will also provide residents with improved access to cultural and entertainment options.

The partnership between public and private entities, including Salt Lake County and Smith Entertainment Group, is central to the project's success. This collaboration aims to leverage diverse resources and expertise to achieve a shared vision for downtown Salt Lake City.

Further updates on the project's progress, including detailed design renderings and construction timelines, are expected as the planning phases advance. This development is set to redefine a significant portion of the city's urban landscape for decades to come.

• The project aims for better integration of existing and new facilities.
• Economic benefits are anticipated through increased tourism and local spending.
• The focus on placemaking seeks to create meaningful public spaces.