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451 South State Street
Room 418
Salt Lake City UT 84111

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Mon - Fri 8 am to 5 pm

Phone
801.535.7240
801.535.7245 FAX

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Latest News

General Contractors Bidding for Gallivan Center Renovation Project  Shortlisted by Selection Committee

The RDA's Selection Committee for general contractor services has shortlisted the following firms to bid for the Gallivan Center Renovation Project:

• Jacobsen Construction

• Okland Construction

• Layton Construction Companies, Inc.

• Big-D Construction

• Gramoll Construction

• Hogan & Associates Construction

RDA Acquires the Utah Theater

On December 23, 2009, The Redevelopment Agency of Salt Lake City (RDA) approved the acquisition of the property formerly known as The Utah Theater, located at 144 and 156 South Main Street, from developer Rick Howa. The RDA Board of Directors today voted unanimously to authorize the acquisition of the Theater.

The purchase of the Utah Theater is the next step in the City’s efforts to breathe new life into Main Street by establishing a downtown cultural district. The further development of world class arts and cultural facilities will augment and support the numerous facilities and organizations that already make downtown Salt Lake City their home. Existing and future facilities will serve residents and visitors by fostering economic growth and providing enriching and educational experiences. With potential to further increase the concentration and variety of art galleries, retail shops, performing arts centers and commercial space, the district will attract a diverse population of residents and visitors to the area and create a dynamic and vibrant Main Street of Utah’s Capital City, which is already experiencing extraordinary growth and vitality.

 “The highly anticipated acquisition of this site by the RDA is of great benefit to the residents of Salt Lake City as we move forward in creating a vibrant downtown cultural district,” said Mayor Ralph Becker. “This district will complement the County-run Abravanel Hall, Capitol Theatre and Rose Wagner to further invigorate downtown as a regional destination for culture and entertainment.”

“The resurgence of Main Street is happening before our eyes as we witness the City Creek development progressing along with the investments the RDA, City and County are making to bring the idea of Salt Lake City’s cultural district into reality,” added RDA Board Chair Eric Jergensen. “Together, we are focused on and committed to a renaissance of downtown Salt Lake City.”

The permanent and long term use of the building it yet to be determined, but will be addressed through a public RFP process. The sale was be finalized on January 6, 2010.

Public Open House Held for Downtown Streetcar Study

The Redevelopment Agency of Salt Lake City (RDA) will hosted an open house on Monday, December 7 as part of a Downtown Streetcar Study. The public was invited to attend the open house and provide input on several streetcar alignments being considered for Downtown Salt Lake City.

The RDA and Salt Lake City are exploring the feasibility of a Downtown streetcar line to further establish walkable, transit-oriented development and provide non-automobile circulation options for residents and visitors. Across the country, modern streetcar projects have rejuvenated neighborhoods and business districts, attracting thousands of new residents and shoppers and billions in investment dollars. The success of streetcars is rooted in the commitment of the community and the excitement that it generates among local residents, businesses, and property owners.

Please continue to visit our website for future updates.
 

Utah Performance Center Developer Selected

In March 2009, RDA staff issued a Request for Qualifications for developers to work with the RDA and Salt Lake City to design and construct a 2500-seat Broadway-style theater with a possible combination of commercial, residential, and mixed-use buildings. Based upon a review of the submitted materials and interviews, the selection committee recommended the RDA select and enter into exclusive negotiations with Garfield Traub Swisher/Hamilton Partners (GTS/HP).

On October 13, 2009, the RDA Board adopted a resolution to enter into such negotiations with the recommended developer. RDA staff will begin working with GTS/HP to negotiate a contract for predevelopment services on the project. Work items will include public and arts community involvement; establishing a program and preliminary design; assessing the financial needs of the project; reviewing all available financing options and recommending a financial package for construction; assisting the City with negotiations for the acquisition of property needed for the project; and potentially engaging an operator for the facility to assist with program and design. In conducting the predevelopment planning described, GTS/HP will retain an exclusive right to develop the project upon City approval of all aspects of the project.

Rio Grande Operator Selected

In an effort help provide additional low-income housing units in Salt Lake City, as well as assist residents who cannot qualify for housing in other nearby housing facilities, the RDA will purchase the Rio Grande Hotel, located at 428 West 200 South. On October 13, 2009, the Board passed a resolution to enter into negotiations with HomeInn Rio Grande, LLC, to reopen the hotel and provide 49 low-income, single resident occupancy housing units. The Board also approved funds to initiate needed repairs in preparation for occupancy, including electrical, heating, and cooling upgrades. The RDA anticipates the hotel to reopen by early 2010.

Among the first hotel guests will be those currently renting rooms at the Regis Hotel located on State Street. Rio Grande Lodgers will have access to a common kitchen/eating area as well as laundry facilities at no additional cost to them. The HomeInn Rio Grande Hotel’s mission is to provide clean, low-cost Single Resident Occupancy (SRO) housing while maintaining a pedestrian friendly atmosphere.

Developer Selected for State Street/SRO Properties

On Tuesday, October 13, 2009 the Board of Directors selected The Laporte Group to enter into exclusive negotiations for the acquisition of the properties located at 237-251 South State Street. The LaPorte Group is proposing a mix of historical renovation and new construction. The two southerly buildings will be renovated as a mixed use development with a restored historic theater and affordable housing units. The northerly two buildings will be demolished and replaced with market rate rental units. The RDA looks forward to working with LaPorte on this exciting project. 

Signage Package on 222 South Main Street

Hamilton Partners has completed the final drawings and specifications for signage for the new building located at 222 South Main Street. This is the final design review required by the RDA for the parking structure and building. Hamilton anticipates receiving its Certificate of Occupancy the first part of November 2009 with tenants moving into the building in the spring of 2010.