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Richard Piatt ReportingDowntown Salt Lake City is on the verge of one of the biggest redevelopment projects ever, but details are a secret until tomorrow afternoon. That's when the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints will unveil its plan for the area now occupied by the ZCMI and Crossroads Malls.
Only select city officials know what the church wants to do and they've all been sworn to secrecy, but I asked one person how excited they were about it, on a scale of 1-10. They said a 17!
The feeling on Main Street isn't a bad one. Temple Square is busy, people ride TRAX in and out frequently; but it's also clear that something needs to happen there. Tomorrow, the church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints will unveil exactly what that something will be.
That announcement will basically be an update from three years ago, when the Church first announced its plans.
H. David Burton, Presiding Bishop: "We are irrevocably committed to the economic future of Salt Lake City, Utah."
Back then, plans called for a mix of retail and residential buildings, accented by extensive skylights. The plans also called for extensive demolition, including the Key Bank tower and Inn at Temple Square buildings.
People who have seen the plans say some of those elements still exist, but that some are different. One source says the plans remind him of a mix of the Gateway, and San Diego's Horton Plaza development.
Other Main Street businesses---like Sam Weller's bookstore--have endured a lot of ups and downs in recent years. Tony Weller is hoping the new plans will make a long-term difference.
Tony Weller, Sam Weller's Bookstore: "It sounds good, but until I see the actual plans, I'll have to be cautious with my optimism."
Across from Temple Square, the Utah Woolen Mills have also survived a lot of changes. This high-end clothing store will get to stay in this building, even amid massive demolition.
Bart Stringham, Utah Woolen Mills: "Our issue isn't where we go, it's how long we stay. We're not being forced to move, we're being allowed to stay, and they're honoring their lease."
On Church orders, details of the plan are not being revealed yet. One feeling is universal, though; the residential component of the project is a key element.
