City Creek Center

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The announced plans of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints for the redevelopment of two key blocks in downtown Salt Lake City are stunning, spectacular and far-sighted.

It is difficult to overstate the significance of the billion-dollar project on the future of the capital city. It virtually guarantees a vibrant and appealing core downtown district for decades to come.

Especially impressive is the mixed-use nature of the planned development.

No more fortress-like malls but lots of open space! Six of the 20 acres will be park-like and green, and will include a water feature representing City Creek. As expected, there'll be plenty of retail. High-rise office buildings will cater to commercial needs. And the presence of 200 condominiums and scores of other residential units means people will be in the area well-beyond traditional business hours. There'll even be a large grocery store, something the downtown area sorely needs.

KSL, which ultimately is owned by the LDS Church, expresses appreciation for the presence of an organization that is willing to invest so significantly in its headquarters neighborhood. As stated by one of the presenters before the City Council, "what city in America wouldn't covet this type of commitment and development?" Indeed, City Creek Center promises to become a renowned example of effective urban redevelopment.