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Equality Utah's GOP endorsements are under fire

Critics say the group should have put queer candidates ahead of "bridge-building."

News

Equality Utah&#x27;s midterm endorsements have drawn criticism over their support for GOP candidates rather than LGBTQ+ Democrats.Why it matters: It&#x27;s the latest in what critics describe as a pattern of capitulation by the most visible LGBTQ+ rights group in the state.

Historic Tower Theatre in Salt Lake City will reopen in 2028

The restoration of the 1928 venue comes as local independent theaters in the U.S. see a resurgence.

Salt Lake City&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="iconic Tower Theatre" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/salt-lake-city/2023/08/07/salt-lake-city-tower-theatre-9th-historic-reopen" data-vars-content-id="592c3734-47a5-4380-9097-81bc08d6dee4" data-vars-headline="Historic Tower Theatre in Salt Lake City will reopen in 2028" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/salt-lake-city/2023/08/07/salt-lake-city-tower-theatre-9th-historic-reopen" target="_self">iconic Tower Theatre</a> is on track to reopen in 2028 after closing in 2020. Why it matters: The beloved arthouse theater is among a rare few from its era still standing, serving as a gathering place for cinephiles to celebrate film culture.

Here's where Utah's universal by-mail elections stand

Here's what's new this year, and what to expect in future elections.

Utah&#x27;s midterm elections will take place by mail as usual, now that the U.S. Supreme Court has rejected President Trump&#x27;s last-minute effort to restrict mail ballots.Why it matters: Voting by mail is <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="wildly popular" data-vars-click-url="https://www.sltrib.com/news/politics/2026/08/18/most-utahns-rely-vote-by-mail/" data-vars-content-id="476535a0-a7ed-4a3a-b8d0-44b7d5330f84" data-vars-headline="Here&#x27;s where Utah&#x27;s universal by-mail elections stand" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.sltrib.com/news/politics/2026/08/18/most-utahns-rely-vote-by-mail/" target="_blank">wildly popular</a> in Utah, but a series of legal challenges and state policy debates have repeatedly put its future into question.

How MLB's expansion timeline gives Salt Lake an edge

SLC has a site, public funding and, crucially, an experienced team owner.

Major League Baseball is closer to making <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="expansion plans" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/salt-lake-city/2025/07/23/salt-lake-city-nashville-major-league-baseball-expansion" data-vars-content-id="ba808a3e-0a25-446c-a1d5-d7a207aa0939" data-vars-headline="How MLB&#x27;s expansion timeline gives Salt Lake an edge" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/salt-lake-city/2025/07/23/salt-lake-city-nashville-major-league-baseball-expansion" target="_self">expansion plans</a> now that its high-priority location decisions for existing teams are squared away.Why it matters: The more imminent MLB expansion becomes, the likelier Salt Lake is to become home to one of two new pending teams, ESPN&#x27;s Jeff Passan <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="reports" data-vars-click-url="https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/49863028/mlb-expansion-favorites-candidates-salt-lake-city-nashville-montreal-raleigh" data-vars-content-id="ba808a3e-0a25-446c-a1d5-d7a207aa0939" data-vars-headline="How MLB&#x27;s expansion timeline gives Salt Lake an edge" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/49863028/mlb-expansion-favorites-candidates-salt-lake-city-nashville-montreal-raleigh" target="_blank">reports</a>.

Salt Lake City reveals Fleet Block's open-space design

Fleet Block is one of Salt Lake City's most anticipated redevelopment projects.

Salt Lake City on Wednesday unveiled its final concept design for Fleet Block&#x27;s 2.4-acre <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="open space" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/salt-lake-city/2026/03/20/fleet-block-redevelopment-green-space-open-granary-district" data-vars-content-id="06e3aff6-b131-4ed7-8d0c-a5546319b840" data-vars-headline="Salt Lake City reveals Fleet Block&#x27;s open-space design" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/salt-lake-city/2026/03/20/fleet-block-redevelopment-green-space-open-granary-district" target="_self">open space</a>, complete with an amphitheater lawn, community gardens and a shaded pavilion. The big picture: Fleet Block in the growing Granary District is one of Salt Lake City&#x27;s most anticipated mixed-use redevelopment projects.

Salt Lake City nixes Sugar House Park hotel

Opponents say it would block views of the Wasatch Mountains.

The Salt Lake City Council on Tuesday rejected plans for a proposed <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="seven-story hotel" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/salt-lake-city/2025/10/22/sugar-house-hotel-rezoning-plan" data-vars-content-id="9c4a8a32-7a60-49c5-9c15-d0297b2e8e2b" data-vars-headline="Salt Lake City nixes Sugar House Park hotel" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/salt-lake-city/2025/10/22/sugar-house-hotel-rezoning-plan" target="_self">seven-story hotel</a> next to Sugar House Park that has sparked outcry from residents.Why it matters: It&#x27;s the latest development at the former Sizzler site to stall after failing to gain broad support in a city that prizes its open space.

Downtown Salt Lake City's social scene drives economic growth

Downtown used to be seen as a "vertical office park," but now much of its activity occurs after 6pm.

An increase in visitors, residents and workers is powering Salt Lake City&#x27;s downtown economy five years after the COVID-19 pandemic reshaped daily life.Why it matters: A bustling downtown can boost local businesses, attract investment and generate tax revenue to fund city services.

Salt Lake City unveils Smith's Ballpark revamp plan

The proposal, largely shaped by community feedback, aims to revitalize the Ballpark neighborhood.

Salt Lake City revealed final plans Tuesday to <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="redevelop Smith&#x27;s Ballpark" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/salt-lake-city/2023/06/02/ballpark-neighborhood-design-salt-lake-city-2023" data-vars-content-id="6d861063-bbdc-4ef5-b9ec-aff83194f40c" data-vars-headline="Salt Lake City unveils Smith&#x27;s Ballpark revamp plan" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/salt-lake-city/2023/06/02/ballpark-neighborhood-design-salt-lake-city-2023" target="_self">redevelop Smith&#x27;s Ballpark</a> into a vibrant neighborhood, featuring green space, housing, commercial areas and an entertainment venue.Why it matters: The proposal, largely shaped by community feedback, aims to revitalize the city&#x27;s Ballpark neighborhood by adding more local businesses, natural and public gathering areas and residential options.

Downtown Farmers Market may become a year-round fixture at revitalized Pioneer Park

The park has suffered a poor reputation for decades with concerns around crime and homelessness.

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Utah&#x27;s largest farmers market" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/salt-lake-city/2024/05/31/downtown-farmers-market-salt-lake-beer-garden" data-vars-content-id="57c9666d-2f05-4e14-a0c8-a0b3b52fe318" data-vars-headline="Downtown Farmers Market may become a year-round fixture at revitalized Pioneer Park" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/salt-lake-city/2024/05/31/downtown-farmers-market-salt-lake-beer-garden" target="_self">Utah&#x27;s largest farmers market</a> could become a year-round staple at Pioneer Park.Driving the news: Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall and the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Downtown Alliance" data-vars-click-url="https://www.downtownslc.org/" data-vars-content-id="57c9666d-2f05-4e14-a0c8-a0b3b52fe318" data-vars-headline="Downtown Farmers Market may become a year-round fixture at revitalized Pioneer Park" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.downtownslc.org/" target="_blank">Downtown Alliance</a> signed an agreement Thursday to revitalize Pioneer Park with plans to build a permanent structure for the market and form a public-private partnership to manage the 10-acre park.

Salt Lake City Council strikes deal to develop proposed Power District

Supporters of the project say the mixed-use development will "revitalize" the west side.

The Salt Lake City Council Tuesday unanimously approved rezoning nearly 100 acres of land on the west side owned by the Larry H. Miller Company.Why it matters: Supporters of the project say the mixed-use development will &quot;revitalize&quot; the west side and open the possibility for the state to welcome a Major League Baseball team.

Asher Adams hotel to open in Salt Lake City's historic Union Pacific Depot

The 225-room hotel will house a New American restaurant, coffee shop and three bars.

Real Estate

The <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="new 225-room hotel" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/salt-lake-city/2023/10/12/asher-adams-hotel-the-gateway-union-pacific" data-vars-content-id="b795eb81-e633-409d-8f7d-3d984e95c218" data-vars-headline="Asher Adams hotel to open in Salt Lake City&#x27;s historic Union Pacific Depot" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/salt-lake-city/2023/10/12/asher-adams-hotel-the-gateway-union-pacific" target="_self">new 225-room hotel</a> at the 100-year-old-plus Union Pacific Depot in Salt Lake City is slated to open on Oct. 31. The big picture: The <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Asher Adams hotel" data-vars-click-url="https://www.asheradamshotel.com/" data-vars-content-id="b795eb81-e633-409d-8f7d-3d984e95c218" data-vars-headline="Asher Adams hotel to open in Salt Lake City&#x27;s historic Union Pacific Depot" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.asheradamshotel.com/" target="_blank">Asher Adams hotel</a> is situated in a rapidly growing area of Salt Lake City, near the site of the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="planned sports and entertainment hub" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/salt-lake-city/2024/10/02/downtown-district-sales-tax-hike" data-vars-content-id="b795eb81-e633-409d-8f7d-3d984e95c218" data-vars-headline="Asher Adams hotel to open in Salt Lake City&#x27;s historic Union Pacific Depot" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/salt-lake-city/2024/10/02/downtown-district-sales-tax-hike" target="_self">planned sports and entertainment hub</a> that will anchor the state&#x27;s NBA and NHL teams.

Salt Lake City officials unveil next steps for Smith's Ballpark site

Local leaders have the rare opportunity to redevelop 13.5 acres of land in the city's Ballpark neighborhood.

A Chicago-based design firm may soon reveal three new concepts for <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Smith&#x27;s Ballpark" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/salt-lake-city/2023/01/18/salt-lake-bees-new-ballpark-daybreak-south-jordan" data-vars-content-id="4022246e-c118-449c-a7c8-fc4a62f590ba" data-vars-headline="Salt Lake City officials unveil next steps for Smith&#x27;s Ballpark site" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/salt-lake-city/2023/01/18/salt-lake-bees-new-ballpark-daybreak-south-jordan" target="_self">Smith&#x27;s Ballpark</a>.Why it matters: The planned departure of the Salt Lake Bees means the city could entirely revamp the 13.5 acres it owns in the historic Ballpark neighborhood.

Salt Lake City Council approves $60 million for capital improvement projects

The funding is aimed at improving pedestrian safety, infrastructure and outdoor spaces.

The Salt Lake City Council set aside funding this week for a proposed linear park network and &quot;urgent&quot; repairs at Memory Grove Park.Driving the news: Council members approved <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="nearly $60 million" data-vars-click-url="https://fy25-cip-slcgov.hub.arcgis.com/" data-vars-content-id="6d617961-f159-43e4-99e9-e1898af83ef1" data-vars-headline="Salt Lake City Council approves $60 million for capital improvement projects" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://fy25-cip-slcgov.hub.arcgis.com/" target="_blank">nearly $60 million</a> on Tuesday to enhance the city&#x27;s public spaces.

Study reveals vision for Salt Lake City's reimagined downtown

Municipal leaders want to revitalize downtown into a "world-class city center."

Salt Lake City recently unveiled <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="a study" data-vars-click-url="https://www.slc.gov/ed/main-street-promenade-study/" data-vars-content-id="286cb27f-3223-4dbb-b122-758ca2e51607" data-vars-headline="Study reveals vision for Salt Lake City&#x27;s reimagined downtown" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.slc.gov/ed/main-street-promenade-study/" target="_blank">a study</a> to turn downtown&#x27;s Main Street into a pedestrian promenade.Why it matters: Municipal leaders want to revitalize downtown into a &quot;world-class city center.&quot;

Development 🏗️

Salt Lake City reveals Fleet Block's open-space design

Salt Lake City nixes Sugar House Park hotel

Downtown Salt Lake City's social scene drives economic growth

Salt Lake City unveils Smith's Ballpark revamp plan

Downtown Farmers Market may become a year-round fixture at revitalized Pioneer Park