Salt Lake City considers three proposals for a downtown baseball stadium

Salt Lake City, Utah – The outlook for Smith’s Ballpark remains uncertain, yet there are signs that it is becoming somewhat clearer.

At the city council meeting scheduled for Tuesday, Dec. 10, the Redevelopment Agency of Salt Lake City is set to unveil three potential options for the ballpark located at the intersection of 1300 South and West Temple, a site that has been in place since 1994.

One possibility is to completely preserve the ballpark stadium. The area is set to become a versatile venue for sports throughout the year, accommodating everything from professional events to amateur competitions and community activities. Mayor Erin Mendenhall of Salt Lake City announced that the ballpark will also be designed to accommodate a regulation-size soccer field.

Mendenhall explained that the design could accommodate areas for activities such as a farmer’s market, festivals on West Temple, and local retail spaces.

The second idea aims to transform the ballpark into a center for arts and culture. Mendenhall stated that this design concept aims to maintain the western segment – or front – of the stadium, repurposing it for performances and events. The field’s green space will be utilized for festivals and feature natural walkways.

The final alternative involves tearing down the stadium and constructing a new facility in its place. This idea emphasizes integrating nature into the urban environment by exposing the three creeks that converge beneath 1300 South.

“Imagine a calm urban atmosphere,” Mendenhall stated. “There would be bike paths and small parks.”

A city council meeting is set for 2 p.m., where further details on the three options will be shared.
Mendenhall stated that the community has played a crucial role in shaping all three options, offering feedback at every stage of the process. Smith’s Ballpark will remain in use for baseball, as the Utes intend to utilize the field for their 2025 season. The Utes are set to play their last season at the downtown ballpark, as plans are underway for a new on-campus venue on Guardsman Way.