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Rio Grande Master Plan and Zoning Map Amendment

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Rio Grande Master Plan and Zoning Map Amendment
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The Council approved a request to rezone 32 properties in the Rio Grande District and update the Downtown Plan to allow for additional height and align with the Rio Grande Vision and Implementation Plan.

Key takeaways

  • Thirty-two properties located between 200 South to 400 South and 500 West to 600 West will be rezoned from GMU (Gateway Mixed Use) to D-4 (Downtown Secondary Central Business District).
  • The update replaces the Depot District Catalytic Project with the Rio Grande District in the Downtown Plan.
  • Midblock walkway locations are being updated to align with property lines and create new connections to Eccles Avenue.
  • The properties involved are owned by either the Community Reinvestment Agency or the University of Utah.
  • Council members expressed support for the proposal, noting that increased density could assist with growth and housing needs.

Rio Grande Master Plan and Zoning Map Amendment

The Council approved a request to rezone 32 properties in the Rio Grande District and update the Downtown Plan to allow for additional height and align with the Rio Grande Vision and Implementation Plan.

The Proposal

The Proposal

The Community Reinvestment Agency (C.R.A) is requesting the following changes to align with the Rio Grande Vision & Implementation Plan:

Change the zoning for 32 properties between 200 South and 400 South, and 500 West and 600 West, from GMU (Gateway Mixed Use) to D-4 (Downtown Secondary Central Business District). If approved, this would allow taller buildings.

Update the Downtown Plan by replacing the Depot District Catalytic Project with the Rio Grande District. It also changes midblock walkway locations to better fit property lines and future development, including new connections to Eccles Avenue. See the map below for current and proposed walkway locations.

Learn More about the Proposed Updates

Read the Downtown Plan

View the Rio Grand District

Project Location

Project Location

The properties are between 200 South and 400 South, and 500 West and 600 West. They are owned by the Community Reinvestment Agency or the University of Utah.

Image courtesy of Salt Lake City's Planning Division

The Planning Commission Recommendation

Planning Commission Recommendation

On Oct. 22, 2025, the Planning Commission recommended approving the proposal. For more information, you can view the meeting materials or watch the meeting.

Council Discussions

Council Discussions

March 24 Council Vote

During the formal meeting, the Council unanimously approved the rezone request and the Downtown Plan update.

View the Ordinance

Watch the Vote

Public Hearing and Briefing Details

March 10 Public Hearing

During the formal meeting, the Council accepted input on the request. Most expressed support for the request and said the additional density could support growth and provide needed housing. Several speakers also emphasized that the proposal could be more impactful if integrated with the Rio Grande Plan.

Watch the Hearing

Feb. 3 Briefing

Planning staff presented the Council with an overview of the Rio Grande District and the rezone request. The Council inquired about potential impacts on the 500 W. right-of-way, intentions to sell or retain properties in the area, and any conflicts with the Techlink study.

Watch the Discussion

Read the Council Staff Report

View Planning's Presentation

View CRA's Presentation

Resources

Administrative Transmittal

Feb. 3 Council Staff Report

Downtown Plan

Rio Grande District

CRA Feb. 3 Presentation

Planning Feb.3 Presentation

Planning's Project Page

Learn more about Salt Lake City Zoning Districts

Explore more:

District 2 Bulletin Board

About District 2

Your Council Member

Tags: Community Reinvestment Agency, Downtown, Rio Grande Plan, Zoning

Sources used (1)

  • www.slc.govOfficialRio Grande Master Plan and Zoning Map Amendment

Article details

CategoryOfficial Source
CitySalt Lake City, Cottonwood Heights
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