Salt Lake City’s Department of Public Lands will begin closing sections of Donner Trail Park, located at 2903 Kennedy Dr., starting Monday, June 8. The closures are necessary to begin construction on a series of improvements intended to enhance the park experience and meet neighborhood needs.
Park reopening timeline
The 14-acre park is scheduled to fully reopen this fall following the completion of several upgrades.
New features and art installation
Planned enhancements for the park include the installation of new playgrounds, a Memorial Tree Grove, water-wise plantings, and a new pathway. The project will also feature a public art installation titled Journey Lines by artist Adam Kuby.
Artistic vision of Journey Lines
The Journey Lines installation will utilize sculpted berms and stone elements to reflect the history of those traveling to Salt Lake City, designed to integrate with the landscape and evoke movement through mountain corridors.
Playground and irrigation upgrades
Both existing playgrounds will be replaced with modern equipment designed for a variety of ages and abilities. Additionally, the park's irrigation system will be upgraded to improve efficiency and support both new and existing trees.
Community input on final design
The final design for the project was shaped by two rounds of public engagement, including in-person events and surveys. Feedback from residents indicated a preference for more shade near playgrounds, improved landscaping maintenance, additional tree canopy, and more picnic areas.
Historical significance of park name
The park is named after the historic Donner-Reed Party that traveled through Emigration Canyon toward California.
Funding for the project includes $750,000 from the Parks, Trails, and Open Space General Obligation Bond. An additional $434,000 from the City’s Capital Improvement Program will support the Memorial Tree Grove.
While construction is underway, visitors are encouraged to use nearby locations including Rotary Glen at 2859 Emigration Canyon Rd., Sunnyside at 1735 Sunnyside Ave., Davis Park at 916 S. 2000 East, and Laird Park at 1185 S. 1800 East.
