A recent survey of Main Street areas in Vernal has documented 137 historic properties as part of a reconnaissance level study. The project, which included historical research and fieldwork completed between April and June 2025, aimed to evaluate the city's historic built environment.
In November 2024, the Utah State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) selected Kirk Huffaker Preservation Strategies (KHPS) to conduct a Reconnaissance Level Survey across four Utah communities: Gunnison, Mt. Pleasant, Salina, and Vernal. Across these four communities, a total of 395 historic resources were surveyed.
During the survey process, each property within the study area was documented and evaluated based on its age, architectural characteristics, and level of historic integrity. Buildings were classified using SHPO guidelines to determine if a property contributes to the historic character of the area, has been significantly altered, was constructed outside the historic period, or no longer exists.
Survey evaluations considered factors such as building materials, form, construction details, architectural style, foundations, windows, chimneys, and building massing. These elements were examined to help determine the original age and character of structures even when later modifications are present.
The survey provides information intended to support community history, historic preservation planning, and future development decisions. In certain instances, additional research may be recommended to determine if a building is eligible for listing on the National Register of Historic Places.
