Salt Lake City has unveiled the final design concept for the Fleet Block public open space, a 2.4-acre destination in the Granary District designed to provide nature, recreation, and social justice themes through integrated public art. The project, located at the corner of 900 South and 300 West, aims to transform the historic site into a shaded, green community hub following years of public engagement and community advocacy.
Community-Driven Design Principles
The final vision for the open space was shaped by two extensive rounds of public input, including surveys, open houses, and meetings with community members, stakeholders, and the families of individuals depicted in previous site murals. Feedback from these sessions consistently prioritized the need for shade, green space, gathering areas, safety, and cooling features. The Salt Lake City Department of Public Lands confirmed that the final design aims to create a welcoming and inclusive environment that fosters connection and healing.
Features of the Open Space
According to Salt Lake City officials, the design is built upon several core principles intended to serve as a neighborhood anchor. The space is envisioned as a place for community, featuring an amphitheater, open lawn, and shaded seating areas to support connection. It is also designed as a place to rest, incorporating two shade structures, 150 new trees, and drought-tolerant native plantings to ensure climate resilience and long-term comfort. Additionally, a water feature will be included to provide essential cooling elements.
Public Art and Social Justice
The design also prioritizes the site as a place for justice and progress. A significant public artwork will be commissioned to reflect themes of social justice, equity, and collective healing, honoring the history of the site. The Salt Lake City Arts Council has already conducted a national selection process for the commission, receiving 175 applications from across the country. The council expects to announce the selected artist and artwork details in the coming months.
A History of Meaningful Use
The site's history is deeply tied to the community's social fabric. Previously used as a city vehicle maintenance, repair, and fueling facility until 2009, the block took on new significance in 2020 when anonymous artists painted temporary murals on the vacated buildings to memorialize individuals killed during police interactions across the United States. The City paused rezoning in 2020 to reflect on community input and reconsider the site's future in light of these murals.
Mixed-Use Development and Partnerships
The redevelopment of the Fleet Block is a multi-faceted project that includes the public open space, public artwork, mixed-use development, and new mid-block streets. The City is partnering with Brinshore Development and Mercy Housing for the development of two northern parcels along 800 South, which will feature mixed-use residential and retail space. This development is being managed through Salt Lake City's first Community Benefits Agreement (CBA) to ensure community priorities drive the project.
Economic and Community Impact
Funding for the project includes $6 million from the 2022 Parks, Trails, and Open Space General Obligation Bond, as well as a $2 million grant from the Bezos Earth Fund’s Greening America’s Cities program. When completed, the project is expected to benefit at least 3,200 residents living within a 10-minute walk of the site, and more than 55,000 residents in the Central Community Plan area will benefit from reduced heat exposure and improved access to green space.
Project Timeline and Next Steps
The timeline for the Fleet Block project is set to continue through 2027. A final preferred vision for the public space should be determined by late 2026, with design work anticipated to continue into 2027. Construction on the public open space and the installation of the public artwork are expected to begin in late 2027.
