Salt Lake City is exploring a major update to Main Street designed to make it a welcoming place for people rather than just cars. A new study outlines a vision for a year-round pedestrian promenade intended to connect downtown's most loved spots, ranging from City Creek and Temple Square to Gallivan Plaza and the restaurant blocks.
The vision includes a pedestrian-friendly street from South Temple to 400 South that provides spaces for walking, sitting, dining, and relaxing. The plan suggests block-by-block identities featuring performance zones, art installations, and family-friendly play areas. To increase comfort, the study proposes an expanded tree canopy and more green space to reduce heat.
Regarding transportation, the concept involves fewer cars on Main Street, with most blocks shifting to pedestrian-only use. While TRAX will remain in place, design changes are being considered to improve safety and station access. Additionally, the plan includes added space for bikes and scooters depending on the specific block, while ensuring deliveries and emergency access are maintained through designated routes and times.
The city intends to build the project in phases to limit disruptions and coordinate with nearby development. Early improvements would likely focus on areas with aging infrastructure or locations where outdoor dining and pedestrian activity can grow quickly. However, the full build-out would take several years and will depend on funding and community feedback.
Currently, the study does not decide final street closures, schedules, traffic changes, exact construction timelines, detailed designs for utilities, or final costs and funding commitments.
The study builds on the success of past Open Streets events, which saw large numbers of people enjoying car-free spaces. As downtown's population grows, officials note that more outdoor spaces are needed for daily use and special events. So far, community feedback indicates a preference for a pedestrian-first Main Street with more shade, greenery, and outdoor dining.
