Momentum continues to build around the future of the Fairpark area and the Jordan River corridor — and the Westside Coalition is actively part of the conversation.
A recent KSL TV feature spotlighted the evolving plans surrounding the Fairpark, the Jordan River, and the broader Power District vision. The story included interviews with Westside Coalition President Dan Strong and Jeff Olson of the Fair Park Community Council, underscoring the important role community leadership plays as these discussions move forward.
As major public and private partners explore river restoration, infrastructure improvements, economic development, and even the possibility of Major League Baseball expansion, one principle remains central: meaningful community involvement must guide the process.
The Jordan River: From Corridor to Destination
Leaders have described the Jordan River as Utah’s “great urban river” — not simply a channel running through neighborhoods, but a shared civic asset woven into the life of the West Side.
Plans under discussion include:
- Restoration of riparian habitat and removal of invasive species
- Replanting with native grasses and vegetation
- Improved recreational access for walking, biking, and paddling
- Long-term ecological improvements that benefit the Great Salt Lake
This is more than beautification. It is ecological stewardship, economic opportunity, and neighborhood investment all intersecting in one place.
The river runs through multiple jurisdictions, requiring coordination between city, county, state, and private stakeholders. That kind of collaboration is complex — and it is exactly why organized community voices matter.
The Fairpark & Power District: A Generational Opportunity
The Fairpark has long been a jewel of the West Side — home to the Utah State Fair and generations of shared memories. Surrounding investments now being discussed, including the Power District vision, represent what many leaders have called a “once-in-a-generational opportunity.”
Recent reporting has also highlighted Salt Lake City as a serious contender for MLB expansion, with the Fairpark area central to that proposal. While much remains to be determined, the potential scale of development reinforces the need for clear community priorities and accountability.
The Westside Coalition believes growth should:
- Strengthen existing neighborhoods
- Support small and local businesses
- Improve infrastructure and public safety
- Preserve neighborhood identity
- Expand access to recreation and open space
- Deliver long-term environmental benefits
Development should not happen to the West Side — it should happen with the West Side.
The Role of the Westside Coalition
The Westside Coalition brings together community councils across the West Side to collaborate, share information, and advocate collectively. By uniting neighborhood leadership, we ensure that large-scale projects reflect the needs and values of residents.
The KSL feature demonstrates something important: West Side voices are organized, informed, and engaged.
We are not reacting after decisions are made. We are at the table, helping shape the discussion.
As conversations continue around river restoration funding, legislative support, public-private partnerships, and long-term development planning, the Coalition will:
- Monitor proposals and legislative actions
- Facilitate communication between councils and stakeholders
- Provide updates to residents
- Encourage participation in public input opportunities
- Advocate for responsible, community-centered progress
Stay Engaged
The future of the Fairpark and Jordan River corridor will shape the West Side for decades. This is a pivotal moment.
We encourage residents to watch the KSL feature included above, stay informed, attend community meetings, and remain involved as plans evolve.
The West Side has always been proud, resilient, and community-driven. As investment and attention grow, so does our responsibility to ensure that progress reflects the people who live here.
The Westside Coalition remains committed to thoughtful stewardship, collaborative leadership, and strong advocacy for our neighborhoods.
The West Side is organized.
The West Side is engaged.
And the West Side will continue to lead.