Davis County Library’s Bountiful branch is closing Jan. 26 for a major renovation that could take up to two years. The project will update aging infrastructure with seismic, plumbing, heating and electrical upgrades, add features like a new patio, and modernize the more than 50-year-old building so it can continue serving the community for decades to come.

Debate over future of historic Cottonwood Paper Mill intensifies at planning meeting
At a recent Cottonwood Heights Planning Commission meeting, residents voiced strong opposition to a proposal that would allow demolition of the Old Cottonwood Paper Mill, an early-1880s industrial landmark listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Supporters of preservation stressed the mill’s historical and cultural value, while developers argue the structure is unsafe and too costly to restore; a final decision will be made by the City Council next year.

The Davis County Library’s Bountiful branch at 725 S. Main will close Jan. 26 for a nearly two-year renovation that includes seismic upgrades, new plumbing, heating, electrical systems, a refreshed interior, and an outdoor patio, aiming to extend the life of the longtime community facility. A smaller temporary library location will open in Bountiful in March so patrons can continue to access services during construction.

A developer and the Salt Lake City Council are in conflict over a proposed tall mixed-use tower east of downtown that preservation advocates and some neighbors argue could undermine the character of nearby historic districts. The debate centers on height limits, design compatibility, and how new development should respect the scale and heritage of surrounding historic neighborhoods.

Cottonwood Heights is weighing a controversial proposal that could lead to the demolition of the historic Cottonwood Paper Mill — an 1880s industrial landmark listed on the National Register of Historic Places — as developers seek to redevelop the site. Preservation advocates are urging the community and city leaders to consider alternatives that retain the mill’s historic character amid growth pressures.

At a public hearing in Cottonwood Heights, community members and preservation advocates voiced strong opposition to plans that would allow the demolition of the historic Cottonwood Paper Mill, an 1880s stone industrial landmark listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Speakers argued the mill’s heritage value and distinctive character merit preservation rather than removal for new development.

High West Distillery partners with archaeologists to sample a 150-year-old bottle of whiskey unearthed near Alta, Utah. The rare artifact, recovered from a 19th-century mining site, was carefully opened and analyzed to understand early frontier distilling practices, offering both historical insight and a literal taste of Utah’s past as part of ongoing archaeological preservation work.

Historic Cottonwood Paper Mill in Cottonwood Heights may be demolished as part of a proposed redevelopment project. The stone mill — built in the 1880s, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and one of Utah’s few surviving 19th-century industrial landmarks — is facing a Conditional Use Permit review that would allow its removal for new construction. Preservation advocates are urging community members to speak up at upcoming public hearings to highlight the mill’s historical significance and explore alternatives to demolition.

A historic Cottonwood paper mill in Salt Lake County may face demolition as developers seek to remove the aging structure due to safety concerns and redevelopment plans. Preservation advocates and some community members are raising alarm, urging careful consideration of the mill’s historic value before any irreversible action is taken.

Salt Lake County leaders have reaffirmed their commitment to finishing the reconstruction of the 10th East Senior Center in Salt Lake City after its future was briefly in doubt during budget discussions. Mayor Jenny Wilson announced construction will continue and the county is pursuing new market tax credits to help cover future operational costs, aiming to reopen the facility in early 2027 for the seniors it serves.

Climbing USA’s plan to incorporate the historic 119-year-old Salt Lake Mattress Building into its new Rio Grande District campus ran into funding issues after structural challenges were discovered. The national climbing governing body is now asking for at least $250,000 more to rebuild the deteriorating landmark with historic features rather than adaptively reuse it, and Salt Lake City officials are considering that option as the most cost-effective way to preserve the historic structure while moving the project forward.

Salt Lake City’s historic University Club building is being converted to new office use while preserving its architectural character. The century-old landmark at 71 E. South Temple — long a social hub for the city’s professionals — is undergoing interior renovations to become Class A office space. Developers and preservation advocates emphasize retaining key historic features, such as character-defining elements of the exterior and main gathering spaces, as the building adapts to modern commercial needs.

Utah is celebrating its 130th year of statehood and planning the grand opening of the new Museum of Utah in June 2026. The Utah Historical Society is marking Utah History Month by highlighting efforts to preserve and share the state’s past, and a traveling version of the museum’s exhibits will tour communities statewide ahead of the Capitol Hill museum debut.

A new high-end seafood and wine bar called Brownstone 22 is planned to open this winter in a historic downtown Salt Lake City brownstone at 22 E. 100 South. The concept, from the team behind Felt Eatery & Bar, aims to offer an East Coast–style oyster-and-wine experience with a seafood-focused menu and wines and cocktails, with an early-February opening targeted to secure the building’s conditional liquor license. The building, built in 1890, is considered one of downtown’s distinctive historic structures.

The Hill Aerospace Museum is using 3D scanning and 3D printing to preserve historic aircraft and artifacts. By digitally capturing detailed scans of planes, engines, and other museum pieces, the museum can create accurate 3D-printed replicas for display, restoration, and archival purposes — helping safeguard aviation history even when original parts are too fragile or rare to preserve directly. This high-tech approach enhances traditional conservation and ensures future generations can experience these historic aircraft in interactive and educational ways.

Thousands of historic artifacts — including a bottle of alcohol more than 150 years old — were unearthed during an archaeological excavation at the old mining town site in Alta, Utah. The discoveries, part of work in the historic boomtown area, offer a rare glimpse into everyday life in the 19th-century mining community, and local archaeologists and specialists are studying the items to learn more about the region’s frontier history.

Salt Lake City celebrated its 175th anniversary with a look at lesser-known facts about the city’s history, from its founding in 1847 to its growth into Utah’s capital. The piece highlights surprising historical details — including early street names, key figures, architectural landmarks, and cultural developments — that help tell the story of how Salt Lake City evolved, underscoring the depth of its heritage.

A 150-year-old bottle of Utah-made alcohol was opened and analyzed by archaeologists and distillers, offering a rare taste of the state’s 19th-century frontier history. Found during an excavation in Summit County, the artifact offers insight into early regional craft and settlement life, as experts study its contents and context to understand historic production and consumption practices better.

The University of Utah is reconsidering its plans for the Jon M. Huntsman Center, exploring renovation of the 56-year-old historic arena instead of building a completely new multipurpose facility. Athletic director Mark Harlan said the university will decide this year whether to renovate the longtime home of Utes basketball, gymnastics and volleyball or move forward with replacement plans, with other campus facility projects—such as upgrades at Rice-Eccles Stadium—also influencing the decision.

Salt Lake City is considering new street signage to highlight and promote its East Side historic districts. The City Council reviewed proposals for markers that would help residents and visitors identify neighborhoods with designated historic status, strengthen community identity, and support preservation awareness amid ongoing development pressures. The signage effort is seen as a way to celebrate the city’s architectural heritage and connect historic areas more clearly within the urban fabric.

One of the Salt Lake City bars destroyed in the massive August fire on historic Main Street is nearing a reopening, with White Horse’s owners saying they expect to welcome patrons again by the end of the month after rebuilding much of the interior while preserving the building’s shell. The blaze tore through several beloved downtown nightlife spots, and progress on restorations like this reflects ongoing recovery efforts for the historic district.

Salt Lake City’s Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral, a historic Byzantine-style church built in 1923 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, is awaiting federal review before its planned multimillion-dollar renovation can move forward. The local Greek Orthodox community has completed design and FEMA assessment phases for repairs — largely to fix earthquake damage from the 2020 Magna quake — but work can’t begin until federal funding approvals are finalized. FEMA is expected to cover about 90 % of the restoration costs, with the parish raising the remainder. Construction is anticipated to start once federal review is complete.

In 2025, twelve Utah sites were added to the National Register of Historic Places, highlighting the state’s diverse heritage—from pioneer-era homes and early subdivisions to archaeological districts and civic landmarks. The newly listed places include several historic homes in Farmington dating back to the 1800s, the Canaan Gap Archaeological District with ancient petroglyphs, and the Mountair Acres Subdivision Historic District in Millcreek, one of the city’s earliest residential developments. Other additions include the Clover Ward Meetinghouse in Tooele County; the Nettie Gregory Center in Salt Lake City, significant for its role in local Black civic life; and Springdale Hilltop Cemetery and the Springdale Town Jail, reflecting early settlement and New Deal-era work. The Toovuhsuhvooch Archaeological District near Nine Mile Canyon also joined the register, preserving evidence of prehistoric farming practices. These listings help protect and promote Utah’s historical and cultural assets.

Utah added a dozen new sites to the National Register of Historic Places in 2025, highlighting the state’s commitment to preserving its diverse heritage. The list includes pioneer-era homes in Farmington, the ancient Canaan Gap Archaeological District, the Nettie Gregory Center in Salt Lake City significant to Black civic life, historic cemeteries and Depression-era structures like the Springdale Town Jail, as well as prehistoric agricultural sites in Nine Mile Canyon — all now officially recognized for their cultural and historical importance.

Twelve historic sites across Utah were added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2025, highlighting the state’s heritage and cultural diversity. The newly listed places include several 19th-century pioneer homes in Farmington, the Canaan Gap Archaeological District with ancient petroglyphs, the Clover Ward Meetinghouse (a historic church building), the Nettie Gregory Center in Salt Lake City significant to Black civic life, the Mountair Acres Subdivision Historic District in Millcreek, the pioneer Springdale Hilltop Cemetery and Springdale Town Jail, and the Toovuhsuhvooch Archaeological District in Nine Mile Canyon, among others. These additions recognize and help preserve important architectural, cultural, and archaeological places throughout the state.

Salt Lake City’s historic Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral is set for a major multimillion-dollar restoration to repair damage from the 2020 Magna earthquake and preserve the century-old Byzantine-style landmark. The 101-year-old cathedral — listed on the National Register of Historic Places and a focal point of the city’s early Greek immigrant “Greek Town” community — will receive about 90 % federal funding from FEMA, with the parish covering the remainder. Construction could begin next summer and take around 18 months, with additional upgrades planned to ensure the building lasts another century.

After the devastating 2025 fire on Salt Lake City’s historic Main Street, affected bars and restaurants — including London Belle, White Horse, Whiskey Street, and Los Tapatios — are planning to rebuild, and the city is supporting recovery efforts. Fire officials and community leaders say the goal is to restore and revive this beloved historic entertainment district, preserving its character while helping displaced workers and businesses recover.

The annual Morgan Farm Nativity—an iconic Christmas tradition featuring handcrafted historic buildings and scenes—is back on display in Nibley, Utah. The exhibit celebrates local heritage and craftsmanship, drawing visitors to experience a preserved piece of community history during the holiday season.

Brigham City’s Christmas Village adds a historic twist to its holiday festivities. The annual seasonal event incorporates local heritage by showcasing historic buildings, artifacts, and stories that celebrate the city’s past alongside traditional holiday attractions, blending community tradition with preservation-focused storytelling for residents and visitors to enjoy.

St. George is moving forward with a plan to nominate its historic downtown as a National Register of Historic Places district, which could offer tax incentives to property owners who restore historic homes and commercial buildings. The proposal, developed by the St. George Historic Preservation Commission and supported by the Utah State Historic Preservation Office, aims to help preserve the city’s pioneer-era architecture and community identity amid rapid growth.

Kaysville city leaders are weighing long-term infrastructure needs — including a new fire station, upgrades to the city’s operations center, and the future of a vacant former library building — against concerns about tax impacts on residents. Council members discussed timing bond proposals, funding options, and the need for public outreach as they plan how best to address growing service demands while balancing costs and community priorities.

Utah officials launch emergency efforts to save a vandalized 1,000-year-old pictograph in American Fork Canyon. The rock art, from the Fremont culture, was defaced with paint pens and lipstick this summer — prompting the state to bring in a world-renowned conservator to assess damage and try to restore the site. The incident underscores the cultural and historical significance of such archaeological sites and the urgent need to protect them for future generations.

The historic Centennial House at the top of Park City’s Main Street has entered its reconstruction phase after more than two decades of vacancy and structural decline. Crews are now deconstructing the building and salvaging historic materials as part of a city-approved plan to rebuild it on its original footprint. The 18-month project will cause traffic impacts on upper Main Street due to the tight construction zone. Once complete, the restored home will retain its historic character while incorporating modern systems and safety improvements.

The article features a photo gallery that compares historic images of St. George with present-day views, highlighting how much the city has changed over the decades. Many old buildings are gone or have been transformed, but the comparison offers a nostalgic glimpse of the city’s past and preserves memories of what the community once looked like.

The Park Record argues that major changes are needed in Park City, Utah — from relocating City Hall, redesigning Main Street into a pedestrian-friendly historic promenade, to tightening up short-term-rental regulations and reshaping housing and transit planning — to keep community character intact and make the town more livable for residents again.

Salt Lake City’s Look Look Tattoo has opened the city’s only tattoo museum, preserving decades of Utah tattoo history. The collection—featuring vintage flash art, early equipment, photos, letters, and memorabilia—documents a largely undocumented part of the state’s cultural heritage. As the shop moves into a larger Central 9th space, the expanded museum will showcase even more artifacts, ensuring the stories of Utah’s early tattoo artists are preserved and shared with the public.

Seven life-sized snow-globe installations created by Utah artists now line Historic Main Street as part of the annual Snow Globe Art Stroll. The globes — all based on the “Winter Wonderland” theme — offer interactive touches like hidden snowflakes to discover, QR codes with artist info, and maps showing their locations.

Three historic structures on Brigham City’s Main Street (between Forest Street and 100 South) received up to $50,000 each to rehabilitate their interiors for commercial and residential use, part of a statewide effort to revitalize downtowns while preserving heritage architecture.

Thanks to a series of redevelopment grants, previously vacant buildings along Commercial Street in Morgan, Utah, have been rehabilitated and repurposed — turning a quiet, underused downtown corridor into a lively main street with new businesses and renewed activity. Part of the revitalization includes a holiday-themed “Christmas on Commercial Street” event: local shops host decorated Christmas trees that will be auctioned off, with proceeds helping families in need across the community.

Historic Park City transforms into a winter wonderland in December with holiday decorations, art installations, and community events. Main Street is adorned with life-sized snow globes, festive window displays, and lights, and the Historic Park City Alliance has organized a month-long celebration including art strolls, local shopping nights, live performances, and family-friendly activities to bring people together and highlight the town’s historic charm.

The Park Record argues that major changes are needed in Park City, Utah — from relocating City Hall, redesigning Main Street into a pedestrian-friendly historic promenade, to tightening up short-term-rental regulations and reshaping housing and transit planning — to keep community character intact and make the town more livable for residents again.

WWII-era buildings are returning home to Historic Wendover Airfield
Two wooden buildings — originally part of Wendover Air Force Base during World War II — have been donated by W.W. Clyde Company and transported back to Wendover after decades in Springville. Once there, they’ll become part of the airfield museum’s preservation efforts, helping keep alive the history of Utah’s significant wartime past.

A historic Denver & Rio Grande Western locomotive has returned to Utah after years in South Dakota, arriving at Ogden’s Union Station for preservation and potential restoration. The engine — D&RGW No. 133, a 1965 EMD switcher — is now on loan to the Utah State Railroad Museum, where crews plan to restore its original appearance and evaluate whether it can eventually operate again. Its return marks a significant step in preserving Utah’s rail heritage, bringing home one of the region’s longtime working locomotives for public education and future display.

Two WWII-era buildings have been returned to Historic Wendover Airfield after nearly 75 years — thanks to Clyde Companies sending them back from their Springville yard. The framed structures, originally part of the WWII base, now preserved as a museum complex, were transported across the west desert and will be preserved at Wendover.

The Utah State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) has awarded approximately $250,000 in its Round 2 “Rural Revive & Reside” grants, supporting historic building rehabilitations across five communities in Utah. These grants target underused or vacant historic downtown properties—like the 1892 Ericksen’s Meat and Grocery in Mount Pleasant, the 1914 Knudson Brothers’ Building in Brigham City, and the early 1900s North Sanpete Bank Building—and help convert them into mixed-use spaces with business frontage and housing units.

In Logan’s Island neighborhood, crews have started cutting down 17 towering ash trees — many over 100 years old — to make way for a critical waterline project along Canyon Road. Residents, who forwarded a petition with nearly 5,000 signatures, held a vigil to honor the trees they say gave the street its “fairytale” character. Project leaders say the route was chosen as the only viable option due to utility constraints, requiring the removals despite community backlash.

The iconic Roof Restaurant, housed in the historic Joseph Smith Memorial Building in downtown Salt Lake City, has reopened after a five-year closure for extensive seismic upgrades and restoration. The project preserved the building’s legacy as a dining landmark while modernizing its infrastructure, including consolidating two dining spaces into one and expanding capacity, including private rooms and a broader lunch service.

The Lehi Historical Society completed its 2025 slate of nine new historical markers—covering sites such as the Thomas R. Cutler Mansion, Jordan River Bridge, the Maryland Wanlass Hutchings home, and the 1983 flood site—to bring stories of community heritage into the public realm. Each bronze marker presents a small history lesson and will soon include a QR code linking to deeper content, encouraging residents and visitors to explore Lehi’s past through walking or biking tours.

The historic 87-year-old building at Tracy Aviary in Salt Lake City is slated for relocation to make way for a new year-round bird-show pavilion. The move aims to preserve the original structure — one of the aviary’s early builds — while allowing modern upgrades and expanded visitor experiences within the venue’s heritage setting.

The nonprofit Salt Lake Film Society has filed preliminary renovation plans for the nearly 100-year-old Tower Theatre (opened in 1928) in the 9th & 9th neighborhood, including restoring its original facade towers, preserving the main auditorium, and adding modern screening rooms and amenities. The project is still in a fundraising and design phase, with major renovations expected to wrap up later this decade.

A proposed seven-story, 113-unit apartment complex has been approved by the Salt Lake City Historic Landmarks Commission to wrap around the historic B’nai Israel Temple (built 1891) in downtown Salt Lake City. The project includes major conditions to protect the synagogue’s integrity—including maintaining its independence, preserving views, and ensuring any adjacent landscaping or development meets historic-sensitive design standards. The synagogue, one of the city’s oldest religious structures, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and plays a key role in Utah’s Jewish community's heritage. The approved project represents both an opportunity and a challenge: it could bring new investment to the area while testing how modern development can coexist with significant historic buildings.

The Tower Theatre — a 1928 movie house and one of Salt Lake City’s oldest film venues — has been closed for five years and is now entering an ambitious renovation phase. The nonprofit operator, the Salt Lake Film Society, submitted preliminary design drawings that aim to preserve its original main auditorium, restore parts of the castle-like facade, and introduce new features like multiple smaller screening rooms (micro-cinemas), a second-floor event space, a basement speakeasy, and an elevator for accessibility. Notable preservation efforts include re-revealing the building’s original masonry tower hidden beneath 1950s-era terracotta tile, digitally recreating a missing “west tower” for nighttime projection, and rebuilding the marquee to honor the theater’s historic character rather than mask it behind contemporary design.

In downtown Salt Lake City, the Utah Japantown Advocates are hosting a free poetry reading and workshop with multilingual poet Sawako Nakayasu on November 13 at the Salt Lake Buddhist Temple. The event ties into efforts to preserve the historic Japantown district—once home to a thriving Japanese-American community—and to deepen awareness of how cultural heritage remains alive amid change.

The 5-acre Lincoln Street campus of Rowland Hall—Utah’s oldest school, founded in 1867—is now on the market in Salt Lake City’s 9th & 9th neighborhood. The property, including a 1921 school building, is expected to attract developer interest, and the seller is open to a full sale or a development joint venture that respects the site’s historic character. Neighbors and preservation advocates strongly favor adaptive reuse—townhomes or renovations over high-rise apartments—to retain the architectural charm that makes the site special.

Rowland Hall—Utah’s oldest school—has placed its 1921 Lincoln Street campus near the 9th & 9th neighborhood in Salt Lake City on the market, unlocking approximately five acres for redevelopment. The seller is open to options that include preserving and renovating the existing historic building, or larger redevelopment such as townhomes, with concerns centered on maintaining the site’s historic character while allowing new uses.

The Japanese Church of Christ in downtown Salt Lake City uncovered a time capsule sealed in 1924, revealing artifacts that reflect the once-vibrant Japantown community. Items found include hand-sewn flags, bilingual newspapers (English and Japanese), Bibles, and the church’s articles of incorporation. The building is one of only two remaining structures from Utah’s historic Japantown, a neighborhood that once comprised about 90 Japanese-owned businesses but largely vanished amid urban redevelopment. Church leaders say the capsule underscores the importance of preserving this cultural legacy as downtown redevelopment presses in.

Japantown, Salt Lake City — once a vibrant Japanese-American neighborhood — is getting renewed attention from Salt Lake City officials with a roughly $11 million redesign plan focused on 100 South between 200 West and 300 West. Key elements include aligning cherry trees, installing specialty manhole covers and unique street lights with Japanese-inspired designs, reconfiguring sidewalks to support festivals like Nihon Matsuri and Obon, and installing a public mural that marks the area's cultural identity. City leaders emphasized the importance of acting now rather than waiting, stating they want tangible signs of commitment to Japantown’s future and to ensure the area's heritage is not lost amid broader downtown redevelopment.

Utah’s State Historic Preservation Office joined federal lawmakers in calling for updates to Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act, saying the current law’s vague language has created a “maze without a map” that delays infrastructure while offering limited protection to historic properties. The proposed changes aim to make the review process more “clear, reasonable and predictable,” according to Utah’s historic preservation officer Chris Merritt, while still safeguarding heritage sites.

Restoration work is advancing on Utah’s historic dance-hall landmark, the Elite Hall (built 1917), as a new addition on its east side nears readiness. The project aims to preserve the building’s original charm—including its rare spring-loaded dance floor—while expanding its community use.

In downtown Salt Lake City, the Japanese Church of Christ revealed the contents of a cast-iron time capsule sealed in its cornerstone 101 years ago. Inside were Bibles, Japanese and American flags, 1924-dated newspapers, and the church’s incorporation papers—artifacts that reflect the faith and resilience of Utah’s Japanese-American community. The building itself stands as one of the last remaining structures from the city’s historic Japantown and now faces mounting redevelopment pressures. The discovery underscores the urgent need to preserve cultural and architectural landmarks rooted in minority heritage.

A cast-iron time capsule sealed in the cornerstone of the Japanese Church of Christ 101 years earlier was opened in October 2025. Inside the watertight box were poignant artifacts: Bibles donated in 1906 and 1924, Japanese and American flags, newspapers from both Japan and the U.S. dated November 1924, and the church’s original articles of incorporation. The church sits near what was once Utah’s bustling Japantown and is one of the only remaining structures from that era in downtown Salt Lake City. The capsule’s discovery comes as the building faces preservation pressures amid nearby new development.

The steam locomotive Denver & Rio Grande Western No. 223—a rare narrow-gauge engine built in 1881—has been transferred from Ogden Union Station to the 223 Locomotive Foundation in Colorado, where it will undergo full operational restoration after over 30 years on static display in Ogden. The move marks a milestone in railroad preservation for Utah: the engine, one of only three surviving C-16 narrow-gauge locomotives, will once again roll under steam, preserving the heritage of the narrow-gauge era and restoring a key artifact of the Rocky Mountain railway legacy.

Episcopal Church of the Good Shepherd in Ogden has been awarded a $100,000 grant from the National Trust for Historic Preservation’s National Fund for Sacred Places, one of only 30 faith-based sites nationwide to receive the honor this year. The funds will support restoration of the nearly 150-year-old church’s exterior masonry, windows, doors, and steeple—ensuring this landmark remains a vibrant part of the community rather than succumbing to aging and neglect.

The Episcopal Church of the Good Shepherd in Ogden was awarded a $100,000 grant from the National Trust for Historic Preservation’s National Fund for Sacred Places—one of only 30 faith-based sites nationwide selected this year. The funds will be used to preserve the church’s architecture, including exterior masonry, windows and doors, and the steeple/bell tower, safeguarding the nearly 150-year-old landmark for future generations.

The Utah State Historic Preservation Office’s cemetery program, led by Amy Barry, is actively restoring historic headstones across the state. The program has cleaned, leveled, and repaired hundreds of gravestones—including an 1855 stone for Territorial Supreme Court judge Leonidas Shaver—with the aim of preserving the personal stories and heritage each marker represents.

The Arts & Historic District Alliance of St. George — a coalition of artists, business owners, cultural organizations and community leaders in downtown St. George — is working to merge historic preservation with creative placemaking.

Their mission: to revitalize the historic corridor by celebrating its architectural past while activating it with art, music, murals, events and creative enterprises. Rather than preserving history as static, the alliance is treating heritage buildings and spaces as dynamic settings for community culture and commerce.

Lehi recently dedicated a historical marker celebrating a home with exceptional architecture—one that stands out in form, detail, and craftsmanship. The marker highlights the house’s style, its notable builder or architect, and its place in the community’s architectural heritage. By publicly recognizing the house, the city affirms its commitment to preserving architectural treasures and raising awareness of local historic character.

Lehi recently dedicated a historical marker celebrating a home with exceptional architecture—one that stands out in form, detail, and craftsmanship. The marker highlights the house’s style, its notable builder or architect, and its place in the community’s architectural heritage.

By publicly recognizing the house, the city affirms its commitment to preserving architectural treasures and raising awareness of local historic character.

Salt Lake City’s City Council unanimously approved landmark status for two Neoclassical apartment buildings—Sampson Flats and Altadena Apartments—built in 1906. Already on the National Register, the new local designation gives them stronger protections against demolition or incompatible alterations amid growing downtown development pressures.

The Springville City Council has approved buying the former seminary building at 415 S. 200 E for $400,000, securing a historic easement that protects its exterior design. The structure, built in 1928 and part of the original high school campus, is considered architecturally significant—it’s by Claude Ashworth, who also designed nearby campus buildings. During the due-diligence period, the city will inspect the interior systems (electrical, plumbing, structural) and ensure any ADA upgrades preserve the building’s historic character.

Salt Lake City’s City Council has unanimously approved local landmark status for the Sampson Flats and Altadena Apartments, both constructed in 1906. While these buildings have been on the National Register since 2010, the new local designation offers stronger protections—especially important as development pressure grows in the Central City neighborhood.

Residents of the 17-unit complex rallied together, regardless of background or belief, to support the designation. The council also enacted rules that help safeguard neighboring historic structures from overly tall development next door.

Salt Lake City’s City Council unanimously designated the Sampson Flats and Altadena Apartments—built in 1906—as local historic landmarks. These Neoclassical-style walk-ups house 17 residential units and sit near 300 South and 300 East in the Central City neighborhood.

Once only on the National Register (since 2010) without protection, the new local landmark designation provides these buildings with much-needed protection against incompatible development, especially as downtown growth pressures intensify. Residents had rallied to preserve them amid proposed rezoning, and the council’s vote carries weight by allowing guidelines to curb nearby high-rise encroachment.

After nearly 15 years, The Leonardo Museum has permanently closed due to failing infrastructure in its 61-year-old city-owned building. The museum, known for blending science, art, and innovation, cited irreparable issues with elevators, escalators, and plumbing. Salt Lake City officials announced the space will transition to administrative offices while maintaining a cultural presence on the ground floor.

Opened in 2011 after years of fundraising and delays, The Leonardo hosted exhibits exploring creativity and technology — from Ute Mountain Ute artwork to interactive science installations. Though its closure marks the end of a creative era for downtown Salt Lake, the museum’s legacy in sparking curiosity and preservation of ideas will endure.

St. George city officials are moving forward with a plan to nominate the city’s downtown area for the National Register of Historic Places. If approved, about 650 qualifying properties could receive state and federal tax credits of up to 40% for restoring historic structures to their original form.

The effort, supported by the St. George Historic Preservation Commission and the Utah State Historic Preservation Office, aims to protect the city’s architectural heritage while offering financial incentives for preservation. Officials emphasize that participation is voluntary and won’t affect property taxes.

Smithfield’s Historic Preservation Commission is restoring the 1883 Douglas General Mercantile, the town’s oldest surviving commercial building, into a museum. Built by Scottish immigrant William M. Douglas, the store once supplied pioneer families, housed community dances, and even served as a movie hall. Later used as the American Legion Hall, it was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1982. Volunteers and contractors have been working to restore the stone-and-brick building inside and out, uncovering historic photos and artifacts along the way. When finished, the museum will showcase Smithfield’s pioneer heritage, turning the mercantile into a space for locals and visitors to connect with the town’s past.

The Emery Town Historic Church continues its restoration thanks to a recent $5,000 donation from Rocky Mountain Power. Over the past few years, grants and community support have funded major improvements, including stabilizing the foundation with helical piers, installing new HVAC, plumbing, and electrical systems, leveling floors, and adding a new roof. The church has also been resheeted, repainted its original milk-white color, and now has framed kitchen and bathroom spaces. Window and trim work is currently underway, with the Emery Town Heritage Council leading efforts to preserve this landmark for future generations.

The Murray Theater, first opened in 1938 and once home to premieres of The Wizard of Oz and Gone with the Wind, has been restored and reopened after years of disrepair. Closed since 2017, the Art Deco landmark underwent a multimillion-dollar renovation funded by Salt Lake County and completed with historic details inspired by old photos and community memories. Crews restored the marquee, lobby, and ceiling while modernizing the stage and seating, blending vintage character with new performance capabilities.

Now featuring 333 seats, an orchestral lift, and updated backstage spaces, the theater will host concerts, films, and community events. Its revival preserves a beloved piece of Murray’s cultural heritage, ensuring the theater once again serves as a gathering place for arts and entertainment.

Salt Lake County has finalized plans for a sweeping $949M–$1.4B renovation of three downtown cultural landmarks: Abravanel Hall, the Utah Museum of Contemporary Art (UMOCA), and the Salt Palace Convention Center. Work will begin with planning in 2025, design and bidding through 2026, and demolition starting February 2027. Full construction is expected from late 2028 through 2030.

Preservation is central to the project. Plans call for reusing brick and original elements of Abravanel Hall while upgrading backstage and performer spaces. UMOCA will be rebuilt with seven galleries, a 150-seat auditorium, artist studios, and education areas, maintaining professional art standards while reducing its overall footprint. The Salt Palace will see expanded ballrooms and modernized support spaces.

Architects MHTN, Sparano + Mooney, Allied Works, and Populous will lead the redesign, with renderings expected by late 2026. County leaders emphasize that the renovations will blend modernization with preservation, ensuring these cultural landmarks remain anchors of Salt Lake City’s civic and historic fabric.

Friends of Ski Mountain Mining History is racing to stabilize Park City’s historic mines, where decades of neglect threaten both safety and heritage. Recent projects include sealing the Thaynes Mine shaft—once home to the short-lived “Skier Subway”—and repairing the Silver King Coalition Mine. After the Daly West Mine collapse in 2015, the urgency of preservation became clear.

With support from Utah’s Abandoned Mine Reclamation Program, engineers are closing dangerous shafts using specialized, water-safe materials to protect both structures and Park City’s drinking supply. Above ground, crews are restoring fragile buildings, replacing vandalized features, and adding security. The long-term goal is to preserve these landmarks not just as relics, but as public heritage sites, opening them to guided tours that tell the story of Park City’s mining past and the effort to save it.

In Delta, Utah, the Topaz Museum continues its mission to preserve the history of the Topaz Internment Camp, where thousands of Japanese Americans were unjustly incarcerated during World War II. The camp, which opened in 1942, once held families uprooted from California and other states under the guise of “national security.”

The museum began in 1982, when teacher Jane Beckwith assigned her students to interview locals connected to Topaz. Community members shared stories, artifacts, and personal items, sparking a grassroots effort that grew into a multi-million-dollar project. After decades of fundraising and advocacy, the 8,000-square-foot museum opened in 2017, with exhibits highlighting the loss of civil rights and the resilience of those who lived there.

Through ongoing preservation work, the Topaz Museum ensures that this difficult chapter of history is remembered, honoring those who endured it and educating future generations about the importance of protecting civil liberties.

The missing “Centennial” sign from the historic Centennial House has been quietly returned, just days after its theft sparked community concern. PJ Builders, leading the home’s restoration, thanked locals for helping recover the piece of Park City history.

The sign will once again be incorporated into the Centennial House reconstruction, adding yet another chapter to the building’s storied past. “The Centennial Building will keep her secrets, and so will we,” the builders noted, emphasizing the importance of preserving original features in the project.

PARK CITY — The iconic “The Centennial” sign has been stolen from the historic Centennial House on Main Street during reconstruction. The sign, once above the second-story balcony, was set to be restored and incorporated into the home’s renovation.

“This isn’t just wood and paint — it’s part of Park City’s history,” said Pete Olson of PJ Builders, who is overseeing the restoration of the 1907 home. He urged the community to help return the missing artifact so it can remain part of the building’s legacy.

PARK CITY — The iconic “Centennial” sign has been stolen from the historic Centennial House on Main Street, just months after redevelopment plans were approved. Built in the early 1900s as a boarding house, the structure is now slated for careful deconstruction and restoration.

PJ Builders, leading the project, said the theft is “not just a loss to the new homeowners, but to the entire Park City community.” The sign had hung above the entrance for more than 30 years and was set to be incorporated into the home’s restoration. Crews and local preservationists are asking for its safe return, calling the piece “too important to be lost.”

For more than 50 years, Holladay Bank & Trust has been a community cornerstone, founded in 1974 by Ronald N. Spratling Jr. to serve neighbors overlooked by larger institutions. Operating first out of a trailer before moving into its mid-century modern headquarters, the bank became known for its personal service, Saturday hours, and role in strengthening Holladay’s small-town identity.

This summer, the one-branch bank entered a new chapter as it was acquired by Redemption Holding Co., becoming the West’s first Black-owned bank. Under the continued leadership of Spratling’s daughter, Katie, the institution’s legacy of community service and preservation of local trust endures. Former Preservation Utah director David Amott reflected that visits to the bank remain part of the region’s living history — proof that small places can have lasting impact.

Six historic homes built between 1869 and 1914 will open for the public during the Cache Valley Historic Home Tour on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The self-guided tour, which includes homes in Logan and Wellsville, highlights a range of styles from Queen Anne to Craftsman bungalows and showcases original details like gingerbread woodwork, cast iron fireplaces, and locally quarried stone. A bonus stop includes the recently restored 1911 Federal Building in Logan, now home to the Cache DUP Museum.

Organized by the Cache Valley Historical Society and Visitors Bureau, the event not only celebrates the region’s architectural heritage but also funds preservation-related initiatives, including a scholarship for Utah State University students researching local history and transportation for school children to visit the American West Heritage Center. Tickets are $15 and available at each home the day of the tour.

As the Monroe Canyon Fire nears full containment after burning over 73,000 acres, crews are beginning post-fire recovery efforts. Among these steps is the removal of heat-resistant shielding that was draped over historic wooden buildings like the Koosharem Guard Station to protect them from flames. The U.S. Forest Service confirmed that these preservation measures were successful, ensuring the survival of important cultural landmarks in Fishlake National Forest. With evacuations lifted in several areas and wildlife already returning, officials emphasized that safeguarding these historic sites was as vital as restoring the landscape, allowing future generations to continue experiencing the region’s heritage.

The legendary Mormon Meteor III, a 1937 land-speed racer built for Ab Jenkins, will soon find a permanent home at the new Museum of Utah, opening June 2026 on the Capitol grounds. Famous for setting endurance records on the Bonneville Salt Flats, the car is credited with putting Utah on the map as a hub for speed racing. It will headline the museum’s “Inspiring Utah” gallery alongside artifacts like Orson Pratt’s telescope, materials from the Topaz Internment Camp, and memorabilia from the 2002 Winter Olympics. The museum, supported by donations including $10 million from Rio Tinto Kennecott, aims to preserve and share Utah’s cultural and historic legacy for future generations.

Corner Station Deli & Co-Op in Fairview has been awarded a $50,000 grant from the National Trust for Historic Preservation’s Backing Historic Small Restaurants program, the only Utah recipient this year. Housed in a century-old former service station, the deli plans to use the funds for facade improvements to maintain its historic character while continuing to serve as a community hub. Owners Jason and Sarah Mardell see the project as part of revitalizing Main Street and preserving Fairview’s heritage, ensuring the landmark remains a gathering place for food, art, and local business for years to come.

Fairview’s Corner Station Deli, housed in a 1920s service station that has served many roles over the past century, has been awarded a $50,000 grant from the National Trust for Historic Preservation. Owners Sarah and Jason Mardell plan to use the funds to restore the building’s exterior and signage, ensuring its quirky historic charm endures. Once a blacksmith shop, storage space, and gift store, the building now thrives as a family-run deli beloved by locals—including Fairview’s mayor—and visitors alike. For the Mardells, preserving the structure is as important as serving sandwiches: “We see a lot of buildings crumble or disappear. This one has history, and we’d like to keep it that way.”

Park City will open a new 7.8-mile Historic Mine Route in 2026, designed to connect trails and landmarks from the city’s silver mining past. Starting at the Park City Museum, the loop will guide hikers and bikers past sites like the Silver King Coalition Mine and Empire Canyon’s Judge Mine office, using interpretive signs and a GPS-enabled app with stories and historic photos. Funded through multiple grants, the project is led by Friends of Ski Mountain Mining History and will officially debut on Miners Day 2026, blending recreation with preservation of Park City’s mining legacy.

Spring City citizens and preservation groups have filed a lawsuit against the City Council, arguing new projects and density plans threaten the town’s National Register status and pioneer heritage. Known for its 19th-century homes and chapel, the community fears unchecked growth will erase its historic character. Residents call it a fight for “the soul of Spring City.”

After more than 40 years, Snowland in Fairview Canyon is reopening under the non-profit Snowland Foundation, preserving a beloved community slope first opened in 1967. Backed by a $1 million state grant and over $200,000 in donations, the project restored historic features like the base cabin and created new improvements, including expanded parking and free lift access for two seasons.

The National Park Service (NPS) was created 109 years ago, when President Woodrow Wilson signed the Organic Act of 1916, establishing a unified system to protect historic sites, landscapes, and wildlife. Before this act, parks like Yellowstone (1872) were managed piecemeal by superintendents and Army troops who fought to guard them from poachers and loggers.

By the early 1900s, more national parks and monuments were designated, including Utah’s Natural Bridges National Monument (1908), followed by Hovenweep (1923), Arches (1929), and Canyonlands (1964). Together, these sites preserved both natural wonders and cultural heritage.

Today, the NPS manages more than 430 parks and historic places, welcoming 332 million visitors in 2024. Yet funding challenges—like the recent loss of over $260 million in conservation and staffing resources—threaten the ability to sustain this preservation mission into the future.

The Salt Lake Plaza Hotel, built in the early 1970s, will close November 1 and be demolished soon after, according to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Rising maintenance costs were cited as the reason for closure. Initially, the site will serve as parking during the Salt Lake Temple open house in 2027, with long-term plans still undecided. While the demolition will include recycling materials where possible, the loss of this downtown landmark underscores the growing challenges of preserving mid-century modern structures in Utah.

The Provo Community Congregational United Church of Christ, a 130-year-old landmark downtown, has received a matching grant through Provo City’s Certified Local Government program to support its Cornerstone Restoration Project. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2022, the church blends Spanish Colonial Revival and mid-century modern styles and serves as both a place of worship and a community hub. The grant will help repair deteriorating stucco, stabilize historic facades, and expand the site into a center for arts, music, education, and service. To unlock the funds, the church is launching a community campaign to raise the matching amount needed for this critical preservation effort.

The century-old Newhouse Hotel, a landmark in Helper’s historic district, has unveiled the Newhouse Hotel Saloon & Gallery during the Helper Arts Festival weekend. Fully restored and reopened in September 2024, the building now offers nine guest rooms and a vibrant gallery space showcasing regional artists, including David Richey Johnsen, Doug Barlow, and Jason Huntzinger. The restoration, led by owner Gary DeVincent with contributions from local craftsmen, preserves the building’s historic character while creating a modern community gathering space. The gallery will host exhibitions, workshops, and private events, connecting visitors with Helper’s cultural and artistic heritage.

A devastating Main Street fire destroyed four historic Salt Lake City businesses and caused $5 million in damage. Fire crews worked through the night, using drones for critical aerial views to target hotspots and prevent further loss. Division Chief Bob Silverthorne noted the risks posed by the age and materials of the century-old buildings, which added both challenges and hazards. While thankful there were no civilian casualties, he acknowledged the loss of significant historic architecture. He said the event will serve as a learning experience for future efforts to protect such structures.

A devastating fire Monday night destroyed three historic downtown Salt Lake City bars—White Horse, Whiskey Street, and London Belle—along with the Mexican restaurant Los Tapatios, all housed in 1920s-era buildings central to the city’s nightlife. The Downtown Alliance said the property owners intend to rebuild, preserving the area’s historic character. Three firefighters suffered minor injuries while battling the blaze. City leaders pledged economic and worker support to help affected businesses and employees recover.

A massive fire on Salt Lake City’s historic Main Street caused an estimated $5 million in damage, injuring three firefighters but sparing all workers and patrons. The blaze began in the kitchen of London Belle and quickly spread through hidden voids in the century-old structures, which also housed Eva’s, White Horse, Los Tapatios, and Whiskey Street. Fire crews used drones to locate hotspots, while officials noted the added hazards from aged building materials. Mayor Erin Mendenhall called the businesses “the heart of downtown” and pledged city support for rebuilding and preserving the historic streetscape.

The massive fire that destroyed Los Tapatios Taco Grill, White Horse, Whiskey Street, and London Belle consumed buildings over a century old, dating to the 1920s. Preservation Utah Executive Director Brandy Strand noted these structures were central to downtown’s history, once part of the early 1900s “Whiskey Street” district and built with materials that can’t be replicated. Beyond their architecture, these buildings helped define the culture of downtown Salt Lake City, hosting vibrant nightlife and programs like Open Streets. Strand and community members hope rebuilding efforts preserve the charm and history that made this block a beloved gathering place.