Salt Lake City Downtown on the Rise

Everything from commerce to the arts, two loops of free TRAX trains, lush promenades, a university boulevard and a "necklace of green" highlight the Salt Lake Chamber's ambitious 40-year project for Utah's capital.

"It's very forward thinking . . . and it allows for a lot of flexibility," said County Councilman Jeff Allen.

Salt Lake City Councilman Soren Simonsen called the chamber's ideas "fabulous" after listening to the presentation. It will be up to the council, he said, to implement policies that facilitate the downtown vision. And he hopes civic leaders find ways to involve youth in the process."

"The last time such a comprehensive downtown-revitalization blueprint was proffered was in 1962, when business leaders created the "Second Century Plan," said Bob Farrington, executive director of the Downtown Alliance."