Salt Lake City launches Reconnecting Communities project to bridge historic east-west divide

A new initiative aimed at bridging the east-west divide in Salt Lake City is set to kick off in January, thanks to a federal grant from the Reconnecting Communities program. This program, which originated under the Obama administration and gained traction under President Biden, focuses on addressing the negative impacts of transportation infrastructure on communities, particularly those historically marginalized.

The grant, totaling $225,000, will fund a two-year project centered on community engagement and co-creation. The goal is to involve local residents in defining the problems caused by the divide and brainstorming potential solutions. This could range from innovative infrastructure designs, such as burying freeways or creating community centers, to advocacy programs aimed at fostering community cohesion.

During the Wasatch Choice Community Advisory Committee meeting on December 17, 2024, officials emphasized the importance of involving those directly affected by the divide. A Citizens Advisory Council will be established to ensure that community voices are heard throughout the planning process. This council will play a crucial role in shaping the project, from engagement strategies to the selection of designs.

The initiative also highlights the historical context of the divide, rooted in past urban planning decisions that disproportionately affected lower-income and minority communities. The project aims to rectify these past injustices by fostering trust and collaboration between residents and transportation agencies.

With an additional $90,000 allocated for artistic contributions, the project seeks to create a public-facing element that reflects community input and enhances local identity. The partnership between Salt Lake City, the Utah Transit Authority, and the U.S. Department of Transportation marks a significant step toward healing the physical and psychological rifts caused by decades of infrastructure development.

As the project gears up for its launch, community members are encouraged to participate in the discussions that will shape the future of their neighborhoods, ensuring that the solutions developed are both relevant and impactful.