Salt Lake County Council approves Salt Palace redevelopment ahead of 2034 Olympic Games

In a recent Salt Lake County Council meeting, officials discussed significant redevelopment plans for the Salt Palace Convention Center, aimed at enhancing the county's appeal as a premier destination for conventions and events. The meeting, held on April 29, 2025, highlighted the importance of these renovations in preparation for the upcoming 2034 Olympic Games, where Salt Lake City will host the media center.

The proposed redevelopment includes the addition of a second ballroom, which would allow the Salt Palace to host multiple conventions simultaneously. Currently, the facility can only accommodate one ballroom event at a time, limiting its capacity and potential revenue. The mayor emphasized that without continued investment in the Salt Palace, the county risks falling behind competing cities like Austin, which are also upgrading their convention facilities.

The council assured that the Salt Palace would remain operational during the renovation process, with a strategic phased approach to minimize disruption for ongoing events. The team is already in discussions with major event organizers to creatively manage any impacts during construction.

Next steps involve issuing a Request for Proposals (RFP) to select an architectural firm for the project. Community engagement will be a priority, with plans for public hearings and discussions to gather input from stakeholders, including local cultural organizations and community leaders.

The financial aspects of the redevelopment were also addressed, with projections indicating that the Salt Palace renovations could generate significant revenue over the next 30 years. The anticipated cash flows from the Smith Entertainment Group (SEG) are estimated at nearly $140 million, with a present value of approximately $55 million, deemed fair market value for the property.

As the council moves forward with these plans, they aim to ensure that the redevelopment not only meets the needs of the county but also enhances the overall experience for residents and visitors alike. The discussions reflect a commitment to maintaining Salt Lake County's status as a competitive player in the convention and tourism industry, especially in light of the upcoming Olympic Games.