Sandy seeks public input on buying former Crescent View Middle School next to Crescent Park

Sandy city staff are asking residents whether the city should buy the former Crescent View Middle School property — roughly 17 acres and more than 128,000 square feet of building space next to Crescent Park — or allow the district to sell it to a private developer.

A staff member announcing the opportunity said Canyon School District received another offer from a developer but “decided to work with the city first,” creating a short window for local leaders and residents to weigh options.

“ We don't want to miss an opportunity, yet we don't want to act hastily, especially when it comes to your valued tax dollars,” the staff member said, urging the community to participate in public meetings and surveys planned over the coming weeks.

Why it matters: The site sits in a built-out neighborhood directly connected to Crescent Park, near the Porter-Rockwell Trail and adjacent to a TRAX line — factors that would shape feasible reuses and costs. City officials said conceptual options include converting the site to expanded park and recreation space, arts and cultural programming, a community center, and a permanent home for city services such as parks and recreation and the Sandy Arts Guild; another option would combine public amenities with housing development to reduce the net cost to taxpayers.

What the city says it will do: Staff described the current phase as informational. The city will present a range of options, estimated costs and concepts and solicit public feedback before any purchase decision. The staff member emphasized that “these are only conceptual scenarios. No decisions have been made.”

Limitations if sold privately: The staff member noted that if the school district sells the property to a private developer, the city’s ability to determine future use would be limited to existing zoning requirements.

Numbers and details provided in the announcement: the parcel includes about 17 acres of land and more than 128,000 square feet of building space; it is adjacent to Crescent Park and near the Porter-Rockwell Trail and a TRAX line. Canyon School District has at least one competing offer from a private developer but has prioritized working with the city first.

Next steps: City staff said they will share options, cost estimates and concept plans in public forums and through surveys over the coming weeks and encouraged residents to attend meetings and submit feedback. No formal vote or commitment to purchase was announced.