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Block 1 redevelopment faces easement, UDOT access and design-code hurdles, staff says
Summary
RDA staff told board members that Lumen easements, UDOT access-management requirements and requested tweaks to the new form-based code are delaying Block 1; staff said developers continue permit work but lenders require cleared easements and UDOT could restrict on‑street parking.
RDA staff briefed the board on June 16 about three key constraints affecting the Block 1 redevelopment.
Staff member Chad told the board legacy easements held by Lumen must be released before the project can secure a clean plat acceptable to lenders; without that release lenders worry about third‑party easement holders asserting rights that could halt development. He said Lumen and the developer (Rockworth) are working through those releases but gave no firm timeline.
The project also requires approvals from the Utah Department of Transportation (UDOT) for State Street access. Chad said UDOT’s access‑management standards include sight‑distance triangles and other safety criteria that may prevent maintaining existing on‑street parking on State Street; while hundreds of off‑street spaces will be available behind downtown businesses, staff emphasized the city’s desire to preserve some on‑street parking to maintain a main‑street character and said staff will continue regional meetings to negotiate retention of some spaces.
Finally, Chad said the developer has requested a limited change to the form‑based code adopted last year because the code requires ground‑level, street‑facing units to have direct street access. The developer alleges that strict application across the entire planned building is impractical; staff stressed the request is limited, that the Planning Commission will review the amendment, and that the architecture review committee would retain discretion on any exceptions.
On tenant impacts, staff said Rockworth has purchased certain existing properties and current occupants are on month‑to‑month leases; staff could not confirm comprehensive relocation assistance and said landlord‑tenant arrangements have governed most notices so far.
Board members asked about potential lender arrangements, permitting, and the possibility of losing on‑street parking for future residents and visitors. Staff did not provide definitive resolutions and said several outcomes depend on third‑party agencies or the timing of easement releases.
