Sara Hiatt February 6, 2025
Draper, Utah, is about to become home to the nation's largest infill development project: The Point. This ambitious undertaking, sprawling across 600+ acres that was formerly the home to the Utah State Prison, promises a "new standard" of urban living, but also raises questions about housing affordability and accessibility. Here's a breakdown of what we learned from a recent presentation on this massive project:
A City Within a City:
The Point isn't just a development; it's envisioned as a self-contained community. Developers are selling a lifestyle, emphasizing walkability, community gathering spaces, and a vibrant mix of residential, retail, and commercial spaces.
Phase one, encompassing the first 100 acres, is already underway, with groundbreaking in December 2024 as the Porter Rockwell Boulevard makes its way to the community.
Vertical development is expected by mid-2025, which means we should start to see the first buildings completed sometime around 2027. The entire project is expected to take 20-25 years, with phase one aiming for completion before the 2034 Olympics arrive in Utah. This initial phase will be the most densely populated area of the entire development.
Connecting the Valley:
A key feature of The Point is its focus on connectivity with the surrounding communities. One way the community will do this is through an area of the development called the "river to range" area that aims to link the Bonneville Shoreline Trail, the Jordan River Trail, and the future Bangerter connection. This connection will create the longest trail system in the western US.
In addition to the trail system, the community will also host a "Central Green," akin to a smaller Central Park. This central open space will host community events, concerts, gathering space and more. The developers are even working to change local liquor laws to enhance the entertainment offerings surrounding the area.
Phase One Details:
No "for sale" properties: Phase one will consist entirely of rental units for residential purposes.
Residential: 3,600 units housing an estimated 10,000 residents.
Affordable Housing: 12.5% of units will be designated as affordable housing (60-80% AMI).
Promenade: The downtown area will feature retail storefronts with residential units above.
Event Center: A multi-use event center is being planned, aiming to seat 5000-7,000 people.
Height Restrictions: Buildings in phase one will most likely be a maximum of 10-15 stories to help with site lines for the surrounding communities.
Beyond Phase One:
Future Development: 500+ acres remain to be planned and developed.
Luxury Townhomes: Luxury townhomes are planned for the west side, potentially alongside a future school. These will most likely be offered “for sale” in order to help increasing infrastructure costs for the community.
Transportation: A new FrontRunner station with double tracking will offer 15-minute pickup routes. TRAX expansion to Adobe in Lehi is also planned. Road electrification is being considered. Air taxi implementation is anticipated.
Innovation: Convergence Hall will provide coworking spaces, incubator spaces, dorms for post-doc students, and potentially a seminar/fellowship location. “Innovation Alley” will cater to entrepreneurs with retail test storefronts and laboratory space.
Economy: Efforts are underway to attract Fortune 100 and 500 companies.
Iconic Feature: An artist call will be issued for an iconic feature on the site to help draw tourist appeal.
The Price of Progress:
The Point represents a significant investment – $2 billion for phase one alone – and signifies a major shift in the Utah landscape. In addition to investment costs, the land will remain owned by the State, offering a 99 year lease to the developers. While the project promises a vibrant, connected community, it's important to acknowledge that this is not Utah's answer to affordable housing. The land is expensive, and the development reflects that. The project will undoubtedly shape the future of Draper and the surrounding region, and its impact, both positive and negative, will be felt for generations to come.
If you’re interested in keeping up with the latest news by signing up for The Point newsletter. Also, keep an eye on Geneva Rock's plans for redevelopment of the gravel pit across the freeway, as this could also have implications for the surrounding area.
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