The Smith’s Ballpark Redevelopment: What It Means for Homeowners, Buyers, and Investors in SLC

If you live near the Ballpark neighborhood—or you’ve driven by 1300 South recently—you’ve probably noticed some big changes. After years of anticipation, Salt Lake City has officially unveiled preliminary plans to redevelop the 15-acre Smith’s Ballpark site, and the transformation is going to be a game-changer for the area.

This isn’t just another real estate development, it’s a full community reimagining. And whether you're a homeowner in the neighborhood, a buyer looking for the next up-and-coming spot, or a seller trying to position your home competitively, this is a moment worth paying attention to. Plus, you still have time to make an impact and give your feedback (see below).

What’s Actually Happening at the Ballpark Site?

The redevelopment plan includes:

• New housing (mix of 400+ multifamily housing units)

• Retail and dining spaces

• A new public library

• A fire station

• A major green space/park

• Pedestrian-friendly design focused on walkability and community

The project is part of a broader push by the city to revitalize neighborhoods near downtown while addressing housing affordability and livability.

Salt Lake City is aiming for a "15-minute neighborhood" model, where everything you need (groceries, parks, transit, coffee shops, and schools) is within a short walk. That makes this area particularly attractive for young professionals, families, and long-term residents alike.

What This Means for Local Home Values

Whenever a major redevelopment like this comes into play, the surrounding real estate market tends to follow with increased demand and rising values. In similar projects across the U.S., home values within a walkable radius of mixed-use developments often rise faster than the broader metro average.

What to expect:

• Increased interest from buyers looking to be near new amenities

• Pressure on older or under-maintained properties to compete with new inventory

• Improved rental potential as new restaurants, trails, and services attract younger renters

• A stronger long-term equity play for current homeowners

If you’ve owned in the Ballpark District for a while, this could be a great time to assess your home’s market value, even if you’re not quite ready to sell. And if you’re a buyer, now is the time to look while prices are still relatively reasonable.

Opportunities for Buyers

Many buyers are priced out of downtown or Sugarhouse - but Ballpark is shaping up to be the perfect middle ground: close to the city center, yet still affordable (for now).

As construction begins and amenities start opening, we could see competition heat up quickly. First-time buyers and investors should keep an eye on:

• New construction options with modern finishes and energy-efficient design

• Townhomes or condos that offer a lower price point

• Proximity to TRAX stations and freeway access for easy commuting

 How Sellers and Agents Should Think About This

For sellers, especially in older homes nearby, now is the time to:

• Highlight proximity to the redevelopment in your listing descriptions

• Stage your home to appeal to younger buyers who are moving into the area

• Consider updates or small renovations to compete with newer inventory

If you’re listing in the next 12–18 months, you’ll likely benefit from a wave of increased attention as the project gets underway.

The Bottom Line

The Smith’s Ballpark redevelopment is more than a facelift for a forgotten site, it’s a full neighborhood revival. And that means new energy, new businesses, new residents, and yes, new real estate opportunities.

Whether you're buying, selling, or just curious about what your home could be worth in this evolving market, now is a smart time to get informed.

Want to know how this project could affect your home value - or your next move? Let’s chat. I’m always happy to run the numbers and help you explore your options.

And if you want to get involved in the public comment period for the ballpark redesign, you have until July 15th to do so online, or in person comments will be collected at a neighborhood Q&A held on July 10, from 6-7:30 p.m., on the west side of Smith’s Ballpark.