Details unveiled for proposed agreement focused on new SLC sports, entertainment district

SALT LAKE CITY (KUTV) — Smith Entertainment Group and Salt Lake City Cooperation authorities unveiled details of their proposed Participation Agreement, which would serve as a stepping stone to create “a community-centered sports, entertainment, culture, and convention district downtown.”

The Agreement- slated for voting on July 9 – would create a Community Benefit Fund if passed by the City Council.

This fund would go towards several projects, including family-sized housing, a Japanese streetscape, and public art. SEG representatives said they would provide additional benefits such as college internships and workforce training.

The district would include a public safety/police substation and public gathering spaces.

The Agreement also proposed the Delta Center be the home arena for both the Jazz and Utah Hockey Club.

If passed, SEG would reportedly sign a binding lease agreement with Salt Lake County for several city blocks currently in use by the Salt Palace Convention Center.

“This proposed agreement is the product of tireless negotiations aiming to ensure the best opportunities for current and future Salt Lakers,” said Salt Lake City Council Chair Victoria Petro. “Our next few days will be spent in sober reflection as we prepare to vote on what is merely the first of many steps required to see this vision become a reality.”

The Agreement would be delivered to the Capital City Revitalization Committee if passed through Council. The Agreement would be returned to the Council for final approval to be determined by Dec. 31, 2024, if approved by the Committee.

“After the City Council’s final vote on the Participation Agreement, the City will also negotiate a development agreement with SEG, which will outline the design guidelines for the district and will negotiate a new lease for Delta Center for the hockey and basketball teams,” authorities stated.

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