Salt Lakers split over downtown temple street closures at City Council...
By Grace X. Maya
Published on March 12, 2026.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (The Church) is set to reopen its Salt Lake City temple in 2027, with a lengthy open house set to occur between April and October of 2027. However, some members of the downtown community have criticized the proposed street closures near Temple Square as overly intrusive. Urbanists are rallying behind an updated master plan for the Rio Grande district, while others are concerned about new restrictions on house parties. The Salt Lake Council also heard public comments on an ordinance that would close surrounding street segments. The closures, described as vital to the success of the open house, were supported by some members, including Scott Anderson, president of Zions Bank, and Amy Rees Anderson, vice-chairman of the Capitol Hill Community Council. Other residents raised concerns about the church's request to erect barricades and prohibit bicycles from passing through restricted blocks. The final decision on the street closure ordinance will be discussed at several upcoming council meetings before a final decision is made.
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