October 5, 2024

Will Major League Baseball come to Utah?

A significant metamorphosis is on the horizon for Salt Lake City’s westside with the Power District, a vast 100-acre site that is ready for development, offering breathtaking views of the downtown skyline and the pristine Wasatch Mountains, all while being adjacent to the serene Jordan River. Spearheaded by the Larry H. Miller company and the Miller family, this ambitious project is poised to be a dynamic center that harmonizes economic prosperity, cultural vibrancy, and ultimately leading to sporting excitement. 

Key to the appeal of the Power District is its strategic accessibility, strategically located with easy reach from major highways such as I-80, I-215, and I-15, as well as the TRAX Transit System. This strategic placement ensures seamless connectivity, facilitating convenient movement for both residential and visitors alike. 

The development timeline is promising, thanks to the substantial private investment and support. With the backing of influential stakeholders, including Governor Spencer J. Cox, Senate president Stuart J. Adams, House Speaker Mike Schultz, State Senator Luz Escamilla, State Senator Lincoln FIllmore, State Representative Ryan Wilcox, and the Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall, planning on construction on the Power District can commence at once. 

Central to the Power District vision is the prospect of Major League Baseball (MLB) making its mark on the westside. While MLB has not specified a timeline for team expansion, the readily developable site ensures that construction on the ballpark can commence swiftly when required. Governor Spencer J. Cox expresses confidence, when he stated “The westside is a gathering place for so many people and an opportunity to be a showcase as people are visiting our state for the first time to see this incredible development as well as potentially Major League Baseball sitting right there welcoming people into the capital city.” 

At the Forefront to the MLB expansion bid is Big League Utah, a community-driven initiative led by Larry H. Miller company and the Miller family. With an investment surpassing $3.5 Billion for this project, this ambitious endeavor aims to position the 

Power District as the ideal home for a Major League Baseball franchise, catapulting Salt Lake City into the national spotlight. 

The Power District is not just about constructing a ballpark; it envisions a comprehensive community development plan. Beyond the stadium, the project includes provisions for retail spaces, residential areas, commercial establishments, and entertainment venues. This holistic approach guarantees a year-round, 365 day experience with continuous activation and programming. 

A noteworthy aspect of the Power District’s development is its commitment to affordability and job creation. The incorporation of affordable housing options addresses the diverse needs of the community, while the diverse commercial and entertainment ventures will generate employment opportunities, further strengthening the economic landscape of Salt Lake City’s westside. 

In essence, the Power District is positioned to be a cornerstone of progress, weaving together the fabric of Salt Lake City’s westside with a fusion of sports, culture, and economic well-being. As the community rallies behind this visionary project, the possibility of Major League Baseball finding a home here is not just a dream but a tangible reality that promises to reshape the future of Salt Lake City.