California Burger: Big flavor, local favorite on SLC’s Westside
On this month’s edition of Westside Eats, we discovered another local gem that’s been serving up flavor and variety for more than a decade — California Burger. Located at 306 North 300 West, this unassuming spot has been a go-to for the community for the past 13 years, offering a menu that stretches far beyond your average burger joint.
The Other Side Village uses self-governed prep school as part of ‘whole person’ framework
The Other Side Village (TOSV), an all-inclusive living community for the chronically homeless, is currently receiving residents. But before gaining access to one of 60 cottage homes in the first phase of development, future residents are required to attend at least six months of training at The Other Side Village Prep School.
Through TOSV Prep School, those enrolled learn a new way of thinking using a human first, whole person framework that emphasizes self-love, self-trust, accountability, solidarity, community, unlearning negative beliefs, mentoring, self-reliance and honesty.
Seeking input on future of Northwest Quadrant
Salt Lake City and the Utah Inland Port Authority (UIPA) are seeking comments and feedback as they work to determine the future of the Northwest Quadrant. Specifically, they’re seeing public input on the area west of the airport.
Students in Salt Lake City sign ‘Letters of Intent’ for apprenticeships
The Salt Lake City School District recently hosted its largest-ever Talent Ready Apprenticeship Connection (TRAC) Signing Day, celebrating 19 students—the biggest cohort in district history to join the TRAC Advanced Manufacturing Program. Students signed their letters of intent, officially committing to youth apprenticeships with top local employers, including two manufacturers located on Salt Lake City’s Westside, Utah PaperBox and Stadler Rail.
First-ever assistive technology fair to be held on Salt Lake City’s Westside
Utah State University is hosting Salt Lake City’s first assistive technology fair, ‘Gadget Galaxy.’ The event will highlight different kinds of technology available for individuals with disabilities. It will take place on Saturday, July 19th from 10:30 am to 2:30 pm at the Sorenson Unity Center in Glendale.
Mental health services are here, but Westside residents still face barriers
In some parts of Salt Lake City, finding a therapist is as easy as searching online; on the Westside, it’s a different story. A tangle of challenges — from confusing messaging to financial strain — can limit the level of access to mental health services.
The issues regarding access to mental health care for Westside residents are multifaceted. Barriers like cost and limited insurance coverage to fewer nearby providers can hinder availability.
Realignment of the Jordan River Trail, which is included in the Backman Community Open Space Project, is now underway
A new trail alignment for the Jordan River Parkway Trail from 500 North to the Backman Bridge – including construction of a nature playground and outdoor classroom, and installation of a new irrigation system – is currently underway.
Project Aims to Improve Air Quality and Transportation Access for Utah’s Aging Communities
Efforts to improve air quality and expand transportation options for older adults and underserved communities in Utah are receiving a boost through the AARP Community Challenge program. The national initiative supports quick-action projects that make communities healthier, more equitable, and easier to navigate for residents of all ages.
Locally, the nonprofit organization HEAL Utah used the grant to explore solutions at the intersection of transportation, air quality, and public health, with a focus on vulnerable populations most impacted by pollution and mobility barriers.
Celebrating Every Star: Inclusive Prom Lights Up Salt Lake City
On a warm May evening, laughter echoed through the halls of Neighborhood House as over 120 teens and adults with disabilities experienced something many had never had before, a prom of their own.
Hosted collaboratively by Neighborhood House, Columbus Community Center, and the Ability Inclusion Center, The Time of Our Lives Prom was much more than a dance; it was a heartfelt celebration of inclusion, collaboration, and the power of community. From glittering gowns to pasta dinners and some serious moves on the dance floor, every detail of the May 16 event was designed to make each guest feel celebrated, empowered, and unforgettable.
Nico’s: A cozy, comfort-filled Mexican spot in Fairpark
If you’re on the hunt for hidden gems serving up comforting, home-style Mexican food, Nico’s should be at the top of your list. Located at 1458 W North Temple Street in the heart of the Fairpark neighborhood, this family-owned restaurant has been delighting locals for the past 12 years — and it’s easy to see why.
Uniting Salt Lake City: What the Rio Grande Plan brings to the Westside
Salt Lake City stands at a crossroads. With the release of a new economic study from Utah State University (USU), momentum is growing behind the Rio Grande Plan — a bold proposal to reroute and bury heavy rail lines, restore the historic Rio Grande Depot as a transit hub, and unlock dozens of acres of developable land. For residents of Salt Lake's Westside, long separated by rail lines dating back to 1870, this plan represents not just a transit project, but a once-in-a-generation opportunity to stitch the city back together.
The Other Side Donuts to celebrate one-year anniversary on June 28th
On June 28, The Other Side Donuts (760 S. Redwood Road) will celebrate its one-year anniversary from 9 am to 8 pm. The Salt Lake City business is a social enterprise of The Other Side Village.
Salt Lake City Mayor’s Office releases new public safety plan: Here’s what that could mean for the Westside
Of the many community challenges Mayor Erin Mendenhall has sought to address during her administration, homelessness is one of the top issues. Earlier this year, the mayor’s office released a comprehensive public safety plan that primarily focuses on homelessness and issues the mayor believes are directly tied to homelessness.
UTA, Salt Lake City improving public transportation with high-frequency “Go Routes”
Several bus lines across Salt Lake City – including two on the Westside – have been upgraded to have more frequent service. It’s part of a partnership between the city and UTA to launch Go Routes. Photo courtesy of UTA.
Grant program to improve business facades open for applications
A grant program to improve local businesses is open through the rest of May. The Neighborhood Business Improvement Program (NBIP) is a resource offered by Salt Lake City to help strengthen the local business community.
Los Tapatios: A birria lover’s paradise in Fairpark
If you love tacos and are on the hunt for authentic birria, look no further than Los Tapatios. Located in the Fairpark neighborhood at 120 N 900 West (in the Rancho Market shopping center), this spot is serving up rich, flavorful dishes that are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Construction begins on the 600/700 North Corridor after 5 years of planning
Construction to upgrade 600/700 North from 800 West to Redwood Road has begun. During the first phase, construction will focus on the south side of the road from 1200 West to Redwood Road. There will be four phases of construction over the next few years.
myHometown SLC: What do they do? Who do they help? How can you get involved?
“My Hometown Salt Lake City is an initiative that combines the strengths of individuals, faith-based organizations, and community partners to help individuals and families in this community improve their residential living conditions, maintain access to available services and community information, connect productively with other neighbors, and serve together.” - myHometown SLC
SEG Foundation delivers direct impact to Westside neighborhoods as All In On Utah campaign reaches thousands
Throughout the Utah Jazz and Utah Hockey Club seasons, Smith Entertainment Group (SEG) has stayed true to one mission: showing up for the community – especially those on Salt Lake City’s Westside. And as the offseason begins, the SEG Foundation is looking ahead, listening closely to the needs of those in the community, and finding new ways to deepen its impact where it matters most.
Utah Naloxone hits milestone in reported opioid overdoses
Many have heard or read about the opioid overdose crisis in Utah, but few realize that in 2014, the state ranked 4th in the nation for overdose-related deaths. Thanks to those who raised awareness and worked tirelessly to bring change, we can celebrate that as of 2021, Utah has dropped to 42nd in overdose death rates.