Restoration plans announced for the Jordan River

The Power District will be a massive multi-use complex featuring sports, entertainment, housing, and business, located near and around the Jordan River. Rendering courtesy of the Larry H. Miller Company.

“At the Larry H. Miller Company, we believe the Jordan River should not be the back door of development. It should be the front porch of the community,” said CEO Steve Starks during a gathering at the river on February 26, 2026.

During the event, Larry H. Miller Real Estate announced plans to restore and activate a half‑mile stretch of the Jordan River—positioning it as the foundational feature of the 100+ acre Power District on Salt Lake City’s west side. The company also introduced Field Operations—the internationally acclaimed landscape architecture firm behind New York City’s High Line, Seattle's Waterfront Park, San Francisco’s Presidio Tunnel Tops, and Brooklyn’s Domino Park—as the lead landscape architect and designer for the riverfront restoration.

CEO of the Larry H. Miller Company Steve Starks says the Power District is a “once‑in‑a‑generation opportunity” to invest in the Jordan River. Photo by Julisa Olivera.

Starks described the endeavor as “a once-in-a-generation opportunity to invest in this critical Utah asset,” emphasizing the company’s commitment to creating a safe, welcoming public space that reconnects residents with the river.

Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall praised the announcement and plans from the Larry H. Miller Company, saying it’s a great example of private-public partnerships. Photo by Julisa Olivera.

Field Operations will focus on activating the Jordan River corridor through improved access, dynamic public spaces and strong community engagement—ensuring the river becomes a place where people gather, explore and stay connected. “Our approach begins with listening to the community and working closely with partners, while grounding the design in the realities of the river’s ecology and infrastructure,” said Richard Kennedy, Partner at Field Operations. “It’s a privilege to support a project that reflects the region’s values and elevates the Jordan as Utah’s great urban river.”

Planned improvements include removing invasive species, adding native vegetation, creating new recreation areas, water quality upgrades and building family‑friendly gathering spaces. “A healthy Jordan River means a healthier future for all of us as people, and the abundant wildlife that shares in the life‑giving elements of this resource,” said Soren Simonsen, executive director of the Jordan River Commission.

Outgoing State Representative Sandra Hollins speaking at the event announcing the Jordan River revitalization. Photo by Julisa Olivera.

The river restoration anchors the broader Power District plan, which includes 4,700 housing units, 1.3 million square feet of office space, retail, a hotel, and a potential Major League Baseball ballpark. Rocky Mountain Power’s new 10‑story headquarters is already under construction.

Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall noted that the vision aligns with ongoing efforts along the Jordan River and demonstrates the power of coordinated public and private investment.

The planning process will prioritize broad community involvement, with residents, neighbors, and local organizations invited to participate in public meetings as the project advances.