Blaming broken promises for Great Salt Lake, lawmaker threatens to block homeless campus
Signs of solidarity: Anti-ICE messages appear at Westside businesses
If you’ve walked down the streets of the Westside recently — visiting a local business or shop — you may have noticed red and yellow signs on windows and doors reading “No ICE Allowed” or “ICE Out of Utah.” At first look, they may seem like simple statements. But each sign represents an act of solidarity, community organizing, and resistance — all rooted in the real fear that many immigrant families are facing every single day.
Community Spotlight: January 2026
2026 started off with a lot of news, including several high-profile stories taking place on the Westside. From a shooting outside a funeral service to anti-ICE demonstrations outside a warehouse rumored to become an ICE detention facility, January brought quite a bit of attention to the Westside. At the same time, smaller businesses continue to expand and the city continues to work on improving West-East transportation.
Several of these things are featured in this month’s Community Spotlight.
Westside representatives offer insights, answer questions, and address concerns surrounding legislative session
The 2026 legislative session has officially begun — the Utah Senate and Utah House gaveled in at the State Capitol on January 20th — and lawmakers hit the ground running. Many spent months preparing ahead of time, finalizing bills, educating themselves on issues, and meeting with their constituents.
Ahead of the session, state lawmakers who represent the Westside came together for a Q&A session with locals. The event, hosted by Westside Coalition and catered by All Chay, took place at the State Fairpark earlier this month.
Westsiders prepare for upcoming legislative session with help from HEAL Utah
Salt Lake City’s Westside residents are watching a new partnership grow between the Westside Coalition (WSC) and the Healthy Environment Alliance of Utah (HEAL). At their November board meeting, the WSC confirmed HEAL as an advisor to help educate and train community members on how to effectively participate in the upcoming legislative session.
Buzzed Coffee House: From Westside roots to downtown brews
If you’re in downtown Salt Lake City and searching for exceptional coffee, Buzzed Coffee House is a spot you need to check out. Located at 265 State Street, Suite 113, Buzzed Coffee House has brought its Westside roots into the heart of downtown while staying true to its community-centered mission.
Jordan River bridge reconstruction underway in Rose Park
Motorists traveling through Salt Lake City’s Rose Park neighborhood will face a new detour for the next several months as the 600/700 North bridge over the Jordan River is rebuilt.
The bridge closed Monday, January 5, for demolition and a complete reconstruction and is expected to remain closed through June 2026.