Salt Lake City to open stretch of Main Street to pedestrians this summer
May 28, 2021, 7:31 AM
SALT LAKE CITY — It will be easier to get out and experience the nightlife in downtown Salt Lake City this summer. Main Street will be closed to vehicle traffic and open to pedestrians from 400 South to South Temple. The closures will happen Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights every week until Labor Day.
SLC Open Streets is LIVE! Main Street is open only to foot traffic, bikes, and scooters from 4th South to South Temple. This will happen every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday night until Labor Day. @DowntownSLC @slcmayor @kslnewsradio pic.twitter.com/umFfhVuYQ5
— Nick Wyatt (@NickWyattNews) May 28, 2021
Salt Lake frees streets for pedestrians
SLC Open Streets is a partnership between the Downtown Alliance and the office of Mayor Erin Mendenhall. It will give access to hundreds of restaurants, dozens of live performances, and will only be accessible on foot, by bicycle, or by scooter. Salt Lake City did a test run of this idea back in the fall and organizers say it was a resounding success.
“I can tell you that last fall, some of these businesses saw a 30% spike in business,” said Downtown Alliance Executive Director Dee Brewer. “They loved it and they were anxious to do it again.”
Mayor Mendenhall is thrilled about the opportunity for people to have some fun after a tough year of pandemic-related restrictions.
“I think you’re going to experience a renaissance in Salt Lake City,” said Mayor Mendenhall. “More arts, more culture, and more ways to get out and experience this place.”
“It’s moving to see people out and see their smiles while they see other people and greet friends.” – @slcmayor @kslnewsradio pic.twitter.com/afd0m2q8ay
— Nick Wyatt (@NickWyattNews) May 28, 2021
Brewer and Mendenhall encourage pedestrians to take TRAX to downtown Salt Lake. You can also park in any of the thousands of parking spots around the city, in parking garages, or free for two hours at City Creek Mall.
Masks are encouraged, but optional while outdoors. However, some businesses might require them, so keep it handy when you hit the downtown streets.