SLCPD says progress is being made at the Jordan River Trail
Apr 19, 2025, 11:54 AM
A directional sign points the way along the Jordan River Trail on Monday, Nov. 26, 2018. (Scott G Winterton/Deseret News)
(Scott G Winterton/Deseret News)
SALT LAKE CITY — Rangers with the Salt Lake City Police Department are reporting a drop in both drug paraphernalia, and garbage around the Jordan River Trail, after a portion of the trail was temporarily closed at the beginning of April.
SLCPD said in a news release that the decision to temporarily close parts of the trail was because officers wanted to make improvements to the trail and make it safer for the public.
The news release said officers have since made 33 felony arrests, 49 misdemeanor arrests, and 45 citations – “primarily for drug paraphernalia and trespassing offenses.”
“We are committed to restoring the Jordan River Trail as a safe and welcoming public space,” Salt Lake City Police Chief Brian Redd said in the news release. “Through our strategic enforcement and close collaboration with city partners and mental health professionals, we are disrupting crime and addressing safety and livability concerns. These early results reflect the hard work and dedication of our officers, detectives, and the city’s Park Rangers. The positive feedback from trail users confirms we’re making an impact.”
Related: Rose Park homeowners say Jordan River trail closure created crime bottleneck
According to police, both bike and foot patrols are used to help clean up the area, and officers are planning to expand the patrols next week.
“The rangers have noticed a significant drop in the amount of drug paraphernalia and garbage found in the area and they have also seen an increase in people visiting the parks along the JRT,” police said.
The police chief also said keeping the park clean will be a “long-term commitment” and will take time make changes to the trail.
“Residents and trail users are stopping our officers and the park rangers to express their thanks,” Redd said. “While we’re seeing progress, we know lasting change will require a consistent, long-term commitment.”
Related: Salt Lake City police arrest 10 in targeted effort around Jordan River Trail
