Mayor trying to keep Abravanel Hall “in its present form”

SALT LAKE CITY — Salt Lake County Mayor Jenny Wilson said she is working diligently to keep Abravanel Hall in its present form.

In a statement released Tuesday, Wilson said she’s received an extensive amount of input. Namely, about the future of the hall which houses the Utah Symphony.

Abravanel Hall became home to the Utah Symphony in 1979, named after Maurice Abravanel. He conducted the Utah Symphony and “championed classical music throughout Utah,” according to Salt Lake County.

The concern comes after Utah Jazz owner Ryan Smith announced plans to reimagine downtown Salt Lake City.

My statement regarding the future of Abravanel Hall. pic.twitter.com/iEy4D1pnwK

— Mayor Jenny Wilson (@SLCoMayor) May 14, 2024

Last week, Mayor Wilson released a joint statement along with Smith Entertainment Group and the Utah Symphony. In it, she said each of the entities is considering the high cost of renovating Abravanel Hall. They are also considering potential benefits of rebuilding.

Collaboration is key. We’re working to create a district where sports, entertainment, and culture thrive together. I’m looking forward to productive discussions with all stakeholders to make sure every voice is heard.

Yesterday, I attended the first Salt Lake City Council work… pic.twitter.com/3rkkD3U1c5

— Mayor Jenny Wilson (@SLCoMayor) May 8, 2024

 

At a meeting with the Salt Lake City Council last week, Smith Entertainment Group, Salt Lake City and Salt Lake County representatives said they envisioned “blocks filled with businesses and housing” which, according to KSL.com, would connect Delta Center with City Creek Center.

Abravanel Hall would stay put, KSL.com reported. What was unclear is whether there are plans to renovate or rebuild the Delta Center, City Creek Center, or Abravanel Hall.

Other reading:

• NHL expected to bring new customers to downtown Salt Lake City businesses
• League approves new NHL team in Utah, owned by Ryan, Ashley Smith