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SOAR: Government Center Update

September 2024

Salt Lake County is evaluating the future of the Government Center (two buildings built in 1987), which houses many core county services. Over the next 15 years, these buildings will require more than $124 million in maintenance. The current building design is confusing to the public and services are scattered through both buildings. Additionally, there are many unused areas, and the age of the buildings make them expensive to operate.

Given these factors, the county is exploring the purchase of an existing office space, which may be more cost-effective than maintaining, remodeling, or rebuilding the current campus. Relocating to a more central location within the valley is also being considered.

Frequently Asked Questions

The SOAR project is a comprehensive internal review that was conducted to assess Salt Lake County’s service delivery model. The goal was to identify areas for improvement and recommend changes that would enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of Salt Lake County services. The recommendation to purchase a new building was a direct result of this assessment.

The Government Center is nearly 40 years old and Salt Lake County intends to purchase a new building to centralize operations, improve public access to County services,  and create a more efficient working environment for County employees.

The SOAR project evaluated Salt Lake County's service delivery and identified areas where improvements could be made, including at the Government Center. The Government Center is currently in need of more than $124 million in deferred maintenance for core building systems (HVAC, piping, etc.) to remain safe and protective.

One of the key recommendations from the SOAR project was to centralize operations in a modern, more accessible building to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of public service delivery. 

Salt Lake County intends to select a centrally located site that offers easy access to public transportation, including TRAX, freeway access, trails, and other transit options, to ensure convenience for both employees and the public.

A new building will feature a service center specifically designed to streamline public access to Salt Lake County services. A central location in proximity to public transportation will make it easier for residents to visit and conduct business with Salt Lake County.

Working with project consultants, County leadership along identified three main options: remodel the existing Government Center, rebuild the Government Center in a more efficient manner on the existing site, or purchase space.

The option to purchase existing space is by far the most cost-effective option. Additionally, current market conditions make  it an opportune time to acquire preexisting office space at a favorable price.

The new building will provide a modern and efficient workspace with enhanced amenities for Salt Lake County employees. A central location and access to public transportation options will reduce commuting times and offer more sustainable travel options.

Salt Lake County is conducting thorough planning and community consultations to ensure  a new building meets the needs of constituents and employees. A new(er) building will be designed with accessibility, sustainability, and efficiency in mind, as well as with a focus on enhancing public service delivery.

Yes, the new building will include adequate parking facilities for employees and visitors. Salt Lake County is also prioritizing access to public and active transportation to reduce the reliance on personal vehicles.

Salt Lake County is currently in the planning and purchasing phase. Once a purchase is finalized, the County will begin the process of moving Government Center operations to a new building. As the project progresses, the expected timeline will be shared with employees and the public. At this time, a move is estimated to occur within 12–18 months.

The purchase will be funded through a combination of Salt Lake County budget allocations. 

The Government Center buildings have significant deferred maintenance needs, with repair and renovation costs exceeding the purchase price of a new building. Additionally, current market conditions make it an opportune time to acquire a new building at a favorable price. Salt Lake County is exploring the potential to redevelop the existing building site with private developers. This redevelopment could result in additional property tax revenue and long-term land lease revenue for Salt Lake County, creating a sustainable financial benefit for the community.

To stay informed about the progress of a possible move, continue to visit saltlakecounty.gov/soar , attend public meetings, and subscribe to Salt Lake County newsletters. Salt Lake County intends to provide regular updates on the project progress.