Did you know City Creek Center was built on the site of two older malls? City Creek Center isn’t just a shopping mall. It’s a revitalized piece of Salt Lake City history. Located near Temple Square this stunning development opened on March 22 2012. It covers over 23 acres.
The story of City Creek Center is a fascinating blend of faith commerce and urban renewal. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints played a key role in its development. They owned the land for many years. They wanted to improve the area around Temple Square. Taubman Centers Inc a major player in the mall industry also participated. They manage the shopping center’s operations.
The creation of City Creek Center involved demolishing the aging Crossroads Plaza and ZCMI Center malls. This ambitious project began in 2006. It required significant demolition and construction. The original plans even included a Dillard’s department store. However due to concerns about the Regent Street area’s design that plan was scrapped. This led to more space for other retailers and a new residential tower. Even the historic First Security Bank Building was almost demolished. But public outcry saved it.
City Creek Center boasts a unique design. It features a beautiful stream flowing through the center. This recreated City Creek is a nod to the city’s early days. The stream isn’t natural water. It’s recirculated tap water. The mall also includes stunning fountains. These fountains were designed by WET Design the same company behind the 2002 Winter Olympics cauldron.
The center is anchored by Nordstrom and Macy’s. These are two major department stores. There are also numerous smaller shops. A Harmons grocery store is located on the eastern block. City Creek Center also includes office and residential buildings. Around 700 housing units are there. They are a mix of condos and apartments. The Salt Lake Marriott Downtown at City Creek is a neighboring hotel although not officially part of the mall.
City Creek Center isn’t without its controversies. Some critics opposed the skybridge. It connects the upper levels of the mall across Main Street. They worried it would divert traffic from street-level businesses. Others questioned the Church’s involvement in such a large commercial venture. Some felt the money could have been used for charitable purposes. However City Creek Center has brought jobs and economic development to the city’s downtown core. It is also a beautiful addition to the urban landscape. It’s a place where history meets modernity. It’s a place where faith and commerce intertwine. It’s a place worth exploring.