Picture this. You are standing on the western bank of the Jordan River. Before you lies West Jordan a city steeped in history and brimming with life.
West Jordan’s story begins in 1849 with Mormon pioneers seeking refuge in the Salt Lake Valley. They named the river flowing west of Salt Lake City the Western Jordan mirroring the biblical River Jordan. This name eventually shortened to the Jordan River and gave the city its name.
Imagine those early settlers. They built sawmills and tanneries. They tilled the fertile land along the river. They established a community based on faith hard work and resourcefulness. Archibald Gardner a devout Mormon built one of the area’s first sawmills in 1850. His legacy lives on in Gardner Village a charming historic district.
West Jordan wasn’t always a bustling metropolis. Its population exploded in the 1970s. Growth continues today. The city now boasts major retail centers like Jordan Landing. Large companies like Mountain America Credit Union have their headquarters here. Jordan Valley Medical Center is a major employer providing healthcare services to the community. Salt Lake Community College even expanded to include a campus in West Jordan.
Transportation has been a challenge. The city’s explosive population growth outpaced its infrastructure. Residents particularly those in the western areas faced long commutes. Road widening projects and the construction of the Mountain View Corridor freeway aim to alleviate this. A TRAX light rail line also services the area connecting residents to other parts of Salt Lake County.
South Valley Regional Airport sits in the heart of West Jordan. It began as Kearns Army Airfield during World War II. Its location beside Jordan Landing is no coincidence.
West Jordan is more than just a growing suburb. It’s a city with a rich history a vibrant present and an exciting future. It has its roots in the pioneering spirit of the 19th century and its sights set on continued growth and development. From its historical landmarks to its modern amenities West Jordan stands as a testament to human resilience innovation and the enduring power of community.