Chapter SLC: New Student Housing Approved in Salt Lake City

Chapter SLC: New Student Housing Approved in Salt Lake City

In the heart of Salt Lake City, a long-vacant retail space has become the focal point of an exciting transformation that promises to address a pressing need for student housing near the University of Utah. The East Central neighborhood, known for its proximity to educational institutions and vibrant urban corridors, is witnessing a significant shift as the former Office Max site at 410 S. 900 East prepares to make way for a modern apartment complex. This development, recently greenlit by the local planning commission with a unanimous vote, signals a broader trend of urban revitalization while targeting the specific housing demands of a growing student population. As transit access and community integration take center stage in city planning, this project stands poised to reshape the landscape of student living with innovative design and strategic location, sparking curiosity about how such initiatives can balance functionality with neighborhood character.

A Milestone for Urban Redevelopment

Transforming a Vacant Space

The approval of a new student housing complex at the corner of 900 East and 400 South marks a pivotal moment for Salt Lake City’s East Central area. Previously occupied by an underutilized Office Max building and its sprawling surface parking lot, the 1.94-acre site has sat dormant for years, awaiting a purpose that aligns with the city’s evolving needs. With a 7-0 vote from the planning commission on a recent Wednesday evening, the project gained the go-ahead to redevelop this space into a dynamic residential hub tailored for college students. The decision reflects a consensus on the importance of converting idle commercial properties into functional living spaces, especially in areas close to major educational institutions like the University of Utah. This transformation not only revitalizes a neglected plot but also sets a precedent for how urban infill can address housing shortages while enhancing the fabric of the surrounding community through thoughtful planning and design considerations.

Strategic Location and Transit Access

Situated near the 900 East TRAX Red Line stop, the approved development leverages its prime location to offer unparalleled convenience for students commuting to campus. The zoning designation of Transit Station Area – Urban Neighborhood Station – Core (TSA-UN-C) underscores the site’s suitability for high-density residential projects that prioritize accessibility to public transportation. This alignment with transit-oriented development principles ensures that future residents can easily navigate the city without relying heavily on personal vehicles, a critical factor in reducing urban congestion and promoting sustainable living. Additionally, the project’s placement along the bustling 400 South corridor, a known hub for student accommodations, amplifies its relevance in meeting demographic demands. With 170 structured parking stalls and dedicated bicycle parking spaces, the design further supports a variety of mobility options, catering to the diverse needs of its target population while integrating seamlessly with the area’s infrastructure.

Design and Community Impact

Architectural Features and Amenities

The newly approved housing complex will feature 252 units, primarily four-bedroom configurations, offering a total of 696 beds at full capacity. Rising over five residential stories atop 2.5 levels of concrete parking, the structure is designed to maximize space on the compact site while providing a modern aesthetic that breaks away from visual monotony. Along 400 South, the facade stretches over 425 feet at grade but is segmented into smaller sections under 200 feet to create a more inviting streetscape. Variances granted during the design review process for elements like facade length and front setbacks demonstrate a flexible approach to balancing architectural ambition with zoning constraints. Ground floor amenities, including a public-facing café, co-working spaces, an art and maker studio, and a pedestrian-friendly lobby, aim to foster community engagement. Two internal courtyards and a rooftop outdoor pool on the sixth floor’s southeast corner further enhance the living experience for residents.

Fostering Community Integration

Beyond its architectural merits, the project emphasizes integration with the surrounding neighborhood through unique initiatives and considerations. One notable proposal involves collaboration with University of Utah students to create a mural on the south facade, facing the now-closed Bennion Elementary School property. While the future of the school site remains uncertain, as highlighted by city planner Sara Javoronok, this artistic endeavor could visually activate the space and strengthen ties between the development and the local area. Moreover, the intersection near 900 East and 400 South has seen other recent revitalization efforts, such as approved for-sale townhomes just east of the site, pointing to a broader trend of renewal in the vicinity. These elements collectively illustrate a commitment to not only meeting housing needs but also contributing positively to the cultural and social landscape of East Central, ensuring that the development serves as a catalyst for neighborhood vitality and cohesion.

Addressing Student Housing Needs

Responding to a Critical Gap

The developer behind this ambitious project, Cole West, has identified a significant shortfall in purpose-built student accommodations in Salt Lake City, a gap this new complex aims to bridge. With 22 prior projects in the city encompassing both for-sale and rental properties, the company brings a wealth of experience to this endeavor. Walker Wood, vice president of development at Cole West, emphasized the urgent need for housing tailored specifically to students, particularly those attending the nearby University of Utah. The strategic choice of location along a key corridor like 400 South, coupled with proximity to transit options, positions this development as a vital solution to overcrowding and limited options faced by many in the student community. By focusing on high-density, shared living spaces like four-bedroom units, the project maximizes capacity while catering to the budgetary and social preferences of its intended residents, marking a targeted response to a longstanding urban challenge.

A Step Toward Sustainable Growth

Reflecting on the broader implications, the approval of this housing initiative underscores a commitment to sustainable urban growth through projects that prioritize demographic needs and efficient land use. The collaboration between RB Salt Lake LLC as the landowner, Cole West as the developer, and a skilled team including Layton Surveys, Hunt Day, and Lamar Johnson Collaborative ensures that every aspect, from civil engineering to landscape architecture, aligns with modern standards of livability. This development stands as a testament to how thoughtful planning can transform underutilized spaces into vibrant residential hubs that support educational communities. As Salt Lake City continues to evolve, such initiatives pave the way for future projects that balance density with design, offering a blueprint for addressing housing demands while maintaining a focus on accessibility and community integration. Moving forward, stakeholders can look to expand similar efforts along other key corridors, ensuring that growth remains inclusive and responsive to the city’s diverse population.

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