SLC.gov

Aug. 21, 2025

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Salt Lake City is taking the next step toward transforming the long-vacant Fleet Block into a dynamic, walkable center for families, businesses, and neighborhood life. Two nationally recognized development partners will redevelop the northern parcels of the Fleet Block, located along 800 South and 300/400 West.  

After issuing a request for qualifications in May, the City convened a selection committee of community members, nonprofit leaders, and City staff. After a thorough review of proposals, the committee chose Mercy Housing and Brinshore Development for the northeast and northwest sites, respectively. 

“These developers have proven they know how to build community-focused development that works for families, and I’m excited to see them do just that for the Fleet Block,” said Mayor Erin Mendenhall. “Right now, this lot is a barrier between beautiful neighborhoods. But soon, it will be a bridge—alive with affordable homes, welcoming green space, and public art.” 

Nearly a decade ago, the Salt Lake City Council adopted the Downtown Master Plan, envisioning a Fleet Block with mid-block streets and public spaces connecting Central Ninth and the Granary District and creating a more cohesive, permeable urban environment. 

These new partnerships move that vision closer to reality and will bring affordable housing and commercial space to the heart of the Granary District.  

“The Fleet Block is a canvas for the best Salt Lake City can be: connected, livable and people-centered,” said Council Member Darin Mano, who represents the area on the City Council. “With this redevelopment, we’re bringing much-needed amenities and laying the groundwork for a thriving space our community can enjoy for decades to come.” 

Mercy Housing, the nation’s largest nonprofit affordable housing provider, has a proven track record of developing and operating high-quality housing for families across the West. The Fleet Block project marks their second Utah development.  

“Mercy Housing is proud to partner with Salt Lake City to transform the Fleet Block into a vibrant new community that will expand affordable housing opportunities for individuals and families near downtown,” said Mercy Housing Mountain Plains president Shelly Marquez. “We look forward to working with the community and our partners to shape the vision for this important development.” 

Brinshore Development, a trusted partner in Salt Lake City, has already delivered innovative, people-centered projects. Most recently, SPARK on North Temple opened with 48 deeply affordable units, 152 affordable units, and an on-site childcare center.  

“Brinshore is excited to be a part of the Fleet Block development,” said Brinshore Development co-founder David Brint. “There is no substitute for vision and leadership, and Salt Lake City is showing they have both.” 

Both developers’ proposals focused on bringing affordability, neighborhood connection, and new spaces and resources for families and residents. Their approaches align with the City’s goals, as outlined in the anti-displacement strategy Thriving in Place, to turn underutilized land into much-needed housing. 

The developments will also incorporate the City’s first-ever Community Benefits Agreement: a commitment to invest in the surrounding neighborhood based on feedback and negotiations with residents. Benefits could include public art, childcare, or space reserved for local businesses. 

“Instead of guessing what the neighborhood needs, the Community Benefits Agreement provides a unique opportunity for representatives of residents, businesses, and other stakeholders to directly work with developers,” said Salt Lake City Department of Community and Neighborhoods Director Tammy Hunsaker. “The people who live and work in the Granary district will help shape what is built here.” 

These partnerships mark a significant step forward in transforming the City-owned 8-acre site. The City will soon share plans for new mid-block streets, and earlier this month, the City’s Public Lands Department kicked off community engagement for the Fleet Block’s future public open space, located on the block’s southeast corner.  

Residents are encouraged to participate in the ongoing survey to help shape an inclusive space for all.