April 1, 2025

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Closure part of a coordinated effort to improve trail and disrupt illegal activity

Salt Lake City is temporarily closing a section of the Jordan River Parkway Trail between Cottonwood Park and 700 North as part of a comprehensive initiative to address environmental degradation, infrastructure challenges, and persistent public safety concerns. 

This temporary closure, which is expected to last several months, is an effort to reclaim and revitalize public spaces and make them safer from illegal activity. In recent months, this area has seen an increase in environmental harm and criminal behavior, prompting growing concern from community members, neighbors, and trail users.

During the closure, the City—including Salt Lake City Department of Public Lands, Salt Lake City Police Department, Mayor’s Office and other departments—will carry out efforts to: 

·         Remove overgrown vegetation and debris 

·         Restore damaged riverbanks and habitat

·         Install improved lighting and infrastructure

·         Relocate a section of the trail between 500 North and Backman Elementary to improve visibility and safety

A marked detour plan is currently in place between these locations: 

·         Jordan River Trail at 800 North  

·         800 North to Catherine Street 

·         Catherine Street to Leadville Avenue  

·         Leadville Avenue to 1400 West 

·         1400 West to 500 North  

·         500 North to Montgomery Street 

·         Montgomery Street to Chaz Court 

·         Chaz Court to the Jordan River Trail 

The Salt Lake City Police Department (SLCPD) has significantly increased its presence along the trail in 2025 as part of Mayor Erin Mendenhall’s Public Safety Plan. Actions include: 

·         Additional daily patrols

·         Targeted operations targeting high-crime activity

·         Deployment of public safety cameras and drones for aerial visibility

·         Increased community outreach and engagement

·         Future enforcement guided by the SLCPD’s Jordan River Trail Strategic Plan

The Plan also includes proactive diversion efforts and connecting individuals to social services when appropriate.  

Salt Lake City remains committed to transparency and public input throughout this process. Community meetings and neighborhood outreach efforts are underway to answer questions, share progress updates, and gather feedback. 

The public is encouraged to visit the Salt Lake City Department of Public Lands’ Backman Community Open Space project page and follow Public Lands on Instagram for updates, detour information, and progress reports. If residents experience or see an emergency, call 911. To report non-emergency concerns, contact 801-799-3000.