SLC Council passes resolution aimed at saving Abravanel Hall
One of the trouble spots for the planned renovation of downtown Salt Lake City seems to be nearing a solution. The Salt Lake City Council adopted a resolution committing to the long-term preservation of Maurice Abravanel Hall, the iconic concert venue at the heart of the proposed renovation area surrounding Delta Center.
The bipartisan resolution came just a week after the council voted unanimously to approve a partnership agreement with Smith Entertainment Group (SEG) for the major rebuild and to impose a 0.5 percent sales tax increase to help pay for it.
The possible demise of Abravanel Hall to make way for the renovation has been a sticking point with some council members and a large part of Salt Lake City’s citizenship. The council’s resolution seems to make the preservation of the venue part of the city’s agreement with SEG.
Co-sponsored by Councilmembers Dave Alvord and Jim Bradley, the resolution aims to ensure that the iconic venue remains a centerpiece of Salt Lake City’s cultural landscape for future generations and provides for planning and updates to be shared with the council. Representatives of the Utah Symphony, who have called Abravanel Hall home for decades, attended an event where the resolution was presented.
“Abravanel Hall is more than just a building. It’s a symbol of our commitment to the arts, to culture, and to the unique identity of Salt Lake County,” said Alvord. “We’re proud to be part of ensuring that future generations can experience its world-class acoustics and architectural beauty.”
“It is incredibly meaningful to me to see this resolution pass,” said Bradley. “I was honored to be part of the naming of Abravanel Hall after the esteemed conductor Maurice Abravanel. He left a legacy of world-class symphonic music in Utah. It is only fitting to his memory that we pass this resolution with a commitment to keep his legacy alive for generations to come.”
The resolution was partially in response to a petition drive which garnered over 50,000 signatures calling for the protection of Abravanel Hall from any future development plans.
Built in 1979, Abravanel Hall is renowned worldwide for its exceptional acoustics and iconic architectural design. The hall has played host to countless performances and community events.