Experimentation, observation and reflection. What can be done in Research Park to improve sustainable stormwater management systems, community building and mass transit accessibility?

With data leading the way, Research Park leaders have approved a few “experiments” beginning this month. Attend the open house on June 11, 2019, to hear about these projects and more.

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LANDSCAPE LAB

Landscape Lab’s goal is to demonstrate sound stormwater management practices. Water runoff will be re-directed through beautiful living plant communities. This allows the plant roots and microbial communities to take up pollutants and filter water through the soil to recharge the groundwater.

The existing 1-acre area of water-intensive turfgrass south of the Williams Building will transform into a picturesque, walkable space featuring local plants that reduce irrigation demand while providing opportunities for experimentation and learning.

The Williams Building is adjacent to Red Butte Creek, a tributary of the Jordan River. All stormwater in Salt Lake City ultimately ends up in the Jordan River. Keeping stormwater on-site will not only protect the Jordan River from pollutants and flooding, but it will also significantly reduce irrigation costs.

Read more about the project here.[/bs_well]

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HEART OF THE PARK

The goal of this pilot initiative is to create a place for the community to eat meals, gather, host events and ultimately connect to transportation. Currently located in a corner of the Marriott Hotel parking lot alongside Wakara Way, this mixed-use space will also act as a “pop-up” transportation hub.

The space will feature food trucks Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sign up for a weekly mailer on the scheduled food trucks here.

The goal is for employees in Research Park to leave their car keys in the office, get some fresh air and eat some good local food. These small steps will reduce the number of cars on the road during the days and in turn, reduce emissions into our air. This is also an excellent opportunity to build opportunities for stronger community activity and engagement for the occupants of Research Park as well as the broader university community.

The Heart of the Park is one of several initiatives being developed by the Research Park Transportation Working Group. This community-based organization is focused on improving the overall accessibility and availability of transportation resources in Research Park. Individuals interested in participating can email researchparktdm@gmail.com.[/bs_well]

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POP-UP MOBILITY HUB

It has long been acknowledged and understood that addressing existing transportation challenges will greatly improve the quality and growth of Research Park and its surrounding neighborhoods. Challenges include Research Park access, safety, parking and lack of affordable and convenient transportation choices.

Guided by this vision, the park has built a “pop-up” transportation hub. Here users can connect with UTA, campus shuttle stops, bike parking, and e-scooters. A transportation website for Research Park is also being developed with tools for ridesharing and information about all mobility options.[/bs_well]

UPCOMING PROJECT

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MYRIAD GENETICS EXPANSION

A new 130,000-square-foot, five-story office building and 800-stall, six-story concrete parking structure will break ground in the next few weeks. Construction is planned to coincide with the Landscape Lab.

The office building has been designed with the idea of a gem or jewel, placed in alignment with the drive up the hill and surrounded by outdoor plazas and plants.[/bs_well]

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RESEARCH PARK CONNECTING BRIDGE

To improve the connectivity between Research Park and the academic campus, a trail and footbridge are being proposed as a Phase II component to the Landscape Lab. Spanning the Red Butte Creek at the Williams Building, the bridge and trail will connect pedestrians and cyclists to existing campus active transportation routes.[/bs_well]