Project Aims to Improve Air Quality and Transportation Access for Utah’s Aging Communities
Efforts to improve air quality and expand transportation options for older adults and underserved communities in Utah are receiving a boost through the AARP Community Challenge program. The national initiative supports quick-action projects that make communities healthier, more equitable, and easier to navigate for residents of all ages.
Locally, the nonprofit organization HEAL Utah used the grant to explore solutions at the intersection of transportation, air quality, and public health, with a focus on vulnerable populations most impacted by pollution and mobility barriers.
Celebrating Every Star: Inclusive Prom Lights Up Salt Lake City
On a warm May evening, laughter echoed through the halls of Neighborhood House as over 120 teens and adults with disabilities experienced something many had never had before, a prom of their own.
Hosted collaboratively by Neighborhood House, Columbus Community Center, and the Ability Inclusion Center, The Time of Our Lives Prom was much more than a dance; it was a heartfelt celebration of inclusion, collaboration, and the power of community. From glittering gowns to pasta dinners and some serious moves on the dance floor, every detail of the May 16 event was designed to make each guest feel celebrated, empowered, and unforgettable.
Nico’s: A cozy, comfort-filled Mexican spot in Fairpark
If you’re on the hunt for hidden gems serving up comforting, home-style Mexican food, Nico’s should be at the top of your list. Located at 1458 W North Temple Street in the heart of the Fairpark neighborhood, this family-owned restaurant has been delighting locals for the past 12 years — and it’s easy to see why.
Uniting Salt Lake City: What the Rio Grande Plan brings to the Westside
Salt Lake City stands at a crossroads. With the release of a new economic study from Utah State University (USU), momentum is growing behind the Rio Grande Plan — a bold proposal to reroute and bury heavy rail lines, restore the historic Rio Grande Depot as a transit hub, and unlock dozens of acres of developable land. For residents of Salt Lake's Westside, long separated by rail lines dating back to 1870, this plan represents not just a transit project, but a once-in-a-generation opportunity to stitch the city back together.
The Other Side Donuts to celebrate one-year anniversary on June 28th
On June 28, The Other Side Donuts (760 S. Redwood Road) will celebrate its one-year anniversary from 9 am to 8 pm. The Salt Lake City business is a social enterprise of The Other Side Village.
Salt Lake City Mayor’s Office releases new public safety plan: Here’s what that could mean for the Westside
Of the many community challenges Mayor Erin Mendenhall has sought to address during her administration, homelessness is one of the top issues. Earlier this year, the mayor’s office released a comprehensive public safety plan that primarily focuses on homelessness and issues the mayor believes are directly tied to homelessness.
UTA, Salt Lake City improving public transportation with high-frequency “Go Routes”
Several bus lines across Salt Lake City – including two on the Westside – have been upgraded to have more frequent service. It’s part of a partnership between the city and UTA to launch Go Routes. Photo courtesy of UTA.
Grant program to improve business facades open for applications
A grant program to improve local businesses is open through the rest of May. The Neighborhood Business Improvement Program (NBIP) is a resource offered by Salt Lake City to help strengthen the local business community.
Los Tapatios: A birria lover’s paradise in Fairpark
If you love tacos and are on the hunt for authentic birria, look no further than Los Tapatios. Located in the Fairpark neighborhood at 120 N 900 West (in the Rancho Market shopping center), this spot is serving up rich, flavorful dishes that are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Construction begins on the 600/700 North Corridor after 5 years of planning
Construction to upgrade 600/700 North from 800 West to Redwood Road has begun. During the first phase, construction will focus on the south side of the road from 1200 West to Redwood Road. There will be four phases of construction over the next few years.
myHometown SLC: What do they do? Who do they help? How can you get involved?
“My Hometown Salt Lake City is an initiative that combines the strengths of individuals, faith-based organizations, and community partners to help individuals and families in this community improve their residential living conditions, maintain access to available services and community information, connect productively with other neighbors, and serve together.” - myHometown SLC
SEG Foundation delivers direct impact to Westside neighborhoods as All In On Utah campaign reaches thousands
Throughout the Utah Jazz and Utah Hockey Club seasons, Smith Entertainment Group (SEG) has stayed true to one mission: showing up for the community – especially those on Salt Lake City’s Westside. And as the offseason begins, the SEG Foundation is looking ahead, listening closely to the needs of those in the community, and finding new ways to deepen its impact where it matters most.
Utah Naloxone hits milestone in reported opioid overdoses
Many have heard or read about the opioid overdose crisis in Utah, but few realize that in 2014, the state ranked 4th in the nation for overdose-related deaths. Thanks to those who raised awareness and worked tirelessly to bring change, we can celebrate that as of 2021, Utah has dropped to 42nd in overdose death rates.
All Chay: Vibrant vegan Vietnamese in Fairpark
Tucked away in the Fairpark neighborhood at 1264 W 500 N, All Chay has been making waves throughout Salt Lake City’s food scene for the past eight years. This family-owned gem offers something truly unique to the Westside: a fully vegan and vegetarian Vietnamese menu that doesn’t compromise on flavor, creativity, or comfort.
Salt Lake City working towards improving infrastructure through the Capital Improvement Program
Several infrastructure-related projects could be coming to the Westside within the next year, thanks to the Capital Improvement Program.
Transportation officials to hold open house ahead of 600/700 North reconstruction
Salt Lake City’s Westside residents will get a chance to see the latest plans for reconstructing 600 North and 700 North by attending an open house on Wednesday, April 16th.
Fairpark updates: Only one stadium, new zoning district created, Executive Director named
As developments in the Fairpark area go forward, only one major league sports stadium will be built after all.
Plus, the Salt Lake City Council has created the Jordan River Fairpark Zoning District along North Temple to oversee the development of the so-called Power District.
And a new executive director has been named to lead the Utah Fairpark Area Investment and Restoration District.
The Salt Lake County Immigrant People’s Agenda
For over two decades, Comunidades Unidas (CU), a nonprofit organization built by immigrant Latina women in 1999, has provided many of those trying to make Utah their home with the basic resources they need to thrive, focusing on healthcare, food, shelter, and economic security. While our direct services remain vital, we recognize that the power necessary to change the conditions immigrants face in Utah comes from the political formation of everyday, working-class people, including immigrants. Ultimately, this will enable immigrants to actively shape their communities and pursue lives that center their dignity.
Joaquina Mexican Snacks: Small but mighty addition to Poplar Grove’s food scene
Nestled in the heart of Poplar Grove at 484 S 900 West, Joaquina Mexican Snacks is a small but mighty addition to the neighborhood’s food scene. Open for only four months, this cozy spot is already making a big impact with its delicious offerings and welcoming atmosphere.
Rose Park and Fairpark residents voice excitement about proposed improvements on 600/700 North
Reconstruction of 600/700 North in Salt Lake City is set to begin sometime this spring or summer. There have been various discussions over the past few years on how to improve safety in this Westside corridor, and now the city is just about ready to move forward.