Salt Lake City is stepping up its game in revitalizing the long-empty Fleet Block by enlisting two eminent development teams to turn the space into a buzzing, pedestrian-friendly hub. Chosen for the task are Mercy Housing and Brinshore Development, set to tackle the redevelopment of the northern parcels of the block situated at 800 South and 300/400 West, as per Salt Lake City.
Having cast a wide net with a call for qualifications back in May, the City drew together a selection committee comprised of local folks, nonprofit bigwigs, and city employees to vet the candidates. Although the committee was assembled by the City, the City selected the two development teams. As detailed by Salt Lake City, Mercy Housing lays claim to the northeast site, while Brinshore will spruce up the northwest parcel.
In the words of Mayor Erin Mendenhall, “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,” as obtained by Salt Lake City. The Mayor envisions the lot transforming from a barrier to a “bridge,” enriched with affordable homes, greenery, and public art.
Almost ten years distant, the Salt Lake City Council birthed the Downtown Master Plan, which fancies a Fleet Block with snaking mid-block streets and welcoming public areas that knit the Central Ninth and Granary District closer together. These new collaborations nudge that picture inch by inch into the plain of reality, infusing affordable housing and commerce into the Granary District’s core. The Granary District will be infused with affordable housing and commerce.
Mercy Housing, revered as the largest nonprofit affordable housing group in the nation, is recognized for its work in churning out top-notch homes for Western families. Emphasizing their pride, Mercy Housing Mountain Plains president Shelly Marquez told Salt Lake City, admitting they're “proud to partner with Salt Lake City to transform the Fleet Block into a vibrant new community.” Brinshore Development, conversely, has made its mark with an on-site childcare center and an array of unit affordability at SPARK on North Temple. Co-founder David Brint professed their eagerness “to be a part of the Fleet Block development,” underscoring the city’s vision and leadership.
