State leaders recently achieved a significant milestone as they broke ground on the site of the old state prison. This 600-acre plot at the Point of the Mountain is set to undergo a remarkable transformation, with the first 100-acre phase already in motion. The development will bring a variety of amenities, including shopping, entertainment, a main street, and high-density housing. A notable chapel, the only remnant of the former prison not demolished last year, will also be incorporated.

Unleashing the Potential of "The Point"

House Speaker Mike Schultz, R-Hooper, emphasized the exceptional location of "The Point," stating that it will play a crucial role in propelling Utah into the future. On Tuesday morning, he and other state leaders symbolically kicked off construction by operating excavators and turning over dirt. One of the key elements of this first phase is the extension of Porter Rockwell Boulevard, which will not only serve vehicles but also include pedestrian and cycling paths. Schultz highlighted the significance of this roadway, noting that it addresses one of the state's biggest transportation congestion areas.Michael Ambre, executive director of The Point of the Mountain State Land Authority, revealed that the new extension of Porter Rockwell Boulevard is expected to open in two years. In addition to the road, some buildings are set to start construction in the next year, along with other infrastructure such as utilities. Utah lawmakers allocated $165 million for infrastructure at "The Point," which will be repaid with interest from future ground leases. Ambre expressed excitement as he saw the long-planned infrastructure finally coming to life.During the ceremony, Gov. Spencer Cox touted the "thousands of new housing units" that will be added at "The Point," addressing the state's housing shortage. While specific numbers are yet to be determined, Ambre assured that there will be ample housing opportunities. The first phase of construction will include market-rate apartments for lease, although the breakdown of affordable and market-rate units remains unknown. Earlier this year, leaders indicated that several hundred of the more than 3,000 multi-family housing units in the first phase would be classified as affordable.Workers have been actively preparing the site and installing natural gas and other infrastructure since early this year, in anticipation of Tuesday's groundbreaking. Leaders estimate that developing all 600 acres of the state-owned land at "The Point" will take approximately 30 years, with the first phase scheduled to be completed in 15 years. However, Ambre hopes to expedite the timeline.Draper Mayor Troy Walker expressed satisfaction at seeing construction begin after years of planning. He emphasized that this is just the beginning and that the development is a significant step forward for the community.The transformation of "The Point" holds great promise for Utah, offering a diverse range of amenities and addressing important issues such as housing and transportation. As construction progresses, it will bring new life to the area and contribute to the state's continued growth.