[JMK]

New 10,000-seat state Fairpark arena nearing completion and will be ready for Days of ‘47 Rodeo

New facility set to be finished July 1; park officials hope to transform area into a nightlife destination.

A new 10,000-seat arena at the Utah State Fairpark is 95 percent complete and will be ready in plenty of time for the Days of '47 Rodeo debut at the venue, says Larry Mullenax, park executive director.

The $17 million facility was funded by the state ($10 million), Salt Lake County and Salt Lake City ($3 million), The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints ($3 million) and private donors.

"The new arena is a great example of how the community benefits when a public and private collaboration is formed," said Mullenax.

Although it is set to be finished July 1, the arena will have its first private event June 30. The first large event is the BMW Motorcycle Owners of America's annual rally from July 13 to 16, which the organization estimates will host 6,500 BMW motorcyclists.
...
With the approaching completion of the arena, state officials hope to change the atmosphere of the Fairpark. Pat's Barbecue is relocating full time to the park. Mullenax said that the Fairpark is speaking to other companies that are interested in moving to the park as well. The place aims to eventually become more than a venue for events but a nightlife destination.

"The arena will allow the Fairpark to produce and promote numerous events — rodeos, barrel races, concerts, motor sports," said Mullenax. "The exposure and positive economic impact on the surrounding Fairpark community will lead to additional development opportunities."

http://www.sltrib.com/news/5408572-1...-arena-nearing