Digital Only: News
Salt Lake Temple Renovation Details Released
Renovation will sustain the temple for years to come and enhance, refresh, and beautify the temple and the surrounding grounds.
“We promise that you will love the results,” President Russell M. Nelson said at a news conference last April where plans for the renovation of the Salt Lake Temple were released. He said the renovations will “emphasize and highlight the life, ministry, and mission of Jesus Christ in His desire to bless every nation, kindred, tongue, and people.”
The temple will close December 29, 2019, and remain closed for four years to undergo major renovation to replace mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems and provide a seismic upgrade to fortify the building against large-magnitude earthquakes.
“This project will enhance, refresh, and beautify the temple and its surrounding grounds,” said President Nelson. “Obsolete systems within the building will be replaced. Safety and seismic concerns will be addressed. Accessibility will be enhanced so that members with limited mobility can be better accommodated.”
The surrounding area on Temple Square and the plaza adjacent to the Church Office Building will likewise be affected by the renovation as structures are demolished and rebuilt.
The renovations will include modifications to allow better access to temple grounds, two new visitor pavilions that will replace the South Visitors’ Center, new formal entry pavilions for the temple, and a new guest access tunnel that will connect the Conference Center parking area to an underground entry point to the temple.
Temple Square attractions that will remain accessible to visitors during the renovation include the Joseph Smith Memorial Building, Lion House, Beehive House, Church History Museum, Family History Library, Church History Library, and Conference Center.
The temple is expected to reopen in 2024 with a public open house and subsequent rededication.