Summit County considers $39M investment in Kimball Junction development with Dakota Pacific

Summit County/Dakota Pacific public-private partnership Project Master Planning. Photo: Dakota Pacific Real Estate

The plan, still conceptual, outlines a public-private partnership aimed at transforming the area with affordable housing, civic spaces, and enhanced transit facilities—and a $39 million investment from the county

PARK CITY, Utah — After years of debate and a legal battle over Dakota Pacific Real Estate’s (DPRE) attempts to amend the 2008 Tech Park development agreement, Summit County and DPRE revealed a new master plan for Kimball Junction on Sept. 18. The proposal comes from months of closed-door subcommittee discussions, while both parties have agreed to put a stay on legal actions while negotiating. The plan, still conceptual, outlines a public-private partnership aimed at transforming the area with affordable housing, civic spaces, and enhanced transit facilities.

The controversy

A state bill that would have allowed DPRE to move forward with the project without Summit County approval passed during the 2023 General Legislative Session. In response, Summit County filed a lawsuit against DPRE in March 2023. In June, Third District Judge Richard Mrazik ruled that the bill ultimately did not apply to DPRE. Both Summit County and DPRE agreed in December to temporarily stay legal proceedings and engage in public negotiations outside the courtroom.

In May 2024, Summit County Council approved the purchase of the Skullcandy building in Kimball Junction for $17.5 million, which will become the new home of county offices.

Sept. 18, 2024: The new Master Plan development proposal was shared after months of closed-door subcommittee discussions between DPRE and members of the Summit County Council.

The project now looks to take a collaborative approach to addressing traffic concerns around SR-224 while creating a walkable, community-focused town center.

Key details:

• Affordable housing: Summit County will oversee the construction of 165 affordable units, with Dakota Pacific contributing 60-70 more units at 40-45% Area Median Income (AMI).
• Residential buildout: Dakota Pacific plans to add up to 600 total units, including senior living facilities.
• Parking: A shared parking structure with around 1,068 stalls will support residential, commercial, and transit needs.
• Transit center: $11 million is earmarked for a new transit hub, doubling bus capacity and improving connections.
• Pedestrian bridge: A $4 million bridge over SR 224 will enhance walkability and support a potential future gondola system.
• Total cost: Summit County’s contribution is estimated at $39 million, with $20 million allocated to parking alone.

What’s next: Weekly county council discussions will focus on hammering out funding specifics and finalizing partnership terms by the end of 2024. The next meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, Sept. 25. See the agenda here.