New resort proposal could reshape Jordanelle skyline

SkyRidge at Jordanelle where the new SkyRidge Lodge will be built. Photo: TownLift

The project, located in the Jordanelle Specially Planned Area (JSPA), aims to align with the vision for a year-round resort. However, it requires several deviations from standard county code, including a building height of 75 feet — more than double the typical 35-foot limit.

HEBER CITY, Utah — Wasatch County Council is set to decide on a luxury lodge development that would bring significant changes to the Jordanelle area.

The SkyRidge Lodge proposal, which includes a 61,344-square-foot lodge with 65 condominium units and various amenities, is seeking approval through a Legislative Development Agreement (LDA) due to its “unique nature.” The staff analysis for the project is recommending approval of the project with conditions.

“Staff has recommended that a legislative development agreement is the preferred way to address the unique issues associated with this proposal which otherwise would have required a code amendment, or denial of the project,” the staff report said.

The project, located in the Jordanelle Specially Planned Area (JSPA), aims to align with the vision for a year-round resort. However, it requires several deviations from standard county code, including a building height of 75 feet — more than double the typical 35-foot limit.

Other variances include off-site parking located a mile from the lodge and modified parking stall sizes. The development would also utilize shared parking with an adjacent clubhouse.

While County staff recommends approval, citing the project’s potential to advance the general welfare of Wasatch County, the proposal has raised concerns about increased density and traffic in the area.

A traffic study estimates the lodge would add approximately 29 extra trips per day, which engineers deemed not significant.

The County Council’s decision, slated for Thursday, September 12, will weigh the project’s alignment with the JSPA vision against its deviations from standard code. The use of an LDA gives the council greater discretion in this decision than typical development proposals.

The council must consider whether the benefits of the project, including enhanced amenities and potential economic impact, outweigh the proposed exceptions to current land use regulations.

A decision is expected September 12 at the county council meeting scheduled to begin at 6p.m. and includes an opportunity for public input.