Point of the Mountain State Land Authority seeks development partner to build Utah’s innovation community

The Point of the Mountain State Land Authority (Land Authority) approved the issuance of a request for qualifications today to initiate the solicitation process for selecting master development partner(s) for The Point. Widely recognized as one of the most important economic opportunities in state history, The Point consists of 600 acres of state-owned land that will foster innovation and technological advancement, provide parks and open space, support economic growth and enhance Utahns’ quality of life. Plans for the site include input from over 10,000 Utahns. 

“We are conducting an open and transparent competitive process to select development partners who have demonstrated success in building large-scale, sustainable communities,” said Alan Matheson, The Point executive director. “We are looking for the industry’s best and brightest to partner with us in this important endeavor.”

The Land Authority will undergo a competitive solicitation process in two stages. The first stage will include a thorough evaluation of all applicants for their qualifications and relevant experience. The most qualified applicants will proceed to the second stage where finalists will be asked to submit additional proposals. 

“We see ourselves as trusted stewards of the public’s investment and will be prudent in our approach to selecting development partners who reflect Utah values,” said state Rep. Lowry Snow, Land Authority co-chair. “Every partner of The Point will need to support the public interest and ensure Utahns receive a significant return on their investment.” 

Proposals will be objectively evaluated with an aim to promote the public interest and achieve the public’s vision. The Point’s Framework Plan will guide future development at The Point while providing built-in flexibility to respond to changing conditions. The plan identifies an Innovation District to support advanced research and the creation of tens of thousands of high-paying jobs, a world-class transportation system that prioritizes pedestrians and cyclists, an extensive regional parks and trails network, and a balanced mix of land uses that provide retail, entertainment and housing choices. 

“The Point is at the epicenter of Utah’s population and job growth, particularly in the high-tech industry,” said Utah Lieutenant Governor Deidre Henderson, Land Authority co-chair. “I am confident that with the right development partners, we will build an accessible and thriving community of which all Utahns can be proud.”

After a months-long competitive process, the final selection of development partner(s) for phase one is anticipated in the summer of 2022. Site preparation will begin shortly thereafter. Implementation of phase one, comprising 72 acres near the center of the site, is anticipated to begin in 2023. For more information, visit thepointutah.org/opportunities.