Case Studies 

Please note that these Hall of Shame nominations were written in a moment in time (most over a decade ago) and likely have since changed or even been transformed. If the above entry is now great, or still not so great, go ahead and comment below on how it has evolved or nominate it as a great place.

*Nominee 

The Gallivan Center

Salt Lake City

UT

USA

Contributed by 
John Pace
Project for Public Spaces
 on 
June 21, 2005
December 14, 2017

A public plaza in the downtown Central Business District.

What makes it Great?

Why it doesn't work?

Gallivan Center is a 5-acre park with public art, skating rink, performance stage and a variety of places to sit and eat, think, people watch, enjoy a concert, watch skaters. It is a delightful respite in the heart of the city. It provides mid block accesses through SLC's 10 acre blocks and is ADA accessible.

Access & Linkages

The Gallivan Center is accessible from the entire City through a variety of types of approaches, and from all directions. It has a light rail transit stop to the west, and bus stops on three sides. Inviting pedestrian access is available; walkways and pedestrian surfaces are 12"x12" granite and precast pavers.

Comfort & Image

The space is welcoming from the perimeter and within. There is a good mix of people, gender and socio-economic groups. Maintenance and security staffs are on site. Motorized vehicles are not permitted, although it is built over a three level, 2000-car parking structure. There are attractive changes of levels in the surface, and it is fully ADA accessible. The site is used for various concerts, performances, private parties, informal gathering and special events. It is the focus of First Night celebrations.

Uses & Activities

Very well used. A grassy plot, the site for a proposed restaurant, is currently used for public markets, concert viewing, sunning and picnics. During the 2002 Winter Olympics, Budweiser used this entire site as their center of activity.

Sociability

I do meet my friends here, as do others. I frequently choose to dine at a restaurant that overlooks and spills out into the plaza. People come from various parts of the city to show off the plaza and to participate in the events.

How Light?

How Quick?

How Cheap?

History & Background

Related Links & Sources

The Gallivan Center
The Gallivan Center
The Gallivan Center
The Gallivan Center
The Gallivan Center
The Gallivan Center
The Gallivan Center
The Gallivan Center

*Please note that these Hall of Shame nominations were written in a moment in time (most over a decade ago) and likely have since changed or even been transformed. If the above entry is now great, or still not so great, go ahead and comment below on how it has evolved or nominate it as a great place.

NOMINATE A PLACE

Corrections or additions? Email info@pps.org
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