International Seminar on Urban Form 2020, The University of Utah - P1 Plenary and Keynotes

Keynote and Plenary: Welcome to Salt Lake!
06:00 - 07:45 (MDT)
Tuesday, 1 September 2020
Chaired By Prof. Brenda Scheer (United States) - University of Utah, Prof. Wendy McClure (United States) - University of Idaho
Venue: Congress Zoom,Temple Square

Salt Lake City Morphology: the Mormon Tradition of City Building
by Prof. Brenda Scheer - University of Utah

ABSTRACT
The history of Salt Lake City’s planning begins with the well known story of the grid layout by Brigham Young, but subsequent development was both sustained and damaged by the persistence of the initial plan. This persistence, which is commonly observed in urban morphology, has predictable effects on the urban environment that can be useful for understanding development patterns, history, and special conditions that arise.
This paper explores the story of this unique and unusual plan and analyzes its subsequent impact on development of the city, through the lens of urban morphology. . Here, the method is used to understand the wide-ranging impact of the idealistic Plat of Zion on the practical development of the actual city.
The Plat of Zion conception drove the initial layout of Salt Lake and that initial layout has greatly affected the physical environment of the city since. Modern day planners frequently bemoan the unusual dimensions, particularly block size and street width. This paper examines the impact that this grid has had on subsequent development patterns up to the present day. This analysis uncovers many development patterns that have had a negative impact in creating an imageable and practical city. Its initial dimensions and the configuration of lots and streets have led to a chaotic pattern of development despite the uniformity of the grid itself. On the other hand, the uniqueness of the plan also provides some opportunities to celebrate history and create interesting and unexpected urban places.

SPEAKER
Brenda Case Scheer, is professor emeritus at the University of Utah College of Architecture + Planning. She was dean of the college for 11 years, following a successful architecture practice and academic career. Brenda has more than 32 papers and book chapters, 32 research grants, as well 3 books. Her two most important research areas are urban morphology theory and aesthetic regulation of the environment. Her most recent book is The Evolution of Urban Form: Typology for Planners and Architects
She is a Fellow of the American Institute of Architects and a Fellow of the American Institute of Certified Planners.

The Future of City Building in Salt Lake City by Mr. Nick Norris

ABSTRACT
Salt Lake City is experiencing one of its largest development booms in its history. Rapid growth, increasing housing costs, increased traffic, and demand for amenities and resources are placing the city at a major decision point. The choosen path will impact future generations. Hear how the city’s Planning Division anticipates a paradigm shift in the city to so that growth contributes to city goals.

SPEAKER
Nick Norris is the Planning Director for the Salt Lake City. He is passionate about the City and is motivated to improve the quality of life for all of its citizens. Nick has been involved in a variety of planning activities in his career, including a strategic and measured update to the Salt Lake City zoning ordinance, working on people oriented development, preservation of sensitive lands and historic buildings, revamping the city’s master plan program, and leading an amazing team. He is a member of the American Institute of Certified Planners. and graduate from the University of Utah.