I've stop a few times on the way back from Dad's grave to see the progress on the renovation of the Salt Lake Temple. It's been so amazing to see all the changes. I pulled off the interstate just as the Pride parade was concluding. There were police officers directing traffic and many street were blocked. I decided to go for it and I managed to maneuver around all that. I found a parking place and enjoyed walking around Temple Square. The renovation is expected to be complete sometime next year with an open house beginning in April 2027.
There are several arbors with benches. The landscaping is all different. There appears to be mostly shrubs and perennial flowers. In the past there were a lot of annuals planted in all the flowers beds. But it looks so beautiful. There are also many new bronze statues. The temple itself has a new entrance and there is also a new visitors center. Of course the finest material have been used and it looks stunning. I can't wait to see it when it's completed!
Seismic Upgrades:
The temple is undergoing a significant seismic upgrade, including the installation of a base isolation system to protect it from earthquakes.
Reinforced concrete beams are being installed under the foundation using the "jack and bore" process.
The temple's spires are also being reinforced with steel, and steel cabling is being added to the interior of the towers.
Interior Enhancements:
The interior is being renovated to enhance the aesthetic appeal while respecting the temple's original design.
Workers are hand-painting ceilings and restoring gilded moldings.
Ornate wood paneling, beams, and stenciling are being restored and replicated.
A new underground addition to the temple will add 100,000 square feet.
There will be two baptistries instead of one, with the original cast-iron oxen being restored and placed in one of them.
The number of sealing rooms will increase to 22, and there will be five instruction rooms with increased seating space.
A new access tunnel under North Temple Street will connect the Conference Center parking area to the temple's entrance.
Plazas around Temple Square have been renovated, including the removal of the North Visitors' Center.
New elevators and accessibility features are being added throughout the building.
A special public open house and tour of the Salt Lake Temple will be held from April to October 2027, according to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
