Frequently Asked Questions

Midvale's current center, Copperview Recreation, is one of the county's oldest fitness facilities, and while it has served us well, it is nearing the end of its life. A new modern recreation center would provide the City with a community pool and enhanced recreational facilities and programming to support residents of all ages and abilities throughout the community. 

The maximum amount of the proposed Midvale Recreation Bond is $11.2 million and will be repaid within 30 years. If Midvale residents approve the recreation bond, the estimated property tax increase is expected to be $48.80 per year for the average primary residence in Midvale City valued at $438,000 and $88.47 for a business or secondary residence of the same value. 

Estimated Property Tax Increase

Midvale has been evaluating ways to build a new recreation center for several years. Salt Lake County Zoo, Arts & Parks is the most likely funding source for this project. If the City is not awarded the ZAP grant, Midvale will look into alternative funding sources and explore other ways to increase recreation opportunities in the city.

The path projects that are included in this bond proposal already have matching federal funds. If the bond is approved, the City can move forward with these projects. Approving the bond does not guarantee that the City will receive a new recreation center, but it will get us one step closer by helping to strengthen our application for Salt Lake County Zoo, Arts & Parks or other matching funds.

Yes, while designs have not been completed, four path projects have been identified for the RAISE Grant and matching bond funding: 

• Center Street protected bike lane from Jordan River Parkway to 7800 South
• Fort Union TRAX station to Maple Street Multi-Use Path
• 700 W/Main Street/Holden Street bike lane extending from the northern city boundary to Center Street
• Cottonwood Street buffered bike lane

Both projects included in the bond will increase wellness opportunities and help Midvale take a more comprehensive approach to recreation in the city. Additionally, because the process of placing a bond on the ballot is complex, the city is able to maximize administrative resources by combining the two like-projects into a single bond.

Midvale will not be guaranteed a recreation center until its construction cost is fully funded. If residents approve the recreation bond, Midvale will seek funding from potential partners for the balance of the cost to construct the recreation center. The process of applying for the funding may take considerable time, making 2025 the earliest that the necessary funding can be secured.

While the selection of the site for a new recreation center will be determined by the County’s master planning process, Midvale City is suggesting Union Park (which is owned and operated by Salt Lake County) as a preferred site. The park is an ideal location because the County already owns the land which gives them significant cost savings. The park is also accessible from various neighborhoods throughout the city as well as our schools.  

While Midvale City residents can use any County-run recreation facility, a new centrally located center would provide easy-to-access recreation and fitness opportunities for Midvale residents of all ages throughout the city and build a stronger sense of community. 

Salt Lake County would operate a new recreation center. Like other county-run centers fees are determined by age group and the amenities offered at each center and can range between $4.50 and $8. Discounted fees are offered for seniors, individuals with disabilities and low-income households. More information about fees can be found here.  

Remodeling opportunities are limited for Copperview Recreation Center due to the age of the facility and a decrease in nearby space created with the expansion of I-15.

Unfortunately, there are likely not enough financial resources within the County or City to maintain, operate and staff multiple facilities within the City. Additionally, Midvale is more likely to receive funding for one facility that meets multiple community needs and enables multi-generational use rather than smaller facilities that offer fewer recreation opportunities.

Copperview Recreation Center is nearing the end of its life, meaning that the cost of operation and maintenance is not sustainable long term. Additionally, Salt Lake County is unlikely to operate two recreation centers in the same small city due to the overall cost and staffing limitations. If the bond is approved and Midvale City is selected by Salt Lake County Zoo, Arts and Parks to receive a new recreation center, Copperview would stop operating as a recreation facility. The City is supportive of and will advocate for the site, which is owned by Salt Lake County, to continue to be used for civic or recreational use.