TOWER THEATRE PLANNING UPDATES
This page was last updated on June 8, 2026
Our goal is to update this page quarterly.
We extend our deep gratitude to all who have inquired about and continue to love the Tower. SLFS remains 100% committed to preserving this unique and wonderful cinematic gem.
THE VISION
RECENT HAPPENINGS
LATEST NEWS:
We’re thrilled to share that Salt Lake Film Society has submitted the initial concept drawings for the Tower Theatre renovation project to Salt Lake City Building Services for the required planning review.
This milestone represents an exciting — though very early — step in the long and thoughtful process of restoring and reimagining our beloved 1928 movie house.
Developed by the Tower’s talented architectural and design partners, these drawings reflect the project’s preliminary vision. They will continue to evolve as we incorporate community input, professional feedback, and sustainable design principles rooted in our environmental mission.
LATEST NEWS:
Salt Lake Film Society (SLFS) is taking an important step in the future of the historic Tower Theatre.
This spring we will begin preliminary facade deconstruction, a critical first step in understanding what remains of the original 1928 theater and a helping guide into its thoughtful renovation.
The facade deconstruction will be made possible by the generous donors at Alternative Visions Fund.
- Timing: Work is expected to begin by mid-summer, with actual dates to come on this website when we know them
- Expected Work Hours: 7 am to 5 pm, Monday through Saturday
- Construction Activity: Big-D Construction will carefully remove portions of the theater’s front facade
- Road and Alley Access: The alley/roadway next to the Tower Theatre will be temporarily closed during work hours and reopened after hours for normal use
- Daily Clean-Up: Crews will clear and clean the area each day before reopening to the public
- Construction Fence: Will be installed approximately 18 feet from the main entrance and will not impact the sidewalk or bike lane – pedestrian and cyclist access will remain open
OUR COMMITMENT TO YOU
We are committed to minimizing disruption and maintaining access to surrounding shops and restaurants throughout this process. We are coordinating closely to ensure the neighborhood remains safe, accessible and welcoming.
SLFS will also have a dedicated project ombudsman available to support neighbors and address and questions or concerns. That contact will be shared with everyone shortly.
ONGOING PROGRESS
This summer also marked steady progress throughout the schematic design phase of the Tower Theatre: Next 100 Years project. Our architectural and engineering partners have been working closely with SLFS leadership and consultants to refine concepts, sustainability goals, and community-driven priorities.
Highlights since November include:
- Salt Lake Film Society has submitted the initial concept drawings for the Tower Theatre renovation project to Salt Lake City Building Services for the required planning review.
- Advancement of schematic drawings, which will guide the next stage of design development in 2026.
- Continued Tower tours with philanthropists and foundation leaders, resulting in new early donor commitments.
- Ongoing collaboration with our architecture, engineering, and design partners, who remain on schedule to complete schematic work in 2026.
- Regular upkeep of the Tower’s exterior and surrounding property throughout the summer to maintain the building’s historic charm and neighborhood presence.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ)
THE TIMELINE
THE PROJECT HISTORY
THE VISIONING PROGRESS
