Utah takes the next step toward the 2034 Olympics
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Happy Friday from #OneUtah, a weekly update from the office of Gov. Spencer J. Cox. Here’s your recap of what we did this week, what's on the horizon, and more.
** Formation of the Organizing Committee for the 2034 Olympic & Paralympic Winter Games
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With the successful conclusion of the Salt Lake City-Utah Committee for the Games' mission, we are excited to announce the next major step in our journey: the formation of the Organizing Committee for the 2034 Olympic & Paralympic Winter Games.
This marks a proud moment for Utah as we transition from our bid phase to preparing for a Games that will not only honor our Olympic legacy but also inspire the world and benefit every corner of our state. A heartfelt thank you to the mostly volunteer bid team for their tireless dedication and commitment.
Read more > ([link removed])
** Groundbreaking at the Point
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After nearly two years of planning and hard work with state agencies and private partners, The Point officially broke ground, kicking off what’s been called “the most consequential infill development in the country.” This is a huge step forward for a project that will bring tens of thousands of jobs, thousands of new homes and an incredible quality of life to the heart of Silicon Slopes.
The first phase will focus on key infrastructure, like Porter Rockwell Boulevard, a major transportation route connecting Bluffdale and Draper. The first buildings are expected to go up around 2026-2027.
More than just a ceremony, the groundbreaking is a sign of Utah’s commitment to planning for the future. By investing in infrastructure now, The Point will help address housing needs, create good jobs and support innovation. It’ll also offer new parks, open spaces and better transportation connections.
The Point is a perfect example of how Utah works together to tackle big challenges and build a bright future for the next generation of Utahns.
** Honoring Maj. Brent R. Taylor
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This past week, we gathered to honor the life and service of Maj. Brent R. Taylor, a hero who gave everything for our freedom. As we remembered Maj. Taylor, we were also reminded of the incredible sacrifices made by all of our veterans and their families. A special thank you to Jennie Taylor ([link removed]) , his Gold Star wife, for being with us to share in this meaningful moment.
Utah has always been a state that deeply respects its veterans, and this ceremony was a powerful reminder of the sacrifices that have shaped our state and nation. The Wreaths Across America event was a touching tribute to the fallen heroes whose stories continue to inspire future generations.
As we reflect on Maj. Taylor’s legacy, we also celebrate the work being done every day to support our veterans — from healthcare and education to housing and employment. We are committed to ensuring that our veterans not only receive the resources they need but that they are honored every day for their service.
Watch the video > ([link removed])
** Martha Made it!
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On Wednesday, December 11th, a statue of Utahn Dr. Martha Hughes Cannon was unveiled in the United States Capitol Building as part of the National Statuary Hall Collection.
Lt. Gov. Henderson led a delegation of state officials and spoke at the event saying, “As Martha takes her place in Emancipation Hall and becomes the fourteenth statue of a woman in the National Statuary Hall Collection, her story will be told to boys and girls, men and women from around the world who visit the seat of our free government. They will learn about the tiny woman from Utah who had a giant impact on the lives of so many people; an impact that is felt to this day.”
Watch the full ceremony > ([link removed])
** State Business in DC
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While in our nation’s capitol last week, Lt. Gov. Henderson also had a full schedule of meetings, working to advance the goals of our administration and the State of Utah. Her meetings included visits with the Department of Defense, members of Utah’s federal delegation, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the UK and Welsh governments and more.
** Interview with Jim Mattis 🇺🇸
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In a recent conversation at the Utah Governor’s Mansion, I had the privilege of sitting down with former Secretary of Defense Jim Mattis to discuss how America can lead globally while strengthening our foundations at home. As we explored ways to restore trust in our institutions, Jim shared an important insight: it all begins with building trust with one another—a powerful reminder that strong communities are the foundation of a strong nation. Watch clips of the conversation here ([link removed]) and here ([link removed]) .
** Governor’s Mansion Artist Awards
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This year’s awards celebrated the incredible talents of Utah’s artists during a memorable evening hosted by the Gov. and First Lady. Honorees included Dr. Ed Catmull, co-founder of Pixar Animation Studios, and The Lower Lights, a dynamic bluegrass and gospel band. The event was made possible by generous sponsors like AT&T, Chevron, and the Larry H. and Gail Miller Family Foundation, with proceeds supporting the Governor’s Mansion Foundation. Special thanks to PBS Utah for streaming the event live and to the Artist Awards Committee for their dedication in recognizing these exceptional individuals.
Watch the ceremony > ([link removed])
** Agency updates
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Rake Your Heart Out!
On Saturday, November 23, dozens of volunteers from Utah’s Department of Financial Institutions gathered to rake and clean up homes in Salt Lake County. “Being able to serve our community was a rewarding experience.”
Utah’s Treasures on Display
The Utah Division of Arts and Museums celebrated its 125th anniversary with a public exhibition at the Utah Valley University Museum of Art. The exhibition will be open through March 15, 2025. See more here > ([link removed])
Investing in Workplace Safety
Over $575,000 in funding was approved for the Utah Labor Commission to support critical programs such as statewide safety training, workshops and outreach initiatives and events to recognize achievements in workplace safety.
Small Farm Funding
The Utah Department of Agriculture and Food, along with its Division of Marketing and Economic Development, awarded $2.3 million to support small farms and food businesses statewide through the USDA Resilient Food Systems Infrastructure Program.
On the Job Hunt?
The Department of Workforce Services is hosting a statewide virtual job fair on Thursday, Jan. 9, from 10 AM to 1 PM. DWS hosts this event every other month. Learn more here > ([link removed]〈=en-US)
Utah’s Innovation Ecosystems
Commissioned by the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity and the Utah Innovation Lab, a new report from the Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute and EDCUtah highlights key drivers of Utah’s innovation success and future opportunities. Read more > ([link removed])
Public School Funding
The Utah School and Institutional Trust Lands Administration recently distributed $117.9 million to its 12 beneficiaries, with over $111.3 million allocated to public schools. Local School Community Councils, composed of parents, teachers and administrators, will manage the funds.
Trails for Miles
The Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation completed over 500 miles of trail work and 126 projects this year, including vegetation removal, tread repair and clearing hazardous trees.
** 🗞️ ICYMI
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🤠 Half of this year’s Wrangler National Finals Rodeo world champions came from the Utah High School Rodeo Association. Read more > ([link removed])
🪖 The Utah National Guard will add an infantry battalion, increasing its force by 762 soldiers by 2028. Read more > ([link removed])
⚡️ Supreme Court hears critical case for advancing energy projects in Utah and nationwide. Read more > ([link removed])
🌍 Gov. Cox joined 32 governors in urging President Biden to work with President Xi to finalize the adoptions of hundreds of children waiting to join American families. Read more > ([link removed])
📡 Utah Rep. Mike Kennedy was appointed to the House Natural Resources and Science, Space & Technology Committees. Read more > ([link removed])
🏛️ Utah Congresswoman Celeste Maloy selected to serve on the House Committee on Appropriations. Read more > ([link removed])
🏡 Utah is building 35,000 new starter homes by 2028. Read more > ([link removed])
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