With the recent announcement of a National Hockey League team coming to Utah, and the Utah State Legislature authorizing Salt Lake City to increase sales tax to help finance a home for the team, the future of Abravanel Hall, the home of the Utah Symphony could be at stake. Named after longtime Utah Symphony music director Maurice Abravanel, it has been home to the Utah Symphony since the year 1979. In many ways, it is the center of the performing arts in the state of Utah. 

Besides costing the average Salt Lake City taxpayer $100 a year for 30 years, Ryan Smith's current plans could force a major renovation or even the destruction of this historic and beautiful building. The Utah Symphony would have no place to play, and the performing arts in Utah could come to a standstill—possibly ending the orchestra as we know it.

In only five years, Abravanel Hall will be eligible for protected status on the National Register of Historic Places.   Could the timing of this “improvement” project be intentional by the city and the legislators? Now is the time for, concerned citizens to petition our local leaders to protect Abravanel Hall and stop the destruction, and possible reconstruction, or the inappropriate renovation of this irreplaceable gem  Abravanel Hall can still exist with renovations in historic downtown Salt Lake City. Everyone can win if we are willing to compromise and develop the district in a reasonable way that does not affect the livelihood of members of the Utah Symphony or the quality of life in our state.