Virtual Walkabout (www.downtownslc.org): Individual Post

The Salt Lake City Downtown Alliance is nonprofit organization committed to "build[ing] a dynamic and diverse community that is the regional center for culture, commerce, and entertainment." The organization's website certainly builds upon that mission statement. The site is organized and user friendly. The website emphasizes the uniqueness and diversity of downtown Salt Lake. It encourages tourism by providing information about restaurants, shopping centers, and other fun activities in the downtown area. The website advertises downtown Salt Lake as a desirable place to live and work. It provides a lengthy list of available and affordable housing options.


Besides promoting downtown activities, the website also emphasizes the role that the Downtown Alliance plays in improving the community. The organization is committed to listening and acting upon the input of city residents. According to the "Background" section of the website, The Downtown Alliance hosts monthly forums with downtown business owners and developers to discuss issues of development in the city. The Alliance also hosts monthly meetings with UTA and other transportation officials to talk about parking and transportation issues. The Alliance has been instrumental in improving taxi and TRAX services.


Like most websites of this nature, Downtown SLC does not talk about the less desirable parts of Salt Lake. This site is directed towards middle/upper class citizens. Many of the activities that the site advertises are expensive, thus many lower income citizens may be unable to participate.

Overall, the website that the Downtown Alliance has created is an effective tool for spreading their message and furthering their goals.