HISTORY
The Ballpark neighborhood has a rich history that dates back to the early 1900s. The nickname "The People's Freeway" was coined in the 1960s by community activists and leaders who were opposed to plans to route the new interstate highway through the heart of Salt Lake City's downtown area. They argued that the freeway would destroy many of the historic buildings and homes in the area, displace thousands of residents, and further divide the city along racial and economic lines. This area became known as the "People's Freeway" in recognition of the community's efforts to preserve their homes, businesses, and way of life.​
Here is a brief overview of the neighborhood's history from 1900 until the present day.
1900s-1910s
The Ballpark neighborhood was predominantly a residential area during this time, with a mix of single-family homes, apartments, and boarding houses. It had a diverse population, including Irish, Italian, Greek, and Japanese immigrants, as well as African Americans.
The neighborhood began to change in the 1920s and 1930s as businesses, including auto repair shops and other service-oriented establishments, started to move in. Many of the working-class families who had lived in the area moved out, and the neighborhood became home to more blue-collar workers, including auto mechanics and other service professionals.
1920s-1930s
1940s-1950s
During World War II, the neighborhood saw an influx of military personnel and defense workers, which led to a construction boom in the area. Many of the homes were converted into apartments to accommodate the growing population.​
1960s-1970s
In the 1960s and 1970s, the Ballpark neighborhood began to experience economic decline, and many of the businesses closed or relocated. The area became known for crime and poverty as white, middle-class families moved out of the area and it became home to a large African American population.
1980s-1990s
In the 1980s and 1990s, the neighborhood saw a resurgence as artists and entrepreneurs moved in, attracted by the area's affordable rent and proximity to downtown Salt Lake City. The area became known as a hub for creative and alternative culture, and the demographic makeup of the area became more diverse, with a mix of white, African American, Hispanic, and Asian residents.
HOW WE'RE SHAPING OUR FUTURE TODAY
Today, the Ballpark neighborhood is a vibrant and diverse area, with a mix of residential, commercial, and industrial spaces. The neighborhood is home to a variety of businesses, including breweries, restaurants, and art galleries with a mix of residents from different ethnic and socio-economic backgrounds.
