Salt Lake Temple Scaffolding Removed
The Salt Lake Temple's scaffolding is being removed post-snowstorm for the first time since renovation started, with dismantling continuing through mid-March 2026. The renovation progress video gained 878 likes as viewers got their first clear look at the restored structure. This marks a major milestone in one of the most significant religious building renovations in recent years.
The massive renovation project for the Salt Lake Temple was first announced in April 2019 and began on December 29, 2019. Initially planned to last four years, the completion date has been extended to 2026 due to challenges and additions to the project's scope. A primary focus of the renovation is a comprehensive seismic retrofitting designed to help the 19th-century structure withstand a major earthquake. This includes the installation of a base isolation system under the foundation, which will allow the entire temple to move up to five feet in any direction to absorb seismic shockwaves. The project's timeline was impacted by a 5.7 magnitude earthquake in March 2020, which notably dislodged the trumpet from the iconic Angel Moroni statue atop the temple's highest spire. This event occurred early in the renovation process, and the statue itself was temporarily removed for repairs. Beyond the structural work, the renovation involves a complete overhaul of the temple's aging mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems. The north annex, an addition from the 1960s, was demolished and is being rebuilt to better align with the temple's historic architecture. Inside, the temple's capacity will be significantly increased. The plans include adding two new instruction rooms, ten more sealing rooms (bringing the total to 23), and a second baptistry. The presentation of the endowment ceremony will also change from a live, room-to-room progression to single-room video presentations available in over 90 languages. The renovation extends to the surrounding Temple Square. The South Visitors' Center was demolished and will be replaced by two smaller visitor pavilions to provide clearer views of the temple. Portions of the historic wall around the square are also being replaced with ornamental fencing to create a more open and accessible feel.
