Innovative and green: The Point is the first 15-minute city in the US

The new urban plan for Utah explores an innovative concept of urban agglomeration with the aim of improving public welfare and becoming a model for the design of new cities in the future.

The Point is a 242-hectare city that will be located near Utah’s capital of Salt Lake City: amidst mountains and desert expanses, it will redevelop the existing Utah State Prison and will be the first 15-minute city in America, providing work, residential, public and recreational space for nearly 15,000 people. 

The 15-minute city is a concept being tested internationally that enables inhabitants to meet their daily needs by walking or cycling, for an inclusive urban transformation that brings people to the centre. The Point’s plan supports job generation, a transport system that gives priority to pedestrians and cyclists, an extensive park system and a balanced land use that will allow commercial, residential and entertainment activities to be managed in the same urban core. 

The Point will reflect citizens’ needs and priorities, presenting itself as one of the best economic opportunities in the country’s history. Vehicle traffic will be reduced, promoting walking, cycling and public transport, and there will be plenty of outdoor areas such as playgrounds, dog parks and community meeting areas. 

A special focus will be on sustainability: the plan aims to reduce polluting emissions and waste of water and energy by using the site’s natural geothermal resources, shaping a net-zero carbon emissions city.