Nestled in West Valley City, the newly inaugurated Pioneer Crossing Regional Park is quickly becoming a beloved recreational destination. For individuals like Courtney Custer, who recently traded her adaptive bike for a kayak to explore the Jordan River flowing through the park, it represents newfound independence and accessibility. The park marks a significant milestone as the first in Salt Lake County to seamlessly integrate on-water and on-land experiences for everyone, regardless of physical ability. Custer’s effortless transition from the serene river waters to the park’s pathways, using the adaptive boat launch, exemplifies the park’s inclusive design and commitment to providing enriching experiences for all visitors.
The adaptive boat launch is a key feature, joining around 15 access points along the Jordan River water trail stretching from Saratoga Springs to North Salt Lake. It’s a cornerstone amenity within Pioneer Crossing Regional Park, strategically located east of the Utah Cultural Celebration Center and north of 3300 South. Currently, half of the planned 25-acre park is open to the public, inviting them to explore thoughtfully designed walking paths, relax on strategically placed benches, and enjoy dedicated recreational spaces including small playgrounds and an accessible fishing pier.
Martin Jensen, Salt Lake County Parks director, envisions further expansion of the park’s offerings as development progresses northward along the river. “As we continue to go farther north, there’ll be more of what you see here: more walking paths, more trees, more shade along the river,” Jensen explained, highlighting the park’s focus on “passive recreation.” This design philosophy emphasizes providing a tranquil environment for visitors to unwind and connect with nature, rather than hosting organized sports or structured activities. Pioneer Crossing Regional Park is intended as a community sanctuary, a place for individuals and families to freely enjoy outdoor recreation at their own pace.
The park’s creation is also a testament to community revitalization. Before its transformation, the area was marred by homeless encampments and accumulated litter. Jensen recounted past visits requiring police escorts, a stark contrast to the present reality. Now, Salt Lake County personnel ensure daily park upkeep and safety, further bolstered by a future West Valley City police building within the park grounds. “We’ve created a safe, welcoming place that is now wonderful, which not only provides access to the Jordan River itself, but more importantly, to our wonderful Jordan River Trail,” Jensen stated, underscoring the park’s role as a secure and inviting gateway to both water and trail adventures.
Funding for Pioneer Crossing Regional Park was secured through the county’s Zoo, Arts and Parks (ZAP) program back in 2016, with construction commencing in the spring of 2022. The Jordan River Commission, a key partner in the park’s development, sees the space as vital for restoring the river’s natural ecological functions. Executive Director Soren Simonsen emphasized this point, stating, “This park is the perfect example of some of those natural river functions being restored, and opening up opportunities for great recreation [options] that maybe are different than the active kinds of recreation that we participate in, [like] organized sports and other things.” The park represents a harmonious blend of ecological restoration and community recreation.
Adding historical depth to its appeal, Pioneer Crossing Regional Park sits on a site where early pioneers first traversed west of the Jordan River. Deputy Salt Lake County Mayor Erin Litvack highlighted this rich history during the park’s opening, celebrating the location’s past while embracing its recreational future. “The design of the park maintains the [area’s] natural character, while providing gathering spots, play elements along the trail playgrounds, multiuse trails, recreation and better access to the river,” Litvack noted, emphasizing the thoughtful integration of historical context with modern park amenities. West Valley City Mayor Karen Lang expressed enthusiasm for the enhanced river access, envisioning family paddling trips on the Jordan River, a recreational opportunity now readily available close to home. Pioneer Crossing Regional Park stands as a symbol of community progress, offering a safe, accessible, and historically significant space for recreation and enjoyment in West Valley City.
