Sit-down restaurants key in economic development efforts

Eagle Mountain City has experienced rapid population growth in recent years and, as a result, many residents have expressed a strong desire for more sit-down restaurants in the community.

Understanding this demand, the City has made attracting new and unique dining establishments a key priority, pursuing solutions to make Eagle Mountain a destination for a diverse array of restaurants.

Economic Development Director Evan Berrett emphasizes that the City is taking a proactive approach to fostering an environment where restaurants can thrive.

“We know that our residents want more sit-down dining options, and we are working diligently to make Eagle Mountain an attractive place for restaurant owners and chefs,” says Berrett. “While state restrictions limit certain types of development incentives, we’ve identified other meaningful ways to support the growth of our restaurant scene.”

One of the key steps Eagle Mountain has taken is identifying sit-down restaurants as a targeted retail category for economic development efforts. Recognizing the barriers that can prevent new businesses from opening, the City has explored alternative ways to lower costs and encourage investment.

A recent example of this commitment is the City’s approval of a temporary partial suspension of its transportation impact fee. This fee had been identified as a hurdle to new development, and its temporary reduction is expected to ease the financial burden on businesses looking to establish themselves in Eagle Mountain.

Additionally, as part of the City’s Downtown Master Plan, Eagle Mountain acquired 21 acres of land, with plans to dedicate approximately one-third of that property to new commercial development, particularly restaurants.

Since the City owns the land, officials will have more flexibility in providing affordable space for restaurants to open and succeed, something that can be a game-changer for attracting the types of dining options residents have been asking for.

“Having City-owned land gives us a rare opportunity to directly influence how development takes shape,” Berrett said. “We can work strategically to attract the right types of businesses and create a downtown environment that residents will love.”

Beyond the downtown area, new retail centers are expected to be announced soon, which will provide further opportunities for restaurants to build or lease space in Eagle Mountain. These developments will open doors for a wider variety of dining establishments to enter the market and serve the growing population.

In addition to making space available, Eagle Mountain is engaged in broader efforts to create an environment where restaurants can succeed. The City has focused on job growth and tourism initiatives, both of which contribute to a stronger customer base for dining establishments.

A growing job market means more people working—and eating—within the city, while increased tourism brings visitors who are looking for dining experiences during their stay.

“We are committed to making Eagle Mountain a place where restaurants not only open but thrive for years to come,” Berrett said. “We want to attract chefs and entrepreneurs who are looking for a community that supports unique dining experiences.”

As Eagle Mountain continues to expand, the City remains dedicated to ensuring that dining options grow along with it.

While there are challenges to overcome, the efforts being made today are setting the stage for future restaurant openings in the community.