"If you look at the things going on downtown … the reality is that there is a plan for downtown and we're filling in the pieces to make a constructive, vibrant downtown," the mayor said Wednesday.
Becker was one of several Salt Lake figures honored at the Downtown Alliance Achievement Awards. Award recipients were praised for their advocating or building the downtown environment.
While Becker, a recipient of the advocacy award, praised Salt Lake's recent economic progress, he said the heart of the growing area is City Creek, a 20-acre development owned by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, including a mix of shops, offices, condominiums and apartments.
"City Creek is the keystone development for Salt Lake City," Becker said. "It's ideal for what the city wants … and it sets a whole new standard."
The LDS Church was also given an advocacy award for its work on City Creek and other downtown projects. Gary Porter, secretary to the presiding bishopric of the church, said City Creek has the full support of church leaders.
