Register Here on SEFW's Website
Entrances: https://townhallseattle.org/location-and-entrances/
Parking information: https://townhallseattle.org/parking/
Public Transit information: https://townhallseattle.org/public-transit/
Time: 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM
Cost: Forum Lecture Only - FREE to all attendees!
Forum Lecture + Reception* - $40.00
Forum Lecture + Reception* + "Friend of the Foundation" - $100
*The reception is a Pre-function Reception from 4:30 PM - 6:00 PM at Town Hall Seattle.
Preserving History Through Seismic Innovation: The Salt Lake Temple Renovation
Join us for an in-depth look at one of the most significant historic preservation and seismic retrofit projects in North America—the renovation of the historic Salt Lake Temple. Originally completed in 1893, the Temple has undergone several renovations throughout its history. In 2019, a comprehensive modernization and seismic strengthening program was announced to address aging infrastructure, enhance life safety, and improve the building’s resilience to future earthquakes while preserving its historic and architectural significace. This presentation will explore the innovative engineering solutions being implemented as part of the renovation, including state-of-the-art base isolation systems, post-tensioning of the stone masonry walls, and extensive structural reinforcement of the roof and supporting elements. Attendees will gain insight into the challenges of upgrading a complex historic structure in a high-seismic region while maintaining its original character and craftsmanship. Scheduled to reopen in early 2027, the Salt Lake Temple renovation serves as a remarkable example of how modern engineering can preserve history while preparing iconic structures for future generations. This session will provide valuable lessons for engineers, architects, and preservation professionals involved in the rehabilitation and seismic strengthening of existing buildings.
The presentation is free, open to the public, and will discuss the history of the project, design innovations utilized, and construction challenges met. Students, contractors, architects, and those interested in the phenomena of earthquakes are encouraged to attend to learn more about the Temple project prior to the reopening celebrations that will be held in Salt Lake for much of 2027.
Click here for information from Town Hall on Location, Public Transportation, Parking, and Accessibility. Another good, close parking option is located two blocks north of Town Hall at the Seattle Convention Center | ARCH, (entry at 1400 8th Avenue). Street parking is also available but can be limited. The light rail station at Benaroya Hall and many RapidRide bus stops are four blocks west of Town Hall Seattle.
