Temple Square Renovation Update: October 2025

The 270-foot-tall north tower crane that has operated on Temple Square for more than four years has been removed, signifying another milestone toward the completion of the Salt Lake Temple. 

The crane played an important role in lifting and placing large stones, structural components and mechanical systems during the renovation of the historic temple. 

Workers from Mountain Crane, subcontractors of Jacobsen Construction, completed the removal of the crane October 27–29, working throughout the night to ensure safety and allow for adequate space.

“Space is always the biggest problem,” said Jacobsen general foreman Steve Quintana, referring to the small construction area close to the temple.

The process was supported by city-approved lane restrictions and temporary street closures. 

On the first day, an 800-ton crane (taller than the north tower crane itself) was erected to assist in the removal of the north tower crane, which was carefully dismantled over two days. Elements of the north tower crane were loaded onto semitrucks for transport. On the final day, the 800-ton crane was dismantled and removed. 

The north tower crane has operated six days a week since it was first installed in August 2021. Most days, it ran for nearly 18 hours. Operating from early morning until late evening, the crane was managed by skilled operators.

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The crane can lift approximately 35,000 pounds at its base and 10,000 pounds at its tip, enabling crews to move heavy loads that would otherwise be impossible to position in the north addition of the temple.

Every operation involved a close connection between the crane operators and riggers — the crew members on the ground responsible for securing loads and providing visual guidance to the crane operators.

Crane riggers are the eyes and ears of the operator, and their direction must be perfect.

“When the cranes start to come down, this milestone is typically a sign that the heavy and hard-to-reach material is in place,” said Quintana. “It frees up area for more work to be completed.”

“I have never been on a project in my 32 years with Jacobsen that a tower crane has stood this long,” he added.

The south tower crane, the longest in operation on-site, will remain in place until spring 2026.

New Accessible Entrance for the Relief Society Building

Crews are constructing a new accessible entrance to the west side of the Relief Society Building, located on the north side of Temple Square. The work includes demolition of the old plant bed and stairs, installation of new stairs and an accessible ramp, updated lighting, irrigation and refreshed plantings. The project is expected to be completed by spring 2026.

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Visitors can access several areas on Temple Square as work on the historic temple moves closer to completion, including the Joseph Smith Memorial Building, the Salt Lake Tabernacle and the nearby Church History Museum and FamilySearch Library.

Latter-day Saints worship in temples for several reasons: to feel God’s love and peace, to learn more about God’s plan for His children and the gospel of Jesus Christ, to make promises with God and with one’s husband or wife, and to unite families in this life and the next through sacred ordinances.

For more information on the renovation and upcoming open house celebration, visit TempleSquare.org.