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Work is progressing on Temple Square in June, focusing on the historic Salt Lake Temple and surrounding buildings. A significant milestone has been achieved in the seismic upgrade project. The temple's weight now rests on new footings and base isolators, which are designed to limit movement during an earthquake. The final stages of the seismic upgrade involve pulling post-tensioning cables with a pressure of half a million pounds from top to bottom and horizontally across walls to reinforce the structure.
The west baptismal font inside the Salt Lake Temple is in its finish work stage, with crews installing floor tiles around it. Restoration efforts continue on the northeast tower, where stones are being reinstalled in their original locations, some by hand and anchored securely with steel rods.
The Joseph Smith Memorial Building reopened select areas to the public on June 30, 2025, following a renovation period of two and a half years. The improvements include upgrades to mechanical systems with energy-efficient components and lighting controls in remodeled areas. Seismic enhancements were made to the roof tower, accessibility was improved, and additional elevators were installed.
Visitors can access the lobby and mezzanine levels once again; however, parts of the building remain under renovation. The Garden Restaurant also reopened today after previously being known as the Nauvoo Cafe. It features familiar menu items such as Lion House rolls, turkey pot pies, soups, salads, and made-to-order sandwiches.
The Joseph Smith Memorial Building welcomes visitors from Monday through Saturday between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., remaining closed on Sundays.
