DAVIS COUNTY—It’s official – the 2034 Winter Olympics are returning to Utah, with Salt Lake City to play host to the games just as it did in 2002. Earlier this year, The Davis Journal contemplated what could happen if the Olympics came here, and now, we can say what will happen. No longer in the world of hypotheticals, big changes are coming in the next 10 years, which promise to fly by in the lead-up and preparations to host the world. So, in reality, what will the 2034 Winter Olympics hold for Davis County?

Unfortunately, as of this date, none of the 13 confirmed event venues are within Davis County, however many are within a short driving distance. Several events will take place in the heart of Downtown Salt Lake City, just a short 20 minutes drive from Bountiful. These include venues for medals ceremonies, concerts, even a skiing and snowboarding ramp. Events will also return to the Delta Center, The Maverik Center, The Olympic Oval, and many other familiar venues. 

One thing is for sure: the 2034 Olympics, just like those in 2002, will need plenty of volunteers to make sure things run smoothly. Who better to pitch in than those living in and around Salt Lake City? This puts Davis County in prime position to be a provider of some much-needed help in welcoming the world back to Utah. Volunteers in 2002 coordinating many things like transportation, venue maintenance, guest services and more.

Even though the games are 10 years out, the Utah Transit Authority (UTA) has already confirmed several projects which will support the games are already in the works, or underway. One of these is tied directly to Davis County. Dubbed the “Davis-to-SLC connector,” a new method of public transportation promises another way for Davis-ites to get to the venues in Salt Lake without having to worry about parking. 

Just like in 2002, another thing is guaranteed for the 2034 games: a small business boom. Not only will athletes and spectators be walking the business districts and downtown areas of many local Utah cities, but, they will also have the benefit of something they did not in 2002: Airbnb and VRBO. Between these two organizations, and the more formal hotel options, price, location, and a desire to be closer to the action or further away will all offer great opportunities to those who are involved. 

The world, and Utah, have changed drastically since 2002, and in the next 10 years, people can only speculate what the state will look like. Regardless, just like many of the places which play host to the games, the 2034 Winter Olympics will present Utah and her residents with many opportunities. There will certainly be more growth, likely a higher population, and many new sights across the Beehive State as it once more opens the doors to some of the best athletes the world has to offer.