Transmittal - 11/22/2023
REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY of SALT LAKE CITY
SALT LAKE CITY CORPORATION
451 SOUTH STATE STREET, ROOM 118 WWW.SLC.GOV · WWW.SLCRDA.COM
P.O. BOX 145518, SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH 84114-5518 TEL 801-535-7240 · FAX 801-535-7245
MAYOR ERIN MENDENHALL
Executive Director
DANNY WALZ
Director
STAFF MEMO
DATE: November 22, 2023
PREPARED BY: Austin Taylor, Project Manager
RE: RDA Loan: The Front HQ
REQUESTED ACTION: Consider a $2m RDA loan application from Rocky Ventures for The Front
HQ in the State Street Project Area
POLICY ITEM: RDA Loan
BUDGET IMPACTS: $2m from State Street Project Area funds
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY/BACKGROUND
The Front, located at 1470 S 400 W, is a climbing gym located within the Redevelopment Agency’s
State Street project area. The Front is working to expand its gym by remodeling the existing structure
and adaptively reusing an adjacent vacant warehouse, combining two buildings into one single facility
that will offer approximately 70,000 square feet of space. This expansion project will add climbing
walls, fitness studios, bathrooms and showers, a staff break room, storage space, and various
mechanical, electrical, and fire suppression systems. The project has already begun construction; the
owner is paying for the project with the business’s cash reserves. The RDA loan would allow the
owner to complete the project quicker and begin offering expanded services sooner.
The Front’s owner, Rocky Ventures (“Applicant”), is requesting a $2,000,000 RDA loan (40% loan to
hard cost) for Phases I-III of its four-phase expansion project. Rocky Ventures is proposing a 3-year
term with a 20-year amortization schedule, which fits within the RDA loan policy. The project would
require two waivers from the RDA Board for aspects of the project that do not follow RDA policy: one
waiver from the Sustainable Development Policy that prohibits on-site natural gas combustion, and a
second waiver from the Revolving Loan Fund Policy that requires projects receiving primary loans to
meet six or more Public Benefit Criteria. RDA staff believes that the project meets five of the six
required Public Benefit Criteria.
APPLICANT INFORMATION
The Front is a climbing gym owned by Rocky Ventures, an S Corp 100% owned by Dustin Buckthal.
The Front was founded in 1989 in Sandy, Utah and—after being acquired by a new owner—moved to
its current location in 1998. Current owner Dustin Buckthal purchased The Front in 2005. In 2016, The
Front built its current building, which features 60-foot climbing walls, bouldering walls, fitness rooms,
saunas, a climbing retail shop, restaurant, and more. The Front now operates facilities in three
locations: Salt Lake City (opened at its current location in 1998), Ogden (opened in 2010), and
Millcreek (opened in 2020). At its Salt Lake City location, The Front operates a climbing gym, small
climbing-focused retail store, café, fitness studios, weightlifting area, and ongoing classes, and it hosts
competitions and community events throughout the year.
Rocky Ventures received a $350,000 EDLF loan from Salt Lake City Economic Development for its
2016 new building project and is current on its debt service obligations.
FUNDING REQUEST
The Applicant is requesting a $2 million loan with a 3-year term and 20-year amortization schedule
through the RDA Loan Program to pay for Phases I-III of its 4-phase expansion project.
The Front explains its four-phase expansion project as follows:
• Phase 1, started March 2023, estimated completion November 2023: additional entry to
facility, addition of fitness class studios, gender-neutral bathrooms and showers, and
temporary climbing training areas, replacement of mechanical and electrical systems,
addition of large windows.
• Phase 2, November 2023 to February 2024: removal of buildouts and addition of climbing
walls, addition of large windows, connection of 1420 and 1450 [400 West] buildings,
replacement of mechanical and electricals, addition of fire suppression system, addition of
staff break room.
• Phase 3, March 2024 to May 2024: addition of fire suppression system, replacement of
electrical and mechanical system, connection of direct courtyard access, addition of gender-
neutral bathrooms.
• (NOT IN SCOPE OF RDA LOAN) Phase 4, June 2024 to June 2025: raising building to
60ft, adding additional space for weights and cardio equipment, addition of yoga facilities,
addition of World Cup and Olympic style route and bouldering walls for athlete training
and hosting international competitions, replacement of mechanical and electrical systems.
Primary Financing
The Applicant is requesting primary financing through the RDA because bank loans have been
difficult to get due to recent nationwide credit tightening, especially in “opportunistic” investment
types. Banks are also wanting to refinance the entire four-building property into one large permanent
loan. Doing so would drastically increase The Front’s debt service payments due to recent interest rate
hikes. The Applicant has provided documentation verifying that the project’s ability to secure
traditional financing is limited.
RDA policy allows the RDA to provide primary financing if the project includes at least six of the
following Public Benefit Criteria: Sustainability, Public Amenities, Adaptive Reuse, Historic
Preservation, Permanent Job Creation/Retention, Architecture/Urban Design, Transit Alternatives,
Economic Impact, and Affordable Housing. RDA staff believes this project meets five of the Public
Benefit Criteria (Public Amenities, Adaptive Reuse, Permanent Job Creation, Transit Alternatives, and
Economic Impact), and that it is close to meeting another two criteria but cannot because of factors
specific to the project (as discussed in Section V below).
Loan Terms
Pursuant to RDA Loan Program Policy (“Policy”), the project is eligible for a 3-year term with a 20-
year amortization period. Based on the Policy, the project qualifies for a 5.10% interest rate, calculated
by subtracting 50 basis points for each qualifying Public Benefit from the RDA Loan Program Base
Rate as follows:
RDA Loan Program Base Rate
(U.S. Treasury Yield plus 3%)
7.60%
Public Benefit Interest Rate
Reduction1:
• Public Amenities2
• Adaptive Reuse3
• Permanent Job Creation4
• Transit Alternatives5
• Economic Impact6
-0.5%
-0.5%
-0.5%
-0.5%
-0.5%
Final Interest Rate7 5.10%
1To be eligible for interest rate reductions, the project will be required to meet the
criteria outlined in Section V. Maximum interest rate reduction of 250 basis points.
2Project will provide significant public art amenity and meet RDA public art policy by
spending 1.5% of RDA loan value on art
3Project will repurpose existing warehouse buildings
4Expansion will create 40 permanent jobs
5Project will provide showers, lockers, bike storage, and a dedicated car-sharing
parking space
6Project will prioritize space for locally-owned business
7The interest rate provided is an estimate. The final interest rate will be based on the 3-
year U.S. Treasury Yield Curve Rate, as determined by the term of the loan, at loan
closing.
Refer to Attachment A: Loan Term Sheet for additional detail on proposed loan terms and conditions.
FINANCIAL OVERVIEW
Sources
RDA Loan $2,000,000 40%
Equity Contribution
$3,000,000 60%
Total Sources $5,000,000 100%
Uses
Hard and Soft Construction
Costs $5,000,000
100%
Total Uses $5,000,000 100%
POLICY ALIGNMENT: RDA LOAN PROGRAM
Waivers
This loan request mostly aligns with RDA Loan Program Policy (“Program”), as adopted by the RDA
Board of Directors; however, it will require waivers for two exceptions:
• Exception from RDA Sustainable Development Policy. This policy requires (1) projects
that receive more than $200,000 in RDA funding to achieve an Energy Use Intensity value
corresponding with a “Designed to Earn the ENERGY STAR” score of 90 or higher, and
(2) projects that receive more than $900,000 in RDA funding to operate solely on electric
power—not fossil fuels such as natural gas. An exception from these threshold
requirements would be required for this project for the following reasons:
o Fitness Centers/Health Clubs/Gyms are a recognized property type in the ENERGY
STAR system, but they are not eligible to receive an ENERGY STAR score. This is
because ENERGY STAR scores are calculated by comparing a project’s energy use
to a nationally representative data set of similar facilities, and this information is not
available for fitness centers/health clubs/gyms.
o The Front’s expansion project will include natural gas-powered heating systems
because, as a renovation and adaptive reuse project with ceiling heights over 60 feet,
the facility cannot be efficiently heated with electricity alone.
• Exception from the Loan Policy requirement of meeting six Public Benefit Criteria to
qualify for primary financing. The project meets five Public Benefit Criteria. It is unable to
meet Sustainability for the reasons stated above, but the project otherwise demonstrates a
commitment to sustainable building design and operation. The project is also unable to
meet Architecture and Urban Design because construction has begun and there is no
opportunity for the required design review, but the project uses high quality, lasting
materials and enhances the public realm. The five qualifying and two additional public
benefit criteria are discussed in the Public Benefit Analysis below.
Public Benefit Analysis
RDA staff believes this project meets the following five Public Benefit Criteria:
• Public Amenities
o RDA Policy: The project includes one of the following public amenities that
reinforces neighborhood character and scale:
▪ A significant open space or other publicly accessible amenity, or
▪ A significant public art amenity.
o Staff Analysis: The Front has committed to providing a significant public art
amenity on the exterior of the buildings. Pursuant to the RDA Art policy, an
applicant meets the criteria for this public benefit criteria if 1.5% of the RDA
contribution ($30,000) goes towards the installation of art onsite.
• Adaptive Reuse
o RDA Policy: The project will preserve or repurpose a building through the
conversion of existing structures into new land uses that contribute positively to its
surrounding neighborhood.
o Staff Analysis: The Front’s Phase I-III expansion repurposes two existing cinder
block warehouse buildings along 400 West, integrating them with the existing
facility and resulting in a positive contribution to the surrounding neighborhood.
• Permanent Job Creation
o RDA Policy: The project will attract employers as permanent occupants that provide
or retain jobs at or above a living wage. Project will create or retain at least one job
per $50,000 receive in program funding. Jobs must be projected to pay a living
wage of at least $15.00 per hour to qualify.
o Staff Analysis: The Front’s expansion is expected to create opportunities for
approximately 30-40 new jobs, all starting at $15 per hour or higher. 40 new jobs
qualifies the project for $2,000,000 in funding.
• Transit Alternatives
o RDA Policy: The project meets one of the following standards:
▪ Includes a car sharing, bike sharing, or transit pass program that is widely
available to employees/residents, or
▪ Is a commercial project that includes employee shower, locker, and bicycle
facilities.
o Staff Analysis: The project will add employee showers, lockers, and indoor bicycle
parking. The project will also incentivize car share with a dedicated parking stall.
• Economic Impact
o RDA Policy: The project will catalyze economic impacts through one of the
following:
▪ The project will remove blight through the rehabilitation/replacement of a
vacant and distressed building, or construct a new building on vacant and
distressed buildings, or construct a new building on vacant and underutilized
land, or
▪ The project will provide essential services that are currently lacking in the
neighborhood.
▪ The project will prioritize space for locally owned businesses.
o Staff Analysis: The project will rehabilitate two older warehouse buildings and
dedicate 100% of the space to locally owned business operations. The expansion is
projected to directly increase property valuation by $5 million as well as increase
the valuation of the surrounding properties by enhancing existing property and
increasing foot traffic which could reduce crime. Projected revenue increase of $25
million over 5 years is projected to generate $2 million in local and state sales tax.
In addition, RDA staff believes this project is close to meeting two additional Public Benefit Criteria
but cannot because of factors specific to the project:
• Sustainability – Not met; unique circumstances associated with facility type
o RDA Policy: The project meets the RDA Sustainable Development Policy by
avoiding the use of on-site fossil fuel consumption and achieving an Energy Use
Intensity value corresponding with a Designed to Earn the ENERGY STAR score of
90 or greater.
o Staff Analysis: The Front is committed to integrating sustainable design and
building operation principles into its project. The Front sources 100% of its
electricity from renewable sources through a rooftop solar array and the Rocky
Mountain Power Blue Sky program. The Front’s expansion project is designed to
result in a 24% decrease in electricity consumption, 31% decrease in electric peak,
3% decrease in gas consumption, and 21% decrease in utility costs compared to a
building built to code. However, this project will be reusing and installing new
natural gas heating systems due to the owner’s assessment that electric heating
systems cannot efficiently heat this project because it is a renovation/adaptive reuse
project and the facility’s ceiling heights are unusually tall. The project is also unable
to calculate a Designed to Earn the ENERGY STAR score because energy use
comparison data is limited for fitness/centers/health clubs/gyms.
• Architecture and Urban Design – Not met; construction has already started
o RDA Policy: The project will participate in a more thorough design review allowing
the further refinement of design. Design review will promote developments that are
constructed with high-quality materials, respond to the surrounding context, and
enhance the public realm.
o Staff Analysis: The design uses high-quality and lasting materials such as masonry,
large windows, and Type II non-combustible construction. The project responds to
the surrounding context by planting a landscape buffer between I-15 and the
building, acting as a sound barrier to I-15, frames east-facing mountain views with
large second-story windows in the new fitness studio, and turns part of an existing
parking lot into an outdoor plaza space. The project enhances the public realm by
punching street-facing windows into existing masonry walls. However, the
renovation project has already been designed and is under construction so there is
no opportunity for RDA to conduct a design review nor provide input on the design.
POLICY ALIGNMENT: STATE STREET CRA PLAN
The Project aligns with the RDA’s goals for the neighborhood, as adopted through the State Street
Community Reinvestment Area Plan, as follows:
• Neighborhood Revitalization
o Ensure that RDA activities support high quality, enduring projects and promote
sound architectural and urban design principles to encourage safe, sustainable, and
livable neighborhoods.
• Commercial Corridors
o Target RDA programs and tools to leverage private investment for the revitalization
of existing commercial and retail space while avoiding the displacement of
established, locally-owned businesses.
• Employment Centers
o Ensure appropriate levels of office, commercial, and retail spaces are integrated into
redevelopment projects to create synergies between uses and encourage a critical
mass of people.
o Work with Salt Lake City’s Business Development team to retain, recruit, and
expand businesses within the Project Area, especially through the redevelopment of
prime parcels along State Street or other corridors.
PROJECT VIABILITY & ABILITY TO REPAY THE LOAN
Rocky Ventures’ The Front Salt Lake City climbing gym buildings are financed with typical market
loan-to-value rates. The two buildings being renovated by this expansion project (1420 S 400 W and
1450 S 400 W) were valued at a total of $6,300,000 in 2021. Together, they are financed at 57% loan
to value as of June 30, 2023:
Property 2021 Appraised Value Debt LTV
1420 S 400 W $ 3,600,000 $ 2,580,799 72%
1450 S 400 W $ 2,700,000 $ 1,022,341 38%
Total $ 6,300,000 $ 3,603,140 57%
When adding a $2,000,000 RDA loan, the potential loan-to-value lies somewhere between 52% and
68%, depending on how much appraised value the expansion project adds to the existing buildings.
The applicant does not yet have an as-built appraisal but may be able to provide one upon request.
Value1 Debt2 LTV Owner’s Equity
As-is $8,440,000 $3,603,140 43% $4,836,860
As-Built3 $11,300,000 $5,603,140 50% $5,696,860
1November 1, 2023 appraised values
2June 30, 2023 balances
3Assuming construction complete on Phases I-III
RDA staff is confident that the debt—likely to be around 50% LTV after completion of Phase III—is
appropriate and likely to be repaid through regular business cash flow, or through the value of the
collateral in a worst-case foreclosure scenario.
UNDERWRITING PROCESS QUESTIONS
Is the request for funds in accordance with RDA Loan Program Guidelines?
The request is in accordance with most of the RDA Loan Program Guidelines, with the exception of
the Sustainable Development Policy and the number of Public Benefit Criteria needed for the RDA to
be a primary financer.
Is the project financially feasible to complete development?
After a review of The Front’s balance sheet, historic and current profit and loss statements, and future
projections, RDA staff believes the project is financially feasible.
Are there any undue financial benefits to the applicant, or is the owner’s projected return on
equity unreasonably high?
The Front invests a significant portion of profits back into the business. In his 2022 IRS tax return, the
owner is shown to have taken a salary from Rocky Ventures, Inc which is below the 2023 Salt Lake
City, UT HUD Metro FMR Area Median Family Income. RDA staff believes this salary is not
unreasonably high and that the practice of reinvesting money into the business is aligned with RDA
goals of encouraging private investment in its project areas.
Additionally, The Front matches members’ ongoing donations to selected local nonprofit
organizations. To date, The Front and its members have collectively donated over $540k to local
nonprofit organizations.
Are the capital sources for financing identified and reasonable?
The Front is proposing two sources of capital for this expansion project: $3,000,000 in cash from the
business’ cash flow and $2,000,000 in RDA debt. Staff believes the sources are secure and reasonable.
Are RDA funds necessary and appropriate to the development?
]The project could potentially be completed without an RDA loan—as evidenced by the project
starting construction without debt in place. While this expansion project could be completed with The
Front’s cash flow, this would lengthen the timeline of the project, as The Front would be able to hire
labor to do the work only when there is sufficient cash flow. Additionally, if The Front were able to
secure financing from a traditional source, it would likely necessitate a refinance of the entire campus
of properties at a higher interest rate, drastically increasing debt service payments.
Are the developer’s capabilities and strength of collateral identified and reasonable?
The owner is proposing to include 1420 South 400 West and 1450 South 400 West as collateral. As of
June 30, 2023, The Front had $2,696,860 in equity between these two buildings. The Front’s owner,
Dustin Buckthal, is also proposing to give the RDA a personal guarantee.
PROPERTY OVERVIEW
Rocky Estates, LLC (property ownership entity for Rocky Ventures) owns 5 parcels of land on 400
West between 1396 South and 1470 South. In total, the property measures 3.85 acres in size. The two
properties being impacted by this expansion project are 1450 South and 1420 South. Each property
holds a concrete masonry warehouse building. The building at 1450 South is home to the original The
Front climbing gym in Salt Lake City and continues to house climbing walls. 1420 South is vacant and
currently undergoing renovations and build out. All Rocky Estates, LLC properties in this area are
zoned Commercial General.
RDA FINANCE COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
RDA staff presented this loan application to the RDA Finance Committee for a recommendation on
November 15, 2023. The board voted unanimously to send a positive recommendation to the RDA
Board to approve both policy exceptions and the loan application. During discussion, committee
members discussed the business’ ability to repay the loan, reasoning for starting the expansion project
without financing in place, fundraising for and donating to nonprofits, gym membership demographic
makeup, membership fees, youth programs, and sliding-scale membership scholarships.
ATTACHMENTS
A.Loan Term Sheet
B.Site Map
C.Site Plan and Rendering
D.Public Art Concept Plan
E.Photos
F.Construction Cost Estimate
G.Supplemental Loan Application Document from The Front
H.Resolution for Loan to Rocky Ventures, Inc. (dba The
Front Climbing Club)
ATTACHMENT A: RDA TERM SHEET
APPLICANT
Rocky Ventures
ADDRESS
1470 South 400 West
PROPOSED LOAN TERMS
• Amount: $2,000,000 (40% LTC)
• Interest Rate:
RDA Loan Program Base Rate
(U.S. Treasury Yield plus 3%)
7.60%
Public Benefit Interest Rate Reduction1:
• Public Amenities2
• Adaptive Reuse3
• Permanent Job Creation4
• Transit Alternatives5
• Economic Impact6
-0.5%
-0.5%
-0.5%
-0.5%
-0.5%
Final Interest Rate7 5.10%
1To be eligible for interest rate reductions, the project will be required to meet the criteria outlined in Section V.
Maximum interest rate reduction of 250 basis points.
2Project will provide significant public art amenity and meet RDA public art policy by spending 1.5% of RDA loan
value on art
3Project will repurpose existing warehouse buildings
4Expansion will create 40 permanent jobs
5Project will provide showers, lockers, bike storage, and a dedicated car-sharing parking space
6Project will prioritize space for locally-owned business
7The interest rate provided is an estimate. The final interest rate will be based on the 3-year U.S. Treasury Yield
Curve Rate, as determined by the term of the loan, at loan closing.
LOAN TERM SHEET
THE FRONT SLC EXPANSION
• Term: 3 years
• Amortization; 20 years
• Disbursement: Loan proceeds shall be disbursed through construction draws. Any funds not disbursed
24 months after closing will be used to pay all outstanding interest and principal from the loan. To the
extent that project sources exceed project uses at project close out as documented by the cost
certification.
• Expenses: Applicant will pay all loan expenses and closing costs, including title insurance.
• Recourse: The loan shall be full recourse.
COLLATERAL AND GUARANTEES
• Second position lien on the properties at 1450 South 400 West and 1420 South 400 West. As of June
30, 2023, The Front had $2,696,860 in equity between these two buildings.
• Personal guarantee from Dustin Buckthal, 100% owner of Rocky Ventures.
CONDITIONS FOR LOAN CLOSING
Prior to loan closing, the Applicant will complete the following:
• RDA approves all terms of the loan.
• Execute loan documents (e.g. promissory notes, loan agreements, security documents, and
guarantees) as deemed necessary by the RDA and its legal counsel.
• Receive approval from the RDA and its legal counsel of all matters pertaining to title, legality of the
loan, and the legality, sufficiency, and the form and substance of all documents that are deemed
reasonably necessary for the loan transaction.
• Provide evidence of insurance in such amounts and with such coverage as deemed necessary by the
RDA for the Property.
• Obtain all required City approvals.
• Such other terms as recommended by the RDA’s legal counsel and staff.
OTHER CONDITIONS
• The Project shall operate as the intended use over the term.
• The Project shall remain in good financial and legal standing over the term.
ATTACHMENT B: SITE MAP
Yellow – Rocky Estates, LLC property
Green – Properties used in Phase I-IV expansion project
ATTACHMENT C: SITE PLAN AND RENDERING
ATTACHMENT D: PUBLIC ART CONCEPT PLAN
ATTACHMENT E: SITE PHOTOS
Aerial Photo
Photo of 1450 South 400 West
Subject Buildings
Photo of 1420 South 400 West
ATTACHMENT F: CONSTRUCTION COST ESTIMATE
ATTACHMENT G: SUPPLEMENTAL LOAN APPLICATION DOCUMENT FROM THE FRONT
THEFRONTCLIMBINGCLUB.COM // 1
RDA Loan Application
Loan application materials provided by Dustin Buckthal, Owner and CEO; Justin Wyse, Chief of Staff; Melanie Thompson,
Director of Community Impact; Matty Coles, Senior Director of Operations; Cassidy Wasko, Creative Design Manager
Additional copy provided by Allison Hahn, Group Fitness Manager; SJ Burkholz, Yoga Manager; McKenna Guilds, Adaptive
Program Coordinator; Keely Carolan, Youth Programs Manager; David Farkas, Adult Programs Manager; Zach Scott, Youth
and Adult Programs Manager
Renders provided by VY Architecture
THEFRONTCLIMBINGCLUB.COM // 2
Project Summary
Expansion and Renovation
The project entails the remodel of our existing climbing gym and an adjacent warehouse located at 1420 S 400 W
and 1450 S 400 W in Salt Lake City, UT in the State Street community reinvestment area. The expansion is located
on 1.00 + 0.63 acre parcels that will be combined with this project. The buildings will be combined into a single
facility, estimated to be approximately 70,000 SF, with an expected budget of $5mm. Below is an overview of the
project scope:
Parking redesign and a green buffer along the building
facades
Entry space, including a reception desk
Climbing areas, including 60-foot-tall sport climbing walls,
substantial bouldering terrain, and a specialized climbing
training floor
Integrated weight training areas
Cardio exercise areas
Group exercise rooms for yoga, yoga training, and group
fitness
Lounge space integrated throughout
Gym support spaces including restrooms and locker rooms
Operational support spaces including integration of a small staff breakroom, AV room, and storage spaces
Redesign of the linkage between 1470 S 400 W and 1450 S 400 W
Securing funding from the RDA Loan is imperative to expedite the project's progression through Phases 1-3. Given
the scarcity of loan prospects in today's economic landscape, leveraging RDA's funding would not only accelerate
our project's completion but also swiftly generate a tangible positive influence within the Salt Lake community.
The buildings will be
combined into a single
facility, estimated to
be approximately
70,000 SF.
RDA // $2mm
Cash // $3mm
T OTAL // $5 MM
Sources Uses
Construction // $5mm
THEFRONTCLIMBINGCLUB.COM // 3
Project Phasing
The project will be completed in two parts, with the RDA loan funding phases 1-3.
PHASES 1 – 3 : WHERE FUNDING WILL BE UTILIZED
Phase 1, started March 2023, estimated completion November 2023: Additional entry to facility,
addition of fitness class studios, gender-neutral bathrooms and showers, and temporary climbing
training areas, replacement of mechanical and electrical systems, addition of large windows.
Phase 2, November 2023 to February 2023: Removal of buildouts and addition of climbing walls,
addition of large windows, connection of 1420 and 1450 buildings, replacement of mechanical
and electricals, addition of fire suppression system, addition of staff break room.
Phase 3, March 2023 to May 2023: Addition of fire suppression system, replacement of electrical
and mechanical system, connection of direct courtyard access, addition of gender-neutral
bathrooms.
PHASE 4
Phase 4, June 2024 to June 2025: Raising building to 60ft, adding additional space for weights
and cardio equipment, addition of yoga facilities, addition of World Cup and Olympic style route
and bouldering walls for athlete training and hosting international competitions, replacement of
mechanical and electrical systems.
THEFRONTCLIMBINGCLUB.COM // 4
Who We Are
Merging Heritage and Innovation
The Front began in 1989 as a co-op climbing gym called the Bodyshop, located in Sandy, and was led by local
legend Dave Bell. Years later, the business was purchased by Kristian Merwin. The facility moved locations and was
renamed The Wasatch Front. In 1998 the business was acquired by Mike Uchitel and moved at last to its current
location at 1450 S 400 W. The new facility was built to host national climbing competitions and renamed The
Front. It was the adolescent years of business, and it made a name for itself! Archival footage of Professional
Climbers Association competitions captures iconic climbers such as Chris Sharma and Tommy Caldwell pushing
their limits on our unique wooden walls. In 2005, The Front was acquired by now current owner Dustin Buckthal.
Fueled by a commitment to progress, The Front partnered with climbing wall builder and all-around gym supplier
Vertical Solutions and Hannah Vaughn at MHTN to infuse architectural brilliance into a 2016 expansion. This
evolution led to 60-foot top rope and lead climbing walls, enriched bouldering
zones, revitalizing saunas, and a youth-centric School Room.
The Front is a vibrant community space dedicated to creating enriching
experiences, deepening community ties, and creating sustainable foundations
that underlie everything we do. Our community access initiatives afford a
growing and diverse population of Salt Lake residents’ affordable access to our
world class facilities where they can build community over shared experiences
and a love for climbing. Beyond our walls, we amplify the positive change initiated by local non-profits through our
Impact Coalition, where members pledge monthly donations to our non-profit partners, which The Front matches
dollar for dollar. Since its formation the Impact Coalition has raised over $540k for these local nonprofits.
The Front is more than a climbing gym; it's a nexus of connections, experiences, and growth. Our events kindle
fellowship, our programs embrace diversity, and our commitment to sustainability ignites a greener future. With
Come as you are,
we’ll send you
home stronger.
THEFRONTCLIMBINGCLUB.COM // 5
your support, The Front will continue to inspire, innovate, and elevate, forging a path where heritage meets
innovation, and community thrives. Come as you are, we’ll send you home stronger.
Community Access Initiatives
The Front employs a variety of community programs to support inclusivity and accessibility at our facilities,
including the support of community groups and scholarship-based access to membership and youth programs. Our
community access initiatives aim to empower individuals to conquer both the vertical walls in front of them and
any other obstacles that come their way in life.
Community Climbing Groups
Our community climbing groups empower
underrepresented populations. These community-
led groups help to promote inclusivity and hold
space for shared experiences. They are supported
by The Front through access to discounted rates,
free rental gear, and support on special events from Front staff. These groups include Color the Wasatch, Salt Lake
Area Queer Climbers (SLAQC), Escaladores Unidos, All Bodies Climb, and Ladies Climbing Coalition.
Community Access Membership Program
We will be launching our Community Access
Membership Program (CAMP) in Winter 2023, providing
low-cost or free access to gym memberships at The
Front for individuals in the community experiencing
financial hardship. The goal of this program is to
enhance access to our facilities and increase the
availability of health and wellness resources for
members of our community that could not otherwise
afford it. Preliminarily, this program will provide gym
access to 60 individuals, with the intention of
providing additional opportunities after a trial phase is completed. The membership will last for 6 months, after
which the individuals’ eligibility will be reassessed. The program will have a low barrier to entry, a simple
application process, and a pay-what-you-can membership model. The program will be trialed with local nonprofits
in the area like VOA of Utah and refugee centers, who work with populations that could benefit from affordable
access to health resources.
Our community climbing groups
empower underrepresented
populations.
THEFRONTCLIMBINGCLUB.COM // 6
Youth Scholarship Program
The Front recently launched a youth scholarship
program driven by a clear vision: to promote equitable
access to the sport of rock climbing and support the
local communities surrounding The Front by offering
children transformative opportunities to grow and
succeed. We recognize that many young individuals in
our community face financial and cultural barriers that
hinder their participation in sports like rock climbing.
We are committed to creating an inclusive environment
where youth can not only develop their climbing
abilities but also cultivate life-long values such as
perseverance, self-confidence, and teamwork.
Giving Back
The Impact Coalition
We founded the Impact Coalition program in 2018 to provide consistent support for nonprofits making positive
impacts in our local community. Every one of our members has the option to add a recurring donation as small as
$1 to their membership, and we match them dollar for dollar. Today, we support 5 local nonprofits and in 2022,
raised over $170k through the Impact Coalition.
One of our Impact Coalition partners, Utah Clean Energy (UCE), is
committed to creating a future that ensures healthy, thriving
communities for all, empowered and sustained by clean energy.
They achieve this work through a variety of programs related to
transitioning to renewable energy, reducing emissions in homes
and buildings, promoting climate change leadership, and
supporting clean and electric transportation initiatives.
To date we have
directed over $540k to
local non-profits.
THEFRONTCLIMBINGCLUB.COM // 7
2018
2019
2020
2022
The Impact Coalition is founded in May, the first month pulling in a matched $110. (Don’t
worry, the donations basically double month over month in 2018 after that!)
Impact Co. events begin, with Utah Clean Energy tabling and earning support at that
years’ Climbing Up For Air in partnership with Running Up For Air and Jared Campbell. CAWS
begins Fursdays, bringing adoptable animals supported by the Impact Co. to the Salt Lake City
Front and to potential new foster parents and adopters.
The Impact Coalition hits $100k of total matched donations in November of 2020, continuing
to provide support to our nonprofit partners after a dip in charitable donations caused by the
COVID-19 pandemic.
After hitting the match cap of $40k member contributions in 2021, The Front removes the
cap and now matches all Impact Co. donations made by its members.
Impact Co. Timeline
Combined Annual Donations
2018: $8,203
2019: $41,228
2020: $59,656
2021: $128,954
2022: $168,127
2023: est. +$175,000
($114,852 AT END OF AUGUST)
Combined Monthly Donations
THEFRONTCLIMBINGCLUB.COM // 8
Amenities and Programs
Adaptive Programs
The Adaptive Program started as a community group and eventually grew into a larger, company-staffed program
so that The Front could provide proper training for staff and quality programming to the adaptive community.
Adaptive programs include a monthly adaptive meet
up, collaboration between The Front and the National
Abilities Center (NAC) to include weekly 1:1 sessions
for people of all ability levels, and a staffed Adaptive
Competitive Team that helps athletes with disabilities
work towards competing at a professional level. We
host a variety of events that support the adaptive
community, including the Paraclimbing World Cup, an
adaptive film festival, Guide Dogs in Training, and
many other adaptive focused events.
We host a variety of events
that support the adaptive
community, including the
Paraclimbing World Cup.
Adult Programs
Our adult programs offer a pipeline for new climbers to
gain the skills and knowledge they need to reach their
personal climbing goals. This climbing pathway, called the
Ascent Series, creates seamless movement between
different climbing levels, enabling each climber to
advance at a pace that aligns with their unique abilities
and aspirations.
Café and Courtyard
In 2018 we introduced Rumsy’s café, a restaurant and
dynamic co-working space, on our facility’s top floor. Our
kitchen provides a rotating menu of specials and catering
for larger events.
THEFRONTCLIMBINGCLUB.COM // 9
Our beautifully landscaped outdoor courtyard provides
gathering areas and shade for our members and visitors
during warmer months. Our programs often take advantage
of this space by offering periodic outdoor fitness or yoga
classes. Youth teams will frequently gather here to discuss
training plans, and we host community events in this space
ranging from bicycle maintenance workshops to competition
after-parties.
Youth Programs
The Front offers a robust youth programs pipeline from the
introductory level all the way to the highest level of competitive rock
climbing. Our vision is to foster a powerful and positive impact on
the development of children in our community while providing
educational opportunities for each step of the climbing journey. The
sport of climbing provides youth with the development of problem-
solving skills, increases confidence, and builds powerful friendships.
Community Events
The Front is continuously deepening its emotional
depth and connection to the community by offering
unique and memorable events. Our events highlight our
state-of-the-art facilities and set The Front apart as the
neighborhood “third place,” where individuals can
gather and build community outside of home and
work. You can see this unfolding at Summer Music
Nights where hundreds of people from the community
After School Program
Recreational Team
Intermediate Team
Competition Team
Our beautifully landscaped
outdoor courtyard provides
gathering areas and shade.
THEFRONTCLIMBINGCLUB.COM // 10
join to watch live music and share food after their
climbing session, and you can see it through the
unparalleled excitement and energy at our climbing
competitions.
The Front has an active relationship with USA Climbing,
the official governing body of competition climbing in
the U.S. Hosting several USA Climbing competitions
each year allows us to bring significant cultural events
with a global audience to this neighborhood.
We also host volunteer opportunities with local
nonprofits, such as the VOA of Utah, that are open to
members and staff and anyone else from the
community that wishes to participate. Our in-house and
external events alike all have a focus on promoting
social interaction and reinforcing the identity and
character of our neighborhood.
Group Fitness
Our group fitness program provides one-of-a-kind
classes that create a safe space to learn and pathways
for continuous, individualized progression based on an
athlete’s personal goals. Classes range from
introductory to advanced. We offer specialized classes
such as barre, mat Pilates, mobility, mountain sports
conditioning, bootcamps, foam rolling, women’s-
specific powerlifting, spin, and yoga-based ab training in
addition to traditional fitness classes such as HIIT and
strength training.
Yoga
We believe that consistent yoga practice can help
improve people's happiness and health and reduce
stress levels. We offer the first class free to anyone who
would like to try it out, and our membership prices
make yoga much more accessible than traditional
studio membership pricing. Classes are available
throughout the day, every day of the week. We provide
16 unique styles of yoga, plus tai chi and adaptive yoga
for those with disabilities so that anyone can find a style
that suits them.
Hosting several USA
Climbing competitions each
year allows us to bring
significant cultural events
with a global audience to
this neighborhood.
THEFRONTCLIMBINGCLUB.COM // 11
How We Qualify
1. Sustainability
OUR EXPANSION WILL INTEGRATE SUSTAINABLE DESIGN PRINCIPLES AND MAINTAIN OUR
PARTICIPATION IN ROCKY MOUNTAIN POWER’S BLUE SKY PROGRAM. Utilizing sustainable energy
and supporting similar initiatives is a main priority for The Front. We have developed numerous channels to ensure
that our sustainability initiatives are comprehensive and current. Elevating our sustainability commitment, we've
offset power consumption and reduced our energy usage by over 30%. With the loan's potential, we aim to
further position The Front as a beacon of excellence in sustainable business practices.
Offsetting Energy Consumption
In 2010, we installed a rooftop 7.6kw solar array at our SLC location
and in 2019 a 30kw solar array at South Main to further offset our
energy needs. In 2007, The Front joined Rocky Mountain Power's
Blue Sky Program – offsetting 100% of our SLC power
consumption with wind and solar-generated electricity. In 2022, we
received the Green Small Business Legacy Award which honors
companies that are improving air quality, reducing emissions, and
making strides toward Utah’s environmental sustainability. The Front
obtained this award by having 100% of its electricity usage derived
from renewable energy sources at our SLC location.
Recycling and Compost
We have been a free community glass drop off location since 2011
and have offered battery recycling since 2013.
In 2019, Rumsy's joined the Wasatch Resource Recovery commercial
compost program and now offers only compostable single-use
disposables.
Electric Vehicle Stations
We have 12 EV stations in Salt Lake's parking lots with an
additional 12 spots installed at South Main in 2020.
In 2022, we received
the Green Small
Business Legacy Award.
THEFRONTCLIMBINGCLUB.COM // 12
Mechanical Approach
The building uses an evaporative cooling system paired
with radiant tube heaters – a system well-suited for the
volume of space, use as a gym, and effectiveness in Salt
Lake’s climate. The evaporative cooling is an energy
efficient strategy that requires less energy than a typical
AC. An efficient all-electric system, known as Variable
Refrigerant Flow (VRF), is also in place to serve certain
enclosed exercise spaces.
The Front HQ uses the most efficient and state of the art lighting design modeling. The entire lighting system
employs integral high-efficiency LED luminaires used to maximize efficiency and visual comfort for the building
users. In addition, the latest in digital lighting control systems have been used to save energy and extend the life of
the lighting products. This carefully programmed and tuned system uses astronomical time-clock functions and
occupancy sensors in every room to garner a 59% better than code compliance for the interior lighting, and 82%
better than code for exterior lighting. Please refer to the Electrical COMcheck attachment for additional
information.
2. Public Amenities
THE EXPANSION PROJECT WILL PROVIDE ADDITIONAL OUTDOOR GREEN SPACES, VERSATILE
COMMUNITY GATHERING SPACES, EVENTS SUPPORTING LOCAL ARTS AND THE
INTRODUCTION OF INNOVATIVE EDUCATIONAL AMENITIES. The Front HQ expansion builds out the
Front Climbing Club’s downtown campus with more space to grow our successful amenities: yoga, fitness, youth
programs, adaptive programs, live music, competitions and events, community impact groups, workspaces,
outdoor areas, and even a ceramics and pottery studio. All these amenities are designed to enhance community
and cultivate a positive learning environment that supports continuous growth. The expansion will allow
substantial public amenity access, including the introduction of new educational amenities like the ceramics and
pottery studio. The character of the gym has a strong presence in the Ballpark neighborhood – a neighborhood
The Front HQ uses the most
efficient and state of the
art lighting design modeling.
THEFRONTCLIMBINGCLUB.COM // 13
that is currently undergoing a transformation from manufacturing and industry to a neighborhood with residential
buildings and other walkable services. The Front has been a pioneer in inviting pedestrian traffic to the
neighborhood, and hosting events that draw visitors from near and far.
3. Permanent Job Creation & Retention
OUR EXPANSION IS EXPECTED TO CREATE OPPORTUNITIES FOR APPROXIMATELY 30-40 NEW
JOBS, ALL STARTING AT $16 HOURLY OR HIGHER. A diverse array of employment opportunities is on the
horizon, encompassing full-time, part-time, and seasonal roles that span from program instruction to high-level
managerial positions, as well as technical functions such as full-time route setters who craft the engaging climbing
experiences we offer to the community. The Front takes great pride in its robust internal professional
development pipeline, which furnishes employees with educational pathways for upward mobility within the
company. This commitment is underscored by distinct progression systems within each department, intricately
linking career advancement and educational avenues to wage escalations.
Wage Average # Of employees
Front Desk (hourly) $17.14 43
Route Setting (hourly) $20.81 12
Climbing Instructor (hourly) $20.62 49
Fitness Instructor (hourly) $33.08 26
Yoga Instructor (hourly) $47.31 28
Office Staff (salary) $41,959.43 44
Leadership (salary) $73,886.19 7
Our SLC location spans 34,913 square feet and maintains an employee density of approximately 1 employee per
266 square feet, with a total of 131 active employees contributing to that site. With the forthcoming expansion set
to provide an additional 34,761 square feet, we envision the creation of 30 to 40 new permanent positions
distributed across various departments. Projections considering employees per square foot suggest that as our
enterprise flourishes, the potential arises for the generation of over 100 fresh roles at our expansion, further
amplifying our positive influence within the Salt Lake community.
THEFRONTCLIMBINGCLUB.COM // 14
4. Adaptive Reuse
Renovation & Addition
Our expansion project will revitalize, preserve, and repurpose previously used and unused CMU warehouse
structures along 400 W, integrating them with our existing facility, resulting in a positive contribution to the
surrounding neighborhood.
The CMU of the buildings will remain intact, as a durable material that is in good condition, and will be modified to
include larger openings and high-efficiency fenestrations. By re-using the existing building, the need for new
building materials is reduced and the lifespan of the
existing structure is prolonged. In addition to re-using
most of the existing building shells, the site parking
and landscaping design re-uses as much of the
existing layout as possible in order to minimize the
embodied energy of new materials, and to maximize
the lifespan of existing conditions and infrastructure.
Our expansion project will
revitalize, preserve, and
repurpose previously used
and unused CMU warehouse
structures.
1450 S 400 W, which was home to the original Front
Climbing Club location, will be renovated, creating a
planted buffer zone around the building for safe
pedestrian access. Improvements will be made to the
connection of the interior with the landscape, with
additional natural light and visibility to the
surrounding site and streetscape.
1420 S 400 W will receive a significant vertical
addition along the north side, which will house more
climbing area, as well as additional exercise and
training spaces. The building will also have an
additional entry point into the Front, further
activating the connection to 400 W.
THEFRONTCLIMBINGCLUB.COM // 15
5. Transit Alternatives
Our expansion will nearly double our existing employee showers, locker rooms, bicycle facilities and bicycle
valet program.
The Front’s SLC location is within 0.6 miles of the Ballpark Trax Station, and within 0.2 miles of Bus Route 9’s 1300
S & 400 W bus stop. The new bike lane on 300 W connects bikers safely to the gym, where ample protected bike
parking is provided both at the exterior and interior of the
facility. Users and staff have access to lockers and showers
on-site. A car-sharing parking stall is provided on site to
encourage alternative methods of transit. Several car-
charging stations are available on the existing site and in
the Front expansion. The Front encourages bike
commuting through our Ride for Rewards program. Each
time participants push pedals instead of gas to get to the
gym, they are entered into a monthly drawing for gear
from our pro shop. In addition, members can also complete
a punch card for a smoothie at Rumsy's, the gym’s café.
Our expansion will nearly
double our existing
employee showers, locker
rooms, bicycle facilities
and bicycle valet program.
THEFRONTCLIMBINGCLUB.COM // 16
6. Economic Impact
The expansion will rehabilitate adjacent warehouse
buildings to eliminate blight while simultaneously
allocating dedicated space for local enterprises.
These businesses include The Front, Testpiece, Vertical
Solutions, and retail areas showcasing local brands like
Petzl and Black Diamond – and offering tabling
partnerships at our events with various other local
vendors.
The expansion is projected to directly increase property
valuation by $5mm as well as increase the valuation of
the surrounding properties by reducing blight and
crime. Projected revenue increase of $25mm over 5
years will generate upward of $2mm in local and state
sales tax.
As a locally owned business, our project aligns with
efforts to rehabilitate and redevelop the neighborhood.
WE AVERAGE OVER 1,000 CHECK-INS EACH
DAY and we stock a comprehensive retail shop that
includes products from locally owned businesses.
We support local artists through events such as Makers Market nights, and we feature local artwork in our facilities
which artists can sell with no commission collected by The Front. Funding for this project will also support jobs for
locally owned businesses including climbing wall manufacturer Vertical Solutions and local architecture firm VY
Architecture.
The expansion will
rehabilitate adjacent
warehouse buildings to
eliminate blight while
simultaneously allocating
dedicated space for local
enterprises.
THEFRONTCLIMBINGCLUB.COM // 17
7. Architecture & Urban Design
OUR EXPANSION PROJECT WAS DESIGNED BY LOCAL
ARCHITECTURAL FIRM VY ARCHITECTURE WITH REVIEW
FROM OUR COMPANY LEADERSHIP TEAM. Our design promotes
high quality materials, responds to the surrounding context, and
enhances the public realm.
Architecture
The renovation of 1450 S 400 W will repurpose the facade with additional
openings, inundating the interiors with natural light, connecting the
interior spaces to the exterior and the pedestrian realm. The facade
upgrade transforms the elevations of the CMU warehouse building from
rigid and industrial to dynamic and engaging, modernizing the industrial
feel of the neighborhood without removing its character. Additional
exterior spaces are transparent and connected to the surrounding
neighborhood, sharing the activity of the interior with the environment.
INCLUDED IN OUR PLAN IS SPACE FOR A PERMANENT PUBLIC ART INSTALLATION THAT WILL
CONTRIBUTE TO THE VISUAL IMPROVEMENT OF THE NEIGHBORHOOD.
Urban Design
In addition to the facade upgrade of the existing CMU structures, the
vertical addition at 1420 S 400 W establishes a cohesive design language
with the tall portion of the existing gym facility at 1470 S 400 W. These
two elevated portions of the building hint at the vertical programming
on the interior and are identifiable silhouettes along I-15, a shadowed
reference to the skyline surrounding SLC.
The landscaping approach of both the existing Front facility, and the
Front HQ expansion promote dense, native, low-water species. Going
far beyond the minimum landscape requirements, the generous
landscaping coupled with areas for bicycles, and pedestrian friendly
routes, contributes greatly to the revitalization of the surrounding area,
setting an elevated standard for the local urban fabric. The Front’s
campus design promotes pedestrian movement and activity through the
addition of sidewalks, appropriate lighting, landscaping, and buildings
that have numerous windows that look out to the streets and engage the surrounding area. THE
ARCHITECTURE IS ALSO DISTINCTIVE AND RECOGNIZABLE ON THE SLC SKYLINE – A
SILHOUETTED REFERENCE TO THE JAGGED WASATCH BEYOND. The Front HQ expansion continues
that formal dialogue, creating an additional layer. Pushed up against I-15, the Front campus seeks to block some of
the noise along the western edge and create a pedestrian friendly campus along the east side, replete with heavy
tree-planting that acts as an additional acoustic filter and air purifier.
THEFRONTCLIMBINGCLUB.COM // 18
Public Benefits
Sustainability
Our expansion will integrate sustainable design principles and maintain our participation in Rocky
Mountain Power’s Blue Sky Program.
Public Amenities
The expansion project will provide additional outdoor green spaces, versatile community gathering
spaces, and events supporting local arts. It will include the expansion of existing amenities such as our adaptive
program and community group access as well as new offerings including our ceramics and pottery program.
Adaptive Reuse
Our expansion project will revitalize, preserve, and repurpose previously used and unused CMU
warehouse structures along 400 W, integrating them with our existing facility, resulting in a positive contribution
to the surrounding neighborhood.
Permanent Job Creation
Our expansion is expected to create opportunities for approximately 40 new jobs, all starting at $16
hourly or higher.
Architecture and Urban Design
Our expansion project was designed by local architectural firm VY Architecture with review from our
company leadership team. Our design promotes high quality materials, responds to the surrounding context, and
enhances the public realm via architectural choices and a public art installation.
Transit Alternatives
Our expansion will nearly double our existing employee showers, locker rooms, bicycle facilities and
bicycle valet program. A car-sharing parking stall is provided on site to encourage alternative methods of transit.
Economic Impact
The expansion will rehabilitate adjacent warehouse buildings to eliminate blight while simultaneously
allocating dedicated space for local enterprises. The expansion is projected to directly increase property valuation
by $5mm as well as increase the valuation of the surrounding properties by reducing blight and crime. Projected
revenue increase of $25mm over 5 years will generate upward of $2mm in local and state sales tax.
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REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY OF SALT LAKE CITY
RESOLUTION NO. _____
LOAN TO ROCKY VENTURES, INC. (DBA THE FRONT CLIMBING CLUB)
RESOLUTION OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY
OF SALT LAKE CITY APPROVING THE TERM SHEET OF A LOAN TO ROCKY
VENTURES, INC. FOR CONSTRUCTION OF AN EXPANSION OF THE FRONT CLIMBING
GYM
WHEREAS, the Redevelopment Agency of Salt Lake City (“RDA”) was created to transact the
business and exercise the powers provided for in the Utah Community Reinvestment Agency Act
(the “Act”).
WHEREAS, the Act grants the RDA powers to use funds to provide for project area development
within project area boundaries.
WHEREAS, the RDA has an RDA Loan Program (“Program”), the purpose of which is to
promote economic development, encourage private investment, and enhance project area vitality.
WHEREAS, on October 18, 2016, the RDA Board adopted Resolution No. R-37-2016,
establishing policy guidelines for the RDA Loan Program (the “Policy”).
WHEREAS, pursuant to the Policy, Rocky Ventures, Inc. (the “Borrower”) submitted an
application for a loan to expand The Front Climbing Club, a climbing gym located within the
RDA’s State Street project area, by remodeling the existing structure and adaptively reusing an
adjacent vacant warehouse (the “Project”).
WHEREAS, the Project requires two waivers for aspects of the Project that do not follow RDA
policies: one waiver from the Sustainable Development Policy because this Project does not meet
the threshold requirements, and one waiver from the RDA Loan Program Policy that requires the
Project to meet six or more Public Benefit Criteria to receive a primary loan from the RDA.
WHEREAS, the RDA Finance Committee reviewed the proposed loan application in a meeting
on November 15, 2023 and voted to recommend the loan to the RDA Board for approval.
WHEREAS, in conjunction with the RDA Finance Committee’s recommendations, the RDA staff
recommends the attached set of terms (the “Term Sheet”) for a loan in the amount of $2,000,000
to the Borrower for construction of the Project (the “Construction Loan”).
WHEREAS, RDA staff further requests the RDA Board approve the two policy waivers from the
for the Project, as also described in the Term Sheet.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Board that it approves the two policy waivers
for the Project, and further approves the Construction Loan as outlined in the Term Sheet attached
hereto, subject to revisions that do not materially affect the rights and obligations of the RDA
hereunder. The Board authorizes the Executive Director to negotiate and execute the loan
agreement and any other relevant documents consistent with the Term Sheet, and incorporating
such other terms and agreements as recommended by the City Attorney’s office.
Passed by the Board of Directors of the Redevelopment Agency of Salt Lake City, this
day of , 2023.
Alejandro Puy, Chair
Approved as to form:
Sara Montoya
Salt Lake City Attorney’s Office
Date: November 22, 2023
The Executive Director:
does not request reconsideration
requests reconsideration at the next regular Agency meeting.
Erin Mendenhall, Executive Director
Attest:
City Recorder
LOAN TERM SHEET ROCKY VENTURES, INC. (DBA THE FRONT CLIMBING CLUB) 1470 South 400 West
The terms described on this Term Sheet represent the terms for a primary construction loan to fund
Rocky Ventures, Inc.’s (“Borrower’s”) expansion project of their climbing gym located in the
RDA’s State Street Project Area. The project will allow the Borrower to remodel the existing
structure and adaptively reuse an adjacent vacant warehouse, combining three buildings into one
single facility that will offer approximately 70,000 square feet of space. This expansion project
will add climbing walls, fitness studios, bathrooms and showers, a staff break room, storage space,
and various mechanical, electrical, and fire suppression systems.
The loan, as requested from the Borrower, requires two waivers for aspects of the project that do
not follow RDA policies: a waiver from the Sustainable Development Policy that prohibits on-site
natural gas combustion and requires the project to achieve a Designed to Earn ENERGY STAR
score of 90 or higher or an Energy Use Intensity that is comparable to this score (the project will
include on-site natural gas combustion, and an ENERGY STAR score cannot be calculated for
this facility type), and a second waiver from the Loan Program Policy that requires projects
receiving primary loans to meet six or more Public Benefit Criteria (the project meets five).
LOAN TERMS
Borrower: Rocky Ventures, Inc.
Property: 1420 South 400 West and 1450 South 400 West
Amount: Not to exceed $2,000,000
Source of funds: Revolving Loan Fund
Project Description: The project will include remodeling the existing structures at 1420 South
400 West and 1450 South 400 West, combining three buildings into one
single facility that will offer approximately 70,000 square feet of space.
This expansion project will add climbing walls, fitness studios, bathrooms
and showers, a staff break room, storage space, and various mechanical,
electrical, and fire suppression systems.
Public Benefits: Public Amenities: The project must include a significant public art
amenity on the exterior of the buildings, using at least 1.5% of the RDA
contribution ($30,000) for such art.
Adaptive Reuse: The project’s expansion must repurpose two existing
cinder block warehouse buildings along 400 West, integrating them with
the existing facility and resulting in a positive contribution to the
surrounding neighborhood.
Permanent Job Creation: The project’s expansion must create
opportunities for 40 new jobs, all starting at $15/hour or higher.
Transit Alternatives: The project will add employee showers, lockers, and
indoor bicycle parking, as well as incentivize car share with a dedicated
parking stall.
Economic Impact: The project will rehabilitate two older warehouse
buildings and dedicate 100% of the space to locally owned business
operations.
Term: 3 years
Amortization: 20 years
Interest Rate: 5.10% Interest Rate*
Interest shall accrue during construction, beginning upon the first
disbursement of funds. Accrued interest during construction to be added to
the loan balance.
Repayment Monthly amortized payments commence following receipt of Certificate of
Occupancy.
A balloon payment of any outstanding balance shall be due upon maturity.
Collateral: A second-position mortgage lien on the properties located at 1450 South
400 West and 1420 South 400 West.
Guarantors: Unconditional repayment personal guarantee from Dustin Buckthal, 100%
owner of Rocky Ventures, Inc..
Disbursement: Loan proceeds shall be disbursed through construction draws. Any funds
not disbursed 24 months after closing will be applied to outstanding
interest and principal on the loan.
Fees: Closing costs and legal fees shall be paid by the Borrower including,
but not limited to, the cost of title search and insurance, credit
reports, and attorney fees. Fees will be payable at loan closing.
Use of Funds Funds shall be used for construction costs associated with the renovation of
1420 South 400 West and 1450 South 400 West.
*Interest rate to be determined on closing day based on current 3-year US Treasury Par Yield Curve Rate
CONDITIONS FOR LOAN CLOSING
• Borrower meets all terms of the loan.
• RDA approves final schedule of sources and uses and the project proforma.
• The parties agree on the form of the loan documents (e.g. promissory
notes, loan agreements, security documents, and guarantees) as deemed
necessary by the RDA and its legal counsel.
• Borrower receive and comply with all necessary approvals from the City, as further
defined in the loan agreement.
• Borrower to receive approval from the RDA and its legal counsel of all matters
pertaining to title, legality of the loan, and the legality, sufficiency, and the form
and substance of all documents that are deemed reasonably necessary for the loan
transaction.
• Borrower to provide evidence of insurance in such amounts and with such coverage
as deemed necessary by the RDA for the Property.
• Such other terms as recommended by the RDA’s legal counsel and staff.