Utah officials tour the Draper prison before its demolition

DRAPER, Utah — The Draper prison facility is officially closed.

It’s the conclusion of one chapter and the beginning of a new chapter in this area. While demolition will start soon on the closed Draper prison, there will be a piece of it that is saved.

The persevered piece is a part of the prison chapel as it is a place for so many that served as a place of light according to Utah Gov. Spencer Cox.

“The chapel was the place that should be preserved and maintained for so many reasons. A place that in the darkest of times, it gave hope to so many,” Cox said.

He said for 71 years, the Draper prison served its purpose.

Recently, the 2,464 incarcerated people it held were transported to the new state corrections facility off Interstate 80 in Salt Lake County, meaning it’s time to move on to the next chapter.

These 700 acres will be turned into what’s called “The Point.” Cox thinks it will be as popular as some of Utah’s best-known destinations.

“I believe right up there with our national parks and Temple Square that [The Point] will be one of the most visited places in the state of Utah when it is finished.”

The Point will include residences, entertainment, higher education, shopping, and much more.

The governor said he hopes The Point will serve as a model for the state and the U.S.

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