Salt Lake City Uproots 2002 Olympic Monument

(ATR) The towering arch built for the 2002 Winter Olympics will move from the University of Utah to another location in Salt Lake City.

The arch originally served as a backdrop for medal ceremonies during the 2002 Games, but has spent the past eleven years outside Rice-Eccles Stadium. The structure will be dismantled into 4,000 pieces and placed in storage until officials decide on a new location.

Given the arch’s size – 36 feet tall by 72 feet wide – the process may take months, according to city spokesman Art Raymond.

"We won't be in a hurry to do this. This will be about making a thoughtful decision and allowing for ample public involvement," Raymond told reporters on Saturday.

"Obviously, we don't want to move it twice."

Salt Lake City plans to look for private organizations and businesses to help contribute to the construction of a new base for the arch, reassembly of the arch, and security for the monument.

"We're excited about being caretakers," Raymond said.

"This is one of the most memorable icons from our 2002 Olympic Games."

Written by Andrew Murrell

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