OGDEN, Utah — A historic building in downtown Ogden is entering a new chapter. The city has officially acquired the former U.S. Forest Service Building, a striking Art Deco landmark, with plans to transform it into a vibrant community and arts hub.
Ogden City announced on Friday, April 4, that it finalized the $3.6 million purchase of the building from the federal government after it was declared surplus property. The city had approved the acquisition in December 2023, and officials are now gearing up to reimagine the space with the creative community in mind.
A Landmark Rich in History
Built in 1934, the structure originally served as the district headquarters for the U.S. Forest Service and is considered one of Utah’s most iconic examples of Art Deco architecture. Designed by the same architectural firm responsible for Ogden High School and the Ogden Municipal Building, the Forest Service Building has been on the National Register of Historic Places since the 1980s.
The building remained in federal use until recent years and has since sat vacant. Its addition to Ogden’s portfolio marks a significant moment for historic preservation efforts in the city.
Preservation Utah’s Executive Director Brandy Strand applauded the acquisition, calling it “a major achievement” for maintaining the building’s architectural and cultural legacy.
Vision for the Future
Located in the heart of Ogden’s Nine Rails Creative District — a neighborhood devoted to nurturing arts, culture, and innovation — the building is expected to play a central role in the district’s continued development.
City officials said the structure will be repurposed into a mixed-use facility featuring affordable housing tailored for artists, collaborative workspaces, and performance venues. The goal is to create an inclusive live/work environment that supports creativity and community engagement.
“This is an opportunity to reimagine a historic site into a space that not only preserves the past but energizes the future,” said Ogden Mayor Ben Nadolski. “We’re building a place that inspires innovation and celebrates the arts — one that benefits the entire city.”
To bring the vision to life, Ogden is partnering with the Giv Group, a housing development organization known for its socially conscious projects. While Ogden’s Redevelopment Agency facilitated the purchase, it’s likely Giv Group will oversee the long-term ownership and transformation of the building.
Protecting the Past While Building the Future
As part of the project, Ogden will continue collaborating with Preservation Utah to safeguard the building’s historic elements. The nonprofit organization will also hold a preservation easement, ensuring the Art Deco features are protected throughout future renovations.
According to the city’s Economic Development Division Director, Sara Meess, future design plans are still in the early stages. However, public meetings and further engagement with stakeholders — including Preservation Utah and Giv Group — are expected to take place in the coming months.
“Preservation Utah has been instrumental in documenting the building’s historical elements,” Meess said. “They’ll be a key partner in making sure the transformation honors the integrity of what makes this building so special.”
While a full timeline for renovation and redevelopment has yet to be released, Ogden leaders say the project is a cornerstone for their ongoing commitment to arts-driven urban revitalization.
