SOUTH JORDAN, Utah — With the crack of bats echoing from the newly opened Ballpark at America First Square, local businesses in South Jordan are beginning to feel the ripple effects — both exciting and uncertain.
Amber Wilson, owner of Land of a Thousand Hills Coffee, has only been in business a few months, but she’s already seeing the perks of being neighbors with the Salt Lake Bees’ new home.
“It was nonstop,” Wilson said of game day traffic, as fans lined up for coffee before heading to the team’s home opener Tuesday evening. “We’re really hoping the visibility brings people in who didn’t know we were here.”
The coffee shop, tucked just steps away from the stadium, offers more than just caffeine. With specialty sodas, a beer menu, and light snacks, Wilson envisions it becoming a go-to pregame hangout.
“We want newcomers to check us out — grab a drink, relax, and maybe make it part of their game-day tradition,” she added.
The ballpark, which can seat up to 8,000 fans, officially opened this week and is expected to draw big crowds throughout the summer. While many local business owners welcome the boost in foot traffic, some nearby residents are raising flags about potential downsides.
Steven Clyde, who lives in the neighborhood, said he’s bracing for heavier congestion. “I’m definitely expecting more traffic around here,” he said. “It might make commuting during games a little tricky. Biking might be the best bet now.”
Despite those worries, Wilson sees the stadium as a major opportunity — not just for her shop, but for the Rwandan communities her coffee business supports.
“Our beans are sourced from Rwanda, and a portion of every cup sold goes back to help those communities,” she explained. “So the more customers we get through the door, the more we’re able to give back.”
As the Salt Lake Bees settle into their new home, local businesses like Wilson’s are hoping the stadium brings more than just home runs — they’re banking on long-term community growth.
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