WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators Mitt Romney (R-UT) and Mike Lee (R-UT) reintroduced the University of Utah Research Park Act, a bill to protect and preserve Research Park, a vital center for research and development that serves both the University and the local workforce. Research Park is on a parcel of land transferred to the University by the Bureau of Land Management in 1968. The bill would preserve the University of Utah’s nearly 600-acre research park which is home to over 50 companies and organizations, employing nearly 14,000 people and generating millions in economic activity annually.
Of the bill, Lee and Romney said, “As Senators from the great state of Utah, we are proud to reintroduce the University of Utah Research Park Act. This bill is crucial in protecting and preserving Research Park, a hub for innovation and economic growth that serves both the University of Utah and the local workforce
“Unfortunately, an encumbrance on the title of the land has put Research Park at risk of losing its productivity and vitality.
“We’re coming together to ensure that Research Park remains a thriving center for research and development. By doing so, we will support the University of Utah’s continued success and foster economic growth and job creation throughout our state.”
Sens. Lee and Romney first introduced the University of Utah Research Park Act during the 117th Congress with the support of the entire Utah Congressional Delegation, in addition to University of Utah President Taylor Randall, Utah Governor Spencer Cox, and Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall.