Downtown Ogden is about to take a major step forward in its long-awaited WonderBlock redevelopment project. City officials have confirmed that the first completed portion — a new parking structure — will open within the next few weeks, marking the first tangible use of the $240 million mixed-use development.
The garage, located near 23rd Street and Grant Avenue, will initially be used by employees of the nearby courthouse before gradually opening to the public later this winter. According to Ogden’s Deputy Director David Sawyer, this is a key milestone that brings the vision for downtown revitalization closer to reality.
A Glimpse Into the WonderBlock Vision
The WonderBlock project is one of Ogden’s most ambitious urban developments to date. Designed as a modern mixed-use hub, it aims to transform the area into a vibrant community destination with residential, commercial, and entertainment spaces.
The project’s major components include:
- 356 residential units built around the parking structure
- 113,000 square feet of Class A office space
- 49,000 square feet of retail areas (including space for a potential grocery store)
- A 92-room boutique hotel
- Two parking garages offering over 1,100 parking stalls
Construction officially began in January 2024, and full completion is expected by late 2027 or early 2028. However, with the parking facility ready for use, the community will begin to see functional benefits even before the larger project is finished.
Why the Garage Opening Matters
Parking has long been a challenge in Ogden’s downtown corridor. The opening of the new WonderBlock garage is expected to ease congestion, improve access for courthouse staff, and support nearby businesses.
City officials emphasized that while the structure will first serve as employee parking, it will soon become available to the general public, helping attract more visitors to the area. Once wrapped with surrounding residential and retail units, the garage will integrate seamlessly into the new streetscape, blending utility with design.
Sawyer noted that the completion of this first phase is “a visible sign that WonderBlock is moving from planning to reality.” The city also confirmed that work on retail spaces and the hotel will progress steadily throughout 2026.
A Solution for Downtown’s “Food Desert”
One of the most anticipated features of WonderBlock is the inclusion of a grocery store, designed to address Ogden’s downtown food accessibility gap. Negotiations with potential retail tenants are ongoing, with developers confirming that the space will be compact and urban-friendly — ideal for residents within walking distance.
This addition aims to not only serve new WonderBlock tenants but also benefit thousands of downtown residents currently underserved by grocery options.
Economic and Social Impact
The WonderBlock project is seen as a catalyst for Ogden’s economic growth, expected to create new jobs, attract private investment, and expand the city’s tax base. The development will also introduce hundreds of new housing units, addressing the region’s increasing demand for affordable and mixed-income housing.
Mayor Mike Caldwell has previously described WonderBlock as “a once-in-a-generation opportunity to redefine downtown Ogden’s identity.” As the first components open to the public, the project promises to usher in a new era of urban living and local business vitality.
What’s Next for WonderBlock
- Public use of the parking structure expected later this year
- Residential construction to continue through 2026
- Hotel opening targeted for early 2027
- Retail tenant announcements anticipated in mid-2026
- Project completion forecasted by 2028
With progress now visible on-site, WonderBlock is transforming from blueprint to reality — a modern cornerstone for the heart of Ogden.
