DRAPER, Utah — Demolition began at the old state prison facilities in Draper Tuesday.

The decommissioned prison held its ground, though, as it took several attempts to knock down the decades-old prison guard tower.

This marked the first step toward redeveloping the site into The Point, a vision for a community full of opportunity and new beginnings.

Nestled between two of Utah’s biggest counties, The Point Executive Director said the redeveloped site will benefit generations to come by bringing in shops, entertainment, services, serving to connect trails, and so much more.

By bringing in these elements, the hope is that The Point becomes a distinct destination like Utah’s ski slopes, mountains, Temple Square, and red rock.

The transition from the old state prison facility to The Point is that of a bright future while respectfully remembering the past.

40 minutes later… the tower isn’t budging!

Decades of standing tall I guess doesn’t come down easy! 👀@KSL5TV pic.twitter.com/ahBT2XA6dJ

— Karah Brackin (@KB_ON_TV) November 29, 2022

Alan Matheson, The Point Executive Director, said, “This is a transition from aging, outdated infrastructure to brand new, exciting, future-focused community.”

In remembering the past, two pieces of the prison facilities will be preserved.

Those two pieces include the chapel as well as the Johnson Bar, which was used to open and close individual cells.

Both preserved elements are a piece of history, as the chapel is a place of redemption and hope for many. The Johnson Bar serves as a piece of unique history, as the only other place the Johnson bar’s been used is Alcatraz.

“Knocking this prison down is the beginning of the economic opportunity we’ve all strived for,” said Troy Walker, Draper City Mayor.

The Point executive director said over the next few weeks, and they expect to share details on the master plan for phase one of the project.