SALT LAKE CITY — The yearslong renovation of the historic Salt Lake Temple reached a visible milestone this week as crews began removing the massive scaffolding that has shrouded the structure’s iconic spires.
The removal process, which began Jan. 7, is expected to continue through mid-March. For several years, the temple was encased in steel to allow for extensive seismic upgrades, structural strengthening and exterior stone cleaning. The transition signals a shift from heavy exterior construction to the detailed finishing of the building’s interior.
Church officials confirmed the renovation project remains on track for completion by the end of 2026. Following the conclusion of construction, the public will be invited to a six-month open house and celebration throughout 2027.
Coinciding with the exterior progress, a new bronze statue titled “Restoration of the Sealing Keys” was installed Thursday northwest of the Salt Lake Tabernacle. Created by Utah artist Ben Hammond, the work depicts the Old Testament Prophet Elijah appearing to Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery in 1836.
“Once they moved all the construction equipment out of the way… I got a little emotional there,” Hammond said Thursday after the installation. “It was a good feeling.”
The statue is part of a broader series of artistic installations planned for Temple Square through 2027. These works are designed to illustrate the history and doctrines of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints for the millions of visitors who frequent the site annually.
Temple Square remains partially open to the public during the final phase of construction, with updated information and progress reports available at TempleSquare.org.