West Valley City, today Utah’s second-largest municipality, is a young city with old roots. Officially incorporated in 1980, the city may lack the century-old institutions of places like Salt Lake City or Provo, but its community story stretches back much further—beginning in 1848 when Joseph and Susanna Harker became the first settlers to cross the Jordan River and establish homes in the western part of the Salt Lake Valley.

The early area known as Granger began taking shape in 1866, when new settlers pushed westward, carving farmland from the sagebrush and desert soil. Many of the pioneering families who built this foundation—like the Rasmussens, Hemways, Warrs, Parkses, Holmbergs, McLachlan and Bangerters—still have descendants living in the area today.

By the 1870s, canals carried Jordan River water across the valley floor, enabling more expansive agriculture. Settlements like Hunter began to flourish thanks to water access and families such as the Rushtons, Hansens, and Days. Life centered around farms, churches, and close-knit community traditions.

A Growing Community on the Move

As the 20th century dawned, Granger and Hunter were modest but thriving farming communities. The 1900 census recorded 617 residents in Granger and 354 in Hunter. By 1918, the first paved road—3500 South—linked neighbors and commerce. Then came electricity, interurban rail service, and the automobile, further connecting this west side of the valley to the rest of Salt Lake County.

Following World War II, suburban growth surged. The formation of the Granger-Hunter Improvement District in 1950 brought essential water and sewer services, making large-scale housing development possible. Farms began to shrink, and neighborhoods replaced fields. Businesses popped up along Redwood Road and 3500 South, catering to a growing population. Yet, without incorporation, the area’s growth lacked local control, often leading to zoning and infrastructure challenges.

The Birth of a City

Frustrated by haphazard growth and lack of investment from Salt Lake County officials, residents began organizing through civic groups like the Lions Club, Rotary, and Daughters of the Utah Pioneers. In 1964, the Granger-Hunter Community Council was formed, eventually leading to a push for incorporation.

After a failed attempt in 1978, West Valley City was successfully incorporated on July 1, 1980. The new city’s first mayor, Hank Price, and commissioners Renee Mackay and Jerry Wagstaff had to personally fund basic services like gas for police vehicles. Though a disincorporation vote appeared on the ballot just a week after the city’s founding, the community voted to remain, and the foundation for today’s city was laid.

From Struggles to Strength

The early 1980s were economically difficult, but the new city’s leadership kept it afloat. By 1990, West Valley City had its own city hall—paid for in cash—and was beginning to see major developments. The Family Fitness Center, Hale Centre Theatre, and the E-Center (now Maverik Center) followed. When the 2002 Winter Olympics came to Utah, West Valley hosted Olympic ice hockey, cementing its place on the international stage.

A Tapestry of Diversity and Resilience

As new immigrants came to Utah in the late 20th century, many settled in West Valley City. Its affordable housing and welcoming environment attracted Southeast Asian refugees, Pacific Islanders, Latino families, and others. By 2010, West Valley City became Utah’s most ethnically diverse city, with 45% of its population identifying as minorities.

In response, the city leaned into its strengths. The Utah Cultural Celebration Center, opened in 2003, became a hub for cultural events and education. A citywide English Language Initiative, launched in 2011, supported multilingual families and strengthened neighborhood connections.

A City Coming Into Its Own

Today, West Valley City is thriving. Crime rates are falling, infrastructure is improving, and new businesses and industries are taking root. Light rail brings convenient access. Granger High School and the Valley Fair Mall are being rebuilt, and civic pride is at an all-time high. Residents boast about the city’s parks, neighbors, and central location.

What began as remote farmland “Over Jordan” in the mid-1800s is now a dynamic, forward-looking city with a rich past and a bright future. West Valley City is no longer just a suburb of Salt Lake—it’s a community with its own unique identity, resilience, and heart.