BYU is planning to build a nine-story building at the MTC. If allowed to go forward, the resulting structure will be as tall as the Kimball Tower on BYU campus and one and one half times its width. A building of that height will completely change the character of this Provo neighborhood, blocking out the mountain views which give Provo its unique beauty. If this building is approved, it will permanently alter the character and trajectory of future development in all of Utah County. If you live in Lehi or Payson or elsewhere in the county, you need to be concerned about how this decision could affect your neighborhood in the near future. The height of the proposed building is not consistent with the Provo City Conditional Use Permits of 1974, 1976, and 1992. BYU has continually pushed against existing zoning restrictions in this area over the years, pushing large buildings closer and closer to neighboring residences and also raising the height restrictions. If approved, it is almost certain that the nine-story building will not be the end of it. Note that this plan affects many Provo neighborhoods, not just Pleasant View on the north side of the Marriott Center. The Kimball Tower is visible for miles north and south of Provo. Likewise, this building will mar the view off the hill from Oak Hills and Indian Hills. It will likewise spoil the unique mountain setting for the Provo Temple. Provo is a college town which draws its unique character from its mountain views. Provo's mountains are the envy of the entire Wasatch front. No city along the I-15 corridor has more beautiful views. While we agree that some development is necessary to keep up with the population growth, we must stress that sloppy growth will severely impact the character of Provo over time. Development must proceed very carefully so as to preserve as much of Provo's unique character as possible.

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