New training center unveiled for plumbers, pipefitters,. welders

The new Utah Career Center, located at 640 No. Billy Mitchell Road in the Salt Lake City International Center, was constructed as a joint effort of the United Association of Plumbers, Pipefitters, Welders and HVAC&R Service Technicians Local 140 and the Utah Mechanical Contractors Association. The building itself is a Gold LEED-certified facility and one of the most environmentally friendly structures in the state. The 33,000 square-foot, nearly $7-million building contains high efficiency heating and air conditioning systems, relies on natural light to brighten much of its interior and contains fly ash — a recyclable bi-product of coal — in its concrete floors.

In addition, the new career center will play in training the plumbers, pipefitters,welders and heating,air conditioning, ventilation and refrigeration services technicians of the future. “We have state-of-the-art classrooms and hands-on training labs where our apprentices will be able to learn the skills they need to eventually become journeymen in the pipe trades,” Training Director, Dan Smith said. Salt Lake Tribune

New low-income, refugee housing underway

Construction began Tuesday on new affordable housing for refugees, the homeless and low-income Utahns in East Millcreek, fulfilling a long-held community goal of providing more living space for newcomers. Nearly one-third of the 136 units at Bud Bailey Apartments will be designated for refugees. They will likely inhabit many of the larger apartments, which are often difficult to find in Salt Lake Valley.

The complex, slated to be completed by the end of 2012, will also include 10 apartments for homeless youth and 5 apartments for homeless families. The rest of the approximately 207,000 square foot, green complex, which will draw a large amount of its power from solar panels, will be available for any low-income population. Phase one of the project, 59 units and a community center, will be completed by Dec. 31, 2011. Funding for the $23 million complex will come from federal stimulus dollars, low-income tax credits and Olene Walker Housing Loan Fund money. Salt Lake Tribune