In introducing the mayor, local real-estate broker Vasilios Priskos gave Anderson as a gift a book about ways that bridges contribute to communities, but Anderson retorted that the notion doesn't apply to skybridges, which offer "nothing inspiring. Nobody has a memorable experience" in a skybridge. The bridge, he said, has the potential to create "a bland, lifeless downtown."

He encouraged local business owners who worry about the effect of the bridge on their livelihoods to make their opposition known. He noted that the city plans to host a Sept. 28 open house on planning and urban design that will feature planning experts from across the country.

City Creek Center spokesman Dale Bills, who also attended the luncheon, declined to comment on the mayor's remarks.

Anderson also repeated calls to reform Utah's "absurd, self-destructive, inhospitable" alcohol laws as a way of boosting downtown nightlife and business success.

Beyond the points of contention, Anderson expressed hope in the future of downtown, saying, "We're launching into a very exciting period."

He noted that nine major redevelopment projects are in the works downtown, including City Creek Center, a new office tower at 222 S. Main and the extension of TRAX light rail to the new intermodal transportation hub.

"A dynamic, multifaceted downtown provides a stimulating gathering place for residents and visitors," he said. "A flourishing downtown encapsulates the rich diversity of our city."

He said that since he took office in 2000, city government has "aggressively" marketed its business assistance programs. As part of those efforts, the city has lent more than $9 million to businesses, a 13-fold increase over the 1991-99 period.

The merchants association also gave Downtown Alliance executive director Bob Farrington its Friend of the Retailer award.

Farrington praised local businesses, saying, "You're the face of our community. The barometer and benchmark of how our downtown does is represented by our businesses."

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E-mail: dsmeath@desnews.com