The university, however, does not need approval from the various governing bodies, but would only like to work with the community to "create mutually exclusive benefits," Perez said, "making it a win-win for all involved."

Upon development of the concept — if the opportunity can be identified — he said the project would need approval from the U.'s Board of Trustees, the state Board of Regents, the state Building Board and ultimately the Utah State Legislature.

"It's my hope there will be a number of developers who see this as an intriguing, interesting and exciting project and would be interested in pursuing it," Perez said. The "cool, ingenious" idea, he said, would be a way to not only spice up the appearance of campus, but wrap up existing mass transit opportunities and the various stadium and community events held in the area in a nice package.

The Salt Lake City Historic Landmark Commission will be hearing the project's request for qualifications next week, with the Planning Commission scheduled to advise on the process April 9.

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E-mail: wleonard@desnews.com