Kevin Costner’s Film Studio Coming to St. George, Bringing New Opportunities to Southern Utah
By Staff
St. George – In a major development for Southern Utah, Kevin Costner is bringing his vision to life with the creation of Territory Film Studios in St. George. The new facility promises to have a significant impact on both the local economy and the state’s growing film industry.
Costner’s upcoming film, Horizon, marks the largest film production to ever be filmed in Utah, according to Joyce Kelly, sales manager for the Greater Zion Convention and Tourism Office. Kelly, who worked closely with Costner to scout filming locations in Southern Utah, said the actor and director quickly fell in love with the area’s unique landscape.
“We’re thrilled that Kevin decided to build the studio here in St. George,” Kelly said. “It’s going to be a game changer for our local film industry and economy.”
The collaboration with local officials continued to grow when Burgess, a local production manager, was called upon to help secure a temporary filming location for Horizon. Now, with the new studio on the horizon, local leaders are excited about the opportunity for Southern Utah’s budding film industry to thrive.
The studio will provide significant benefits, not just for local filmmakers, but also for the state’s workforce. Kelly highlighted the potential for local film students, many of whom graduate from film programs in Utah without opportunities to stay in-state. “We have about 4,000 students studying film in Utah’s higher education institutions, but there are few incentives for them to stay here after graduation,” she said. “With the studio, our students will have the chance to work on major productions, and the film industry provides wages that support families.”
Construction of Territory Film Studios is set to begin in the fall of 2024, promising a bright future for Southern Utah’s creative community.
Other New Developments in St. George
Alongside the excitement surrounding the new film studio, city leaders are also looking forward to several other exciting projects set to enhance St. George’s growth. One notable development includes a luxury movie theater and bowling alley to be built near Desert Color, a large master-planned community located just off the Southern Parkway. Though specifics are limited, this addition promises to offer entertainment options for both locals and visitors.
Further developments are also in the works, including a medical campus from Intermountain Healthcare, which will be located on 30 acres just east of I-15. A new Utah Tech University campus and innovation district will be constructed on a 183-acre site, signaling growth in both education and technology for the area.
New Civic and Cultural Projects
St. George is also preparing for the completion of its new $45 million city hall, a project that will significantly expand the city’s administrative capacity. Located at 61 S. Main Street, the new facility will include a public parking structure and a civic space that will benefit the local community.
St. George is also making strides in embracing its unique heritage, with plans for an interpretive trail at Pioneer Park to educate visitors and residents about the area’s early settlers and Native American history.
In addition, the city will host the inaugural Dixie Days, an annual event dedicated to celebrating the region’s history and culture, featuring rodeos, arts, music, and food.
A Growing Future for St. George
St. George is in the midst of significant growth, as evidenced by the 617 permits issued for single-family homes last year, down from 836 the year before, and the 416 permits for multifamily housing. The total value of building permits issued in 2023 was $328.5 million, and the city is on track for even greater development in 2024.
St. George City Manager John Willis reported a strong start to the year, with $77 million in permits issued in January alone. With population and business growth steadily increasing, the city is focused on sustainability, particularly water conservation. Since 2022, the city has removed 279,000 square feet of sod, saving nearly 18 million gallons of water annually.
“The city is growing rapidly, and so is our commitment to sustainability,” Willis said. “It’s a testament to how our community is doing its part.”
