Tanner Fountains demolished

Demolition of the historic Tanner Fountains outside of the Taggart Student Center began on Thursday as the university prepares to replace the aging feature originally dedicated in 1980.

A passerby noted the fountain was being removed because it was discovered to be leaking thousands of gallons each day while running.

A view of the demolition of Tanner Fountain and Plaza on Thursday, May 12. The fountain was dedicated on May 31, 1980.

Fencing went up earlier in the week after the fountains were last seen running for the 135th Commencement activities for Utah State University on May 5. 

According to the USU Facilities website, contractors began demolition in conjunction with university work crews to replace the aged structure with estimates of construction taking most of the summer. 

A screenshot from the facilities website about the fountain demolition.

“There may be excessive noise, additional traffic on sidewalks, and some large equipment around the area,” the post reads. “Facilities wants you to please be aware and vigilant around this construction zone so we can keep our contractors and campus community as safe as possible.”

USU Special Collections lists the fountain space as being dedicated on May 31, 1980 and donated to the university by the O.C. Tanner Fountain. 

A view of the Tanner Fountain and Plaza, 1980. It was dedicated May 31, 1980. (Photo courtesy of USU Special Collections)

As reported by The Utah Statesman in 2007, the fountain space underwent extensive work to update the piping. The upgrades also included the addition of pumps allowing for the water to be recycled.

The space has been home to various concerts over the years and is also home to the Student Farmer’s Market hosted each fall.

The Event Services website lists the venue space adjacent to the fountain as over 3,000 square feet with the capacity of hosting 31 people.

This story will be updated by the Statesman as more information becomes available.