You’ve probably heard the good news: The CBS hit series “Marshals” is returning to Summit and Wasatch counties this spring and summer to film season two. That’s a real win for Park City and our regional economy.
“Marshals”, along with four other recently announced state-incentivized productions, are projected to generate $69.5 million and more than 1,000 jobs across six counties this year. Park City, and Summit and Wasatch counties are crucial production hubs, with “Marshals” second season once again headquartered at Park City’s Utah Film Studios. The production’s multi-episode scope means significant shoulder-season support for hotels, restaurants, vendors and service providers through crew hiring, lodging, location fees and local spending.
Utah’s film incentive program deserves significant credit for this momentum. Over the past decade, incentivized productions have generated more than $736 million in economic impact statewide. In 2025 alone, more than 35 productions filmed across 14 counties, including Summit and Wasatch, creating over 2,600 jobs and $136 million in spending.
The Rural Utah Film Incentive Program, especially valuable for our region, has generated more than $200 million across 28 counties since 2022.
Independent analysis by Olsberg SPI, commissioned by the Motion Picture Association of Utah, shows an impressive return: roughly $7 in economic activity for every $1 incentivized.
Park City’s “Film Ready” certification further strengthens our position, making it easier for the Utah Film Commission to promote our area and route productions here.
What makes the industry particularly sustainable for Park City is its concentrated, high-value spending with relatively modest impact on housing, traffic, trails and infrastructure.
Utah and Park City support filmmakers who want to reduce their footprint even more through the Guideline to Green Production and resources from the Sustainable Entertainment Alliance, covering everything from set construction to donating leftover food.
Beyond the direct dollars, these productions showcase our dramatic landscapes and authentic settings to national and international audiences. A compelling scene often sparks quick searches (“Where was that filmed?”), leading viewers to Utah’s beauty and excitement in seconds.
As we know, film professionals tend to be creative, energetic and adventurous — the kind of visitors who naturally align with our Mountainkind values. When they have a positive experience here, it often leads to return visits and enthusiastic word-of-mouth about Park City within their wide professional networks.
As Hollywood continues to spread productions (and costs) across the country and globe, Utah must stay competitive. Our state currently offers a refundable 20% tax credit on qualified in-state spending (increasing to 25% when certain criteria are met, such as local hiring), plus sales tax exemptions and hotel incentives.
Other Western states offer similar packages, and we continue working closely with the Utah Film Commission to keep legislators informed and ensure Utah remains a top-tier destination.
We’re delighted to welcome “Marshals” (and Luke Grimes) back to the area. The film industry is a natural fit for us: it has low environmental and infrastructure impact, generates meaningful spending and high-wage jobs, builds strong connections to creative communities, and showcases our region to the world.
With sensible incentives, strong facilities, and unmatched scenery, Summit and Wasatch Counties are well-positioned to keep playing a starring role.
Jennifer Wesselhoff is the president and CEO of the Park City Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Bureau.