When it was decided that the area south of the existing Rice-Eccles Stadium would be dedicated to the installation of the Olympic Cauldron, Hoberman Arch, interpretive displays and a visitor's center, the firm of Van Boerum & Frank Associates was retained to design the infrastructure to operate the various features of the venue.

VBFA was already familiar with the requirements of designing world class venues. They previously designed the Bobsled/Luge Track in Park City, the Speed Skating Oval in Kearns and the Ogden Ice Sheet. They also were engineers of record for the other venues during the 2002 Olympic Winter Games. This latest contribution to engineering excellence allows the cauldron to be lit whenever permission is granted. A 150-ton fluid cooler maintains the water temperature within the burning cauldron at a safe level preventing the glass from breaking.

This now permanent installation delighted spectators at both the one-year anniversary in February, 2003, and the plaza grand opening ceremonies in August, 2003.

The Legacy Theater in the visitor's center is also a mark for engineering innovation. The rooms are kept quiet through special sound attenuating devices and design. The temperature in the theater is maintained cooler than normal for the chilled winter like feeling. During the movie presentation mist generated from mineral oil is pumped into the theater for a cloud like effect. Special filters extract and retain for reuse this common household substance that appears as clouds during the presentation.