The University of Utah has unveiled proposals to completely redevelop the university’s campus, including construction of a new basketball and gymnastics arena.
KSL Sports said the plans include a completely transformational process to turn the university into a college “town” centered around housing, food, recreation and wellness venues for up to 14,000 students.
One of the main changes will be the relocation of the Jon M. Huntsman Center, which means a new arena would be built for the men’s and women’s basketball programs, as well as women’s gymnastics.
The University of Utah is a public research university in Salt Lake City, Utah (US). It is the flagship institution of the Utah System of Higher Education.
The Jon M. Huntsman Center is a 15,000-seat indoor arena on the campus of the University of Utah. It is the home of the Utah Utes of the Big 12 Conference, the primary venue for basketball and gymnastics.
Utah Athletics director Mark Harlan said the university will now begin a thorough process to identify the new location and plans for a new arena.
He said, “The Jon M. Huntsman Center has been central in our discussions, as it has played a prominent role in our storied history as an athletics program, and it remains a vital facility in our present landscape.
“We have evaluated the most strategic approach to the future of the Huntsman Center, and it is exciting now to see clarity within President Randall’s comprehensive vision to create College Town Magic on our fantastic campus.
“This unprecedented project will positively impact future generations of U students, and this announcement is simply the start of a process that will include an even brighter future for our athletics facilities as a key piece of this plan, including the relocation of the Huntsman Center.”
University President Taylor Randall told the Board of Trustees at a March meeting. “I want to make it clear that we have not decided where the new arena should go and that we need to study the economics, the location, the parking, the access. Events will continue at our current Huntsman Center until a new arena is constructed.”
The board authorized campus leaders to explore new locations. Recommendations, along with the potential cost, will be due to the board by September.
Harlan added, “I want to assure you that the process to identify the ideal location for a new arena will be very thorough, comprehensive and inclusive. We will have the opportunity to explore a completely reimagined in-venue experience to serve our athletics programs and our great fans who support our teams.
“This process will evolve over several years, and we will work closely with university leadership and campus planners, and seek significant input from fans, donors and the surrounding community.”
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