‘College Town Magic’: U of U Eyes New Arena, Possible Huntsman Move

The University of Utah is setting the stage for a decade-long redevelopment plan aimed at expanding student housing, upgrading facilities, and relocating the Jon M. Huntsman Center to make way for a vibrant campus hub.

The Campus Physical Development Framework, recently approved by the University’s Board of Trustees, is designed to accommodate increasing enrollment and enhance the overall student experience. A key component of this initiative is the creation of a “college town magic” district, where the Huntsman Center currently stands.

Six Districts to Shape the Future Campus

To streamline development, the University will divide the campus into six specialized districts:

Health district
Cultural district
Research park
Academic and research district
Athletics district
College town magic district

The “college town magic” district will serve as a social and residential hub, featuring new housing, dining, recreational spaces, and gathering areas. University officials emphasize that the goal is to create a more connected and engaging campus experience for students, faculty, and staff.

Moving the Huntsman Center: A Major Shift

A significant part of the redevelopment plan involves relocating the Jon M. Huntsman Center, which has been a campus landmark for 55 years. The domed arena currently serves as the home for basketball, gymnastics, volleyball, and major events, but university leaders say the facility is in need of an upgrade.

University of Utah Athletics Director Mark Harlan acknowledged the importance of modernizing sports venues, stating that the new arena will enhance the experience for athletes, coaches, and fans. The university plans to conduct a comprehensive review to determine the best location for the new facility.

Despite the relocation, the Jon M. and Karen Huntsman Basketball Facility and the Dumke Gymnastics Facility will remain unchanged. However, other athletic and health-related facilities in the southeast corner of campus may be affected as development progresses.

What’s Next?

The university will begin evaluating potential sites for the new arena and assessing cost estimates over the next year. By September 2025, a committee is expected to present its final recommendations regarding location, budget, and potential infrastructure improvements, such as parking and dining options.

Until construction begins, the Huntsman Center will continue to serve as the primary venue for basketball, gymnastics, and volleyball.

This ambitious redevelopment is expected to reshape the University of Utah’s campus, blending academics, athletics, and student life into a more dynamic and inclusive environment for years to come.

Author
Recent Posts

keelee-mccain

Keelee McCain is a junior at Weber High School. This is her second year on staff, this year as Assistant to the Chief. She does have a life (probably) but she can't think of anything to write in here, so she's probably just going to ramble now. She has an orange cat who she likes better than any human. If you see her being quiet or not sitting on top of a desk, there is something very wrong. In her free time she enjoys harassing her favorite teachers and sleeping. Her life plans include making it through high school and leaving. Happy lifeing.