The University of Utah has launched a formal process to explore major renovation options for the Jon M. Huntsman Center, including the possibility of a partial rebuild of the 57-year-old arena. The university began distributing an online survey on Tuesday, June 30, to gather input from fans and stakeholders regarding the future of the historic facility.
Feasibility study and architectural partners
University of Utah Athletics announced that it has selected Populous and VCBO Architecture to conduct a comprehensive feasibility study. The investigation will examine a wide range of options intended to modernize and transform the arena, which serves as a primary venue for Utes athletics.
Structural integrity and seismic assessment
Beyond aesthetic or functional upgrades, the study is tasked with assessing the facility's structural integrity and seismic resiliency. The university also intends to evaluate the infrastructure necessary to support future generations of student-athletes, fans, and community events within the 15,000-seat venue.
Integration with campus development vision
The exploration of the Huntsman Center's future is a key component of President Taylor Randall’s "College Town Magic" vision. The university's Board of Trustees was presented with various options for the facility during a meeting in February 2029.
Strategic importance for campus footprint
The Huntsman Center's location sits at a focal point of the College Town Magic footprint. University officials noted that any decisions made regarding the future of the arena will be vital to the final designs and implementation of that campus development project.
Collecting community and stakeholder feedback
To ensure the renovation plans reflect the needs of the community, the university is soliciting direct feedback from a broad cross-section of stakeholders. This group includes ticket buyers, donors, business partners, and fans.
Survey details and specific focus areas
Emails containing links to a secure online survey began being sent on Tuesday, June 30. The university will accept responses through July 14. The survey asks participants to provide feedback on several specific areas of the arena experience, including:
- Arena access and parking
- Seating arrangements
- In-game entertainment and technology
- Premium offerings
- Concessions and restroom facilities
Mark Harlan, the Director of Athletics, expressed enthusiasm for the collaborative nature of the study. He noted that the university chose Populous and VCBO Architecture specifically because they are recognized leaders in the sports venue space.
"We want to hear from those who are so important to that experience—our fans and supporters," Harlan said. He added that whether the final result is a moderate renovation, a transformational renovation, or a partial rebuild, stakeholder input is essential to informing the design and gameday experience.
The Jon M. Huntsman Center has been a landmark on the University of Utah campus for over five decades. Originally opened in 1969 as the University of Utah Special Events Center, the facility is currently home to the university's men's basketball, women's basketball, gymnastics, and volleyball programs.
The arena has hosted significant athletic and community milestones, including NCAA Championship events and ancillary events for the 2023 NBA All-Star Weekend in Salt Lake City. The venue also serves as a site for high school commencements, area high school graduations, and various concerts.
University officials emphasized that the landscape of sports venue technology and amenities has changed significantly since the arena's inception. The feasibility study aims to address these shifts by exploring transformations that will better serve modern fans, teams, and the broader community.
