University of Utah officials are reconsidering whether to renovate or replace the historic Jon M. Huntsman Center as part of a large-scale campus development plan, according to reports from Preservation Utah on Monday. The university is currently evaluating potential upgrades to the existing arena as it works toward a long-term vision for transforming the campus landscape.
Previous relocation plans announced
The current review of the facility's future follows much earlier announcements regarding the potential relocation of the arena. At a March 11, 2025, meeting of the University of Utah Board of Trustees, President Taylor Randall presented a vision for campus transformation that included the future relocation of the Huntsman Center, according to a letter from Athletics Director Mark Harlan.
Shifting focus toward renovation
In that March 2025 communication, Harlan noted that the university had placed a high priority on examining the future of both competition and training facilities. He stated that the relocation was part of a comprehensive vision intended to create what leadership called "College Town Magic" on the campus. While the initial framework focused on moving the arena, recent developments indicate that officials are now looking at whether the existing structure can be modernized instead.
Preservationists monitor development changes
The uncertainty surrounding the arena's future has drawn attention from preservation advocates. Preservation Utah reported on June 29, 2026, that while plans for the Huntsman Center remain under review, university officials indicated in early 20CO6 that they are reconsidering previous concepts that focused solely on replacement. This shift toward evaluating a renovation of the existing building is part of broader athletics and campus planning efforts.
Potential threats to architectural legacy
Despite the possibility of renovation, the long-term future of the venue remains unconfirmed. The primary threat identified by preservationists stems from the university's broader goal to transition away from a commuter-focused campus, which could lead to the arena being replaced by newer developments that may overshadow its architectural legacy.
Architectural features and history
The Jon M. Huntsman Center, originally known as the Special Events Center, has been a landmark of the University of Utah since it opened in 1969. Designed by architect Bruce H. Jensen, the arena is renowned for its unique architectural features, most notably its Triax Dome. This monumental wood structure possesses a 364-foot diameter and was once recognized as the largest clear-span wood dome in the world.
Unique structural design elements
In addition to the dome, the arena features a 120-ton steel "cloud" suspended from the ceiling. This 98-foot diameter structure is essential to the facility's operations, supporting the scoreboard, lighting, and sound systems. The arena was renamed in 1987 to honor philanthropist Jon M. Huntsman, a significant supporter of the university.
Beyond its architectural significance, the arena has hosted several of the most important moments in collegiate sports history. It has served as a venue for NCAA postseason competitions, including basketball tournaments, gymnastics championships, and volleyball events. One of its most famous historical moments occurred in 1979 during the "Dream Match-Up," featuring Indiana State's Larry Bird against Michigan State's Magic Johnson.
While primarily used for athletics, the facility has also functioned as a cultural hub for the Salt Lake City community, hosting concerts, university commencements, and various community events. The arena's design, which includes an unobstructed-view layout and a circular concourse, was engineered to provide excellent sightlines for spectators from every angle.
The facility has undergone several modernization efforts over the decades to maintain its functionality. A $6 million renovation completed in 2014 introduced a super-grid ceiling, upgraded sound systems, and energy-efficient LED lighting to improve the fan experience. More recently, Utah Athletics announced changes to the seating arrangements inside the center.
As the university continues its planning process, some athletic facilities are confirmed to be staying put. According to Mark Harlan's 2025 letter, while the Huntsman Center may relocate, the nearby Jon M. and Karen Huntsman Basketball Facility and the recently expanded Dumke Gymnastics Facility are intended to remain in their current locations.
As the university weighs its options, preservation advocates are calling for increased awareness and action to protect the building's history. Proposals from preservation groups include advocating for the arena's inclusion on the National Register of Historic Places and documenting the venue's history through photography and personal stories to ensure its architectural and cultural significance is not lost to newer campus developments.
