The second phase of renovations to the Arena Auditorium is delayed due to under-budgeting of the project as a whole.
“Due to estimated costs for the current plans of Phase II being higher than expected, we have delayed the construction timeline in an effort to re-design,” Tom Burman, University of Wyoming athletics director said.
The AA renovation as a whole started with a budget of $30 million. The first phase ended before the basketball season began in early November, and cost about $13 million. The second phase, which had an initial budget of $20 million was supposed to begin construction after this year’s basketball season. Now only $17 million of the budget remains.
Phase II focuses on the exterior of the building, mainly improvements to the concourse, a new Hall of Fame and new, well-lit entrance to the building.
“We will move forward only when we have a plan that meets our budget. We are confident we can have this resolved in the next six to nine months,” Burman said.
Randy Welniak, senior associate athletic director, said the delay would not affect UW fans’ experience.
“With the delay in Phase II of the AA renovation, there will be little impact on the alumni and fans. There was a significant improvement in fan amenities and atmosphere with Phase I (padded chairback seats, sound system, video boards, etc),” Welniak said via email.
Welniak said he feels they will still be able to improve the fan experience with a redeveloped second phase.
“We are still planning to provide some additional fan amenities such as improved restrooms, concession areas and a club area in Phase II. At this point it may just take a little longer. We do not know the exact timeline in regard to a construction start or completion date,” Welniak said.
