In Boise, Dave Southorn noted Boise State has "received estimates" for upgrades to Taco Bell Arena that include a "new video board, sound system and LED signage courtside and between the first and second levels of the arena." But the cost will be a "potential hurdle." Boise State AD Mark Coyle said that he "does not want to take on more debt," as the school is "trying to pay off" the $22M Bleymaier Football Center and the Stueckle Sky Center. But he added that fundraising efforts "are under way to help arena upgrades." Men's basketball coach Leon Rice: "We need to give the fans a better experience, and new screens would absolutely be a big part of that" (IDAHO STATESMAN, 3/3).
NO PLACE LIKE HOME: In Topeka, Eric Smith noted Kansas State and AD John Currie will "continue the master plan" of upgrading Bill Snyder Family Stadium and the Vanier Family Football Complex thanks to a recent $20M donation from the Jack Vanier family and other "record philanthropic giving" in the past three years. Planned improvements include "a new academic learning center, new football operations offices, a new sports medicine facility and new strength and conditioning spaces." The school also plans to "upgrade fan amenities in the north end zone seating area" (TOPEKA CAPITAL-JOURNAL, 3/2).
BIG BLUE SEA: Proposed renovation plans for Utah State's Romney Stadium have been formally approved by the school's Board of Trustees. Renovations will focus on improving the fan experience on both the east and west side of the stadium. On the west side, a new press box will be built that will include suites, club seats and loge boxes. In addition, new video boards will be installed on both the north and south ends of Romney Stadium (USU).
CALIFORNIA DREAMIN': In L.A., Chris Foster noted UCLA's fundraising efforts to build a new football practice facility have "produced a little more than" $30M, up more than $3M since October. A school official declined to say "how much money was in hand and how much was in pledges." The facility is "expected to cost" around $50M (LATIMES.com, 3/4).
