UW Trustees Select Construction Manager for Phase 2 of A

With the first phase of improvements to the University of Wyoming’s Arena-Auditorium nearing completion, UW’s Board of Trustees today (Monday) authorized a contract with Laramie-based Haselden Wyoming Constructors for the second phase of improvements to UW’s basketball facility.

Phase 1 includes $13 million in renovations to the basketball court, seating bowl and locker room level, changes slated for completion before the Nov. 16 start of the 2014-15 basketball season. Phase 2, scheduled to begin after the season -- along with any postseason home games -- includes building additions and renovations to the concourse and spectator services on the concourse level, at an estimated cost of $17 million. That work is expected to continue until October 2016.

Haselden was selected as construction manager at risk from among three finalist companies, all Wyoming firms.

Funding for Phase 2 comes from $5 million in state appropriations, $6 million in private donations and $6 million in state matching funds.

The work will include an addition to the east side of the A-A, which will provide a new major façade and two new entry lobbies. Within the addition will be a new club room that includes views of the court and a Hall of Fame area. The concourse will be renovated with improved concession and merchandise areas, restrooms, a fire suppression system and an upgraded appearance. A new central ticket office will be created to serve the A-A and War Memorial Stadium, along with a concession commissary. An elevator will be installed to access the arena floor, connected with restrooms, a media room and new storage areas.

Also today, the Board of Trustees discussed a potential tuition policy, a nonresident tuition discount and scholarship plan, and UW’s relationship with the Western Research Institute. The board may consider action on those topics at its regular November meeting Nov. 12-14.