UCA Shares Vision for Multipurpose Arena at December Board Meeting

The University of Central Arkansas Board of Trustees held its regularly scheduled meeting Friday, Dec. 5, where members saw conceptual renderings of a proposed multipurpose arena following a recent feasibility study.

WER Architects shared findings from the multipurpose arena feasibility study, which outlined a plan to replace the 53-year-old Farris Center with a new 116,000 square feet multipurpose arena, based on conceptual design. Serving as the future home of UCA men’s and women’s basketball, the proposed arena will provide game seating for 2,650, a full practice gym and basketball operations space, as well as the ability to host other large events such as commencement ceremonies (3,000 seats), concerts (3,600 seats) and special events (up to 1,200 seats). With its proposed location just north of Estes Stadium on Bruce Street, the arena will close in the north end zone for football and include football locker rooms and operations space for Bears Football.

With the feasibility study completed, WER Architects, in conjunction with associate architect HKS, will begin the design phase of the arena. Once approved by the board, construction could begin in 2027.

“Seeing the early concepts for this facility underscores just how transformational it could be for our campus,” UCA President Houston Davis said. “A modern, flexible facility will not only elevate the experience for our student-athletes, but also strengthen our ability to host major events that bring our community together. As we move into the design phase, we are committed to thoughtful planning that supports the long-term needs of our students, our athletics programs and the broader UCA community.”