Arena Construction Pauses at University of St. Thomas Amid Resident Opposition

The University of St. Thomas is currently constructing a new Division I arena on campus that will accommodate basketball and hockey. However, there has been opposition from some residents who have raised concerns about parking, traffic, and environmental impacts. Some residents have even gone as far as posting “Just Say No” signs in their yards. One group of residents has taken the step to appeal the site plan approval with the City of St. Paul, resulting in a pause in construction until the appeal is settled.

Jerome Benner, director of Neighborhood and University Relations for the University of St. Thomas, expressed that they have been diligent about working with city and state agencies on the plans, as well as addressing concerns from neighbors. He stated that most nights, the 5,400-seat arena will not be at full capacity, with only four games a year planned to be at capacity. The University aims to open the new arena in the fall of 2025.

On the other hand, Don Waage, a spokesperson for the resident group Advocates for Responsible Development, expressed that they would like the university to consider a different site for the arena that would address issues such as parking, greenhouse gas emissions