The University of St. Thomas is currently constructing a new Division I arena on campus for basketball and hockey, but this has caused concerns among some residents in the area about issues such as parking, traffic, and potential environmental impacts. As a result, “Just Say No” signs have been placed in yards as a form of protest against the arena. One group of residents even took their concerns to the next level by appealing the site plan approval with the City of St. Paul. This has led to a pause in construction until the matter is resolved.
Don Waage, a spokesperson for the resident group Advocates for Responsible Development, stated that they would prefer the University to find a different site for the arena due to numerous problems surrounding parking, greenhouse gas emissions, and traffic. Jerome Benner, director of Neighborhood and University Relations for the University of St. Thomas emphasized that they have collaborated with various city and state agencies on the plans, as well as held multiple listening sessions with neighbors to address their concerns.
Despite opposition from some residents, the University of St. Thomas intends to move forward with its plans and open the new arena in the fall of 2025. The goal is to provide a facility that can accommodate basketball and hockey games at the Division I level and offer students and athletes a space to enjoy.
While there are challenges to address, such as parking and traffic management, Jerome Benner reassured that shuttle services will be utilized to alleviate these issues on most nights when only 5,400-seat arena will not be full.
The university is committed to working with its community members to ensure that this facility benefits everyone involved while addressing their concerns about parking, traffic management and environmental impact.
