The University of St. Thomas is currently in the midst of constructing a new Division I arena on campus to accommodate basketball and hockey. However, some residents have voiced opposition to the project, raising concerns about parking, traffic, and environmental impacts. They 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. Don Waage, a spokesperson for the resident group Advocates for Responsible Development, has 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, and traffic problems.
On the other hand, Jerome Benner, director of Neighborhood and University Relations for the University of St. Thomas, has assured that they have been diligent about working with city and state agencies on the plans and addressing concerns from neighbors. He mentioned that the development underwent reviews by multiple agencies who did not find significant environmental impact from the arena.
Benner also stated that the University has conducted 16 listening sessions with neighbors to address their concerns and plans to implement shuttle services and pre-assigned parking to alleviate traffic and parking issues. He added 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.
