Consultants recommend renovating the Alliant Energy Center’s Memorial Coliseum and investing in private development in an approximately $400 million strategic plan, according to a preliminary report presented to a county committee Friday.
The Chicago-based Hunden Strategic Partners’ draft feasibility study suggests adding two new hotels, expanding the existing Exhibition Hall, building connecting skyways across the 164-acre campus and creating more dining opportunities on a dubbed “Restaurant Road.”
A previous analysis conducted by Hammes Co. and supported by a study committee recommended a $500 million expansion plan that included demolishing and replacing the Coliseum.
“This is saveable,” Rob Hunden, one of the consultants, said of the Coliseum.
Hunden is recommending an approximately $105 million renovation and expansion of the Coliseum, which would preserve its well-known red band and domed roof. An updated AEC could host more events including regional indoor sports, dance and cheer tournaments, large conventions, more concerts and family shows and expand agricultural-oriented events and festivals.
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