The revenue-sharing era in college athletics has reshaped the landscape at the University of Kentucky. One of their first moves was transitioning the athletic department into an LLC, allowing for more strategic revenue generation.
Enter the ambitious plan for an entertainment district near Kroger Field, the hub of Kentucky football and the university's biggest revenue driver. This project aims to boost earnings on game days and attract business year-round, providing a steady stream of income for the athletic department.
Entertainment districts are becoming a staple in college sports. Kentucky's leadership, inspired by the Deer District in Milwaukee during last year’s NCAA Tournament, sees the potential.
Oklahoma has cleared the way for the Rock Creek Entertainment District, a billion-dollar project that includes a new basketball arena. Tennessee is also jumping on the bandwagon with plans near Neyland Stadium.
While Kentucky's project is still in the planning stages, the UK Board of Trustees athletics committee recently reviewed four proposals from the architecture firm Sasaki for the Kroger Field entertainment district.
Exploring the Proposals
- The Cooper Connector: This proposal involves significant construction on the north side of Kroger Field, replacing buildings currently occupied by BCTC.
- The Linear Corridor: Positioned on the west side of the stadium along University Drive, this plan includes a facelift for the red, blue, and orange lots, with new parking garages nearby.
- University Crossroads: This option suggests relocating the Hillary J. Boone Tennis Complex near Kentucky Proud Park, with a new building replacing the current intramural fields.
- Central Green: Proposes a large green space in the current red lot, surrounded by buildings for future tenants in the entertainment district.
Kevin Locke, UK’s associate VP for planning, design, and construction, addressed concerns about parking-a critical issue given the campus's growth and previous frustrations from football fans. The solution may involve constructing a parking structure to replace surface parking.
The timeline for the entertainment district is still uncertain, contingent on securing funding. UK officials are working towards a final plan, with construction estimates to follow.
Another Development on the Horizon
Beyond the Kroger Field project, UK is eyeing a new basketball practice facility. The Board of Trustees has approved the $3.9 million purchase of property at the corner of Rose Street and Avenue of Champions.
This site, currently housing several businesses, could become a smaller entertainment district for fans attending events at Historic Memorial Coliseum or serve as the location for the practice facility. For now, existing tenants will remain through their lease terms.
The University of Kentucky is clearly positioning itself for the future, with these projects signaling a bold step into a new era of college athletics.