AECOM pioneered the future of the University of Illinois’ State Farm Center with modernized amenities, iconic design and unmatched experiences.
November 29, 2016, marked the successful and much anticipated Phase 6 opening of this historic venue. AECOM’s commitment to the university and the project spanned a decade and included multiple feasibility studies, master planning work and ultimate completion of the $127M design and construction project.
Sophisticated coordination with the university and construction manager provided for construction to be accomplished in six phases over three years allowing for uninterrupted seasons of home basketball games. The project used a comprehensive feasibility planning scope, which included detailed cost, scheduling and economics/ ROI analysis to support the creation of a capital campaign to fund the improvements. The project began with defining the optimal plan for boosting revenue from the landmark 16,500-seat arena and developing a redevelopment business strategy to match valuable premium seating to the specific demand for sports and entertainment in central Illinois.
A total transformation of not only the seating bowl environment, which includes new premium seating products and resolves existing sight line issues, but also site circulation, entry and arrival experience, and concourse circulation were achieved. Enhanced basketball team suites were created providing Illini programs with the best in game-day support and amenities, including a shared “ready room” and a multipurpose room that doubles as both a team dining area convertible to a sleep room providing respite on long game days. Additional improvements included new entry lobbies, administrative offices, an Illini basketball hall of fame, dramatically improved concourses and creation of four new hospitality lounges. A total replacement of mechanical systems and controls, including air conditioning of the facility, replacement of building lighting/controls and electrical distribution system, as well as addressing code and ADA requirements were also part of the project scope. State Farm Center is eligible for listing on the National Register of Historic Places and has been designed to comply with historic preservation standards, University Design Guidelines and requirements. The arena received LEED Gold building certification for New Construction and Major Renovation.
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, State Farm Center Renovation + Addition
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, State Farm Center Renovation + Addition
