New Division I Arena Coming to the University of St. Thomas, But Concerns Over Parking, Traffic and Environmental Impacts Cause Protests

The University of St. Thomas is set to construct a new Division I arena on campus, with facilities for both basketball and hockey. However, the construction process has sparked concerns among some local residents about parking, traffic, and potential environmental impacts. In response, “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 further by appealing the site plan approval with the City of St. Paul, resulting in a pause in construction until the matter is resolved.

Despite opposition from some residents, the university remains committed to moving forward with their plans and opening the new arena in the fall of 2025. The goal is to provide students and athletes with a facility that can accommodate Division I level basketball and hockey games. While there are challenges to address, such as parking and traffic management, the university is determined to work with the community to ensure that the arena benefits all parties involved.

In response to concerns about parking and traffic, Jerome Benner, director of Neighborhood and University Relations for the University of St. Thomas, emphasized that they have collaborated with city and state agencies on the plans, as well as held multiple listening sessions with neighbors to address their concerns. Benner also mentioned that shuttle services and pre-assigned parking will be utilized to alleviate traffic issues on most nights when the 5,400-seat arena will not be full.

Don Waage, spokesperson for Advocates for Responsible Development, stated that while they understand the benefits of having a new arena on campus for students and athletes, they prefer that the university find a different site due to numerous problems surrounding parking, greenhouse gas emissions