CHAMPAIGN, Ill. — The University of Illinois Campus Recreation has reached a pivotal moment in deciding the future of its historic ice arena. Following a student vote two years ago to preserve the 95-year-old facility, a comprehensive study examining potential renovations has now been completed.

Justin Peterson, the executive director of Campus Recreation, revealed that a team comprising architects and ice-arena specialists conducted the study. Their task was to evaluate two possibilities: either rejuvenating the existing structure or constructing a brand-new arena. Notably, should a new facility be built, the current ice arena would not meet the wrecking ball but would instead be repurposed for a different use.