Rupp Arena to be renovated for the Kentucky Wildcats
By Joe Nardone
Jan 21, 2014; Lexington, KY, USA; Kentucky Wildcats head coach John Calipari reacts to a play during the game against the Texas A&M Aggies in the second half at Rupp Arena. Kentucky defeated Texas A&M 68-51. Mandatory Credit: Mark Zerof-USA TODAY Sports
The rich keep getting richer or something like that. Really, more along the lines of the rich putting their own money back into what made them rich. Which, you know, is a smart thing to do. Here is what I am trying to say, in the most roundabout way as possible, the Kentucky Wildcats are going to receive a renovated Rupp Arena via Lexington officials.
On Monday, Lexington officials announced the plans to clean up the 38-year-old building that will modernize it as a stand-alone facility with a glass-and-steel appearance. Probably longer overdue than most people realize.
According to reports the plan will have a $310 million budget. Another cool $65 million are expected to come from state bonds. The finished product of the newly, freshly minted Rupp Arena is expected to be finished by the fall of 2017.
While Rupp Arena’s naming rights will also be up for auction, a spokesperson did say that the name “Rupp Arena” will definitely still be featured with the fancy new redesign.
This is pretty neat. Especially if you are a fan of the Kentucky Wildcats. Not only are you going to get a new-ish like building, but it will probably come with all the comforts a top-tier program deserves to have.
Hunt Construction Group (from Indianapolis) will take care of the renovation.