U. of Iowa Will Seek New Arts Buildings Away From the Iowa River

The University of Iowa has decided that it makes more sense to build a new performing-arts center away from the Iowa River than to repair its existing Hancher Auditorium, which was badly damaged in last year’s flood. The university has also decided against repairing a nearby art building.

According to the Press-Citizen, university officials say the issue isn’t only that the buildings could flood again, but also that flood insurance is tough to come by. Anyway, they say, they need more space.

They’ll ask the Iowa Board of Regents for permission to go ahead with site selection and planning for the new buildings. Replacing the performing-arts complex is expected to cost $246-million, while building a new facility to replace the Art Building East will run to $60-million. Insurance will cover some of the cost of each project.

The Hancher staff has turned to a variety of alternative venues for the current year’s programming, including high schools, churches, hotels, the university basketball arena, and a golf club.