To the editor:

Recent discussion of the potential use of STAR bonds to finance development in Lawrence has overlooked a specific type of facility that would fill a local need and draw in visitors: a multipurpose ice arena with a retractable floor that can accommodate concerts; trade shows; graduation ceremonies; volleyball, basketball, and pickleball tournaments; gymnastics and martial arts competitions; holiday markets; and other regional events in addition to hockey and figure skating classes and competitions, as well as public skating.

Yes, some of these things are currently filling up – to capacity and beyond – at the Sports Pavilion Lawrence facility at Rock Chalk Park. But structurally, that building is limited to a much smaller list of potential uses than a multipurpose ice arena could accommodate.

Currently, figure skaters and hockey players in Lawrence must leave town for practice, coaching, and competitions. The KU hockey program’s “home” rink is in Overland Park. Shouldn’t KU hockey be in Lawrence? Why not build a multipurpose arena that can draw not only competitors and fans for multiple types of sports, but also host non-sports events and serve as a catalyst for the development of nearby retail and restaurant offerings, thereby increasing the sales tax revenue going to the city?

Recent proposals for the area west of the South Lawrence Trafficway have involved rather niche projects – a bicycle racing arena, a flight school, an RV park. A multipurpose arena that accommodates ice sports as well as a dozen other uses would be a far better bet on Lawrence’s future.

Sarah Nessel,

Lawrence