NAU has unveiled plans to renovate the Fieldhouse into an event facility that would serve as a new home for the NAU men’s and women’s basketball teams.

The Fieldhouse has served as the temporary recreation center for the past year and a half while the current recreation center undergoes construction, set to open in fall 2011 as the new Health and Wellness Center.

NAU Associate Vice President and Interim Chief Facilities Manager Jane Kuhn outlined details of the possible renovations.

“It would also be used for concerts, speakers, intramural and club sports; it will really be a multi-use facility,” Kuhn said. “The project is part of the university’s master plan, which eventually will include a core area for student and community events, including Ardrey Auditorium, Cline Library, the Native American Cultural Center and the renovated Fieldhouse.”

The lighting, sound, surface and seating would all be improved to “provide a more intimate environment for the fans,” Kuhn said.

Locker rooms for both teams would also be added, as well as offices for the coaching staffs.

University fundraising and state funding will finance the project, which will cost an estimated $28 million.

The new Fieldhouse might open as soon as spring 2013 but could be delayed because of funding and approval.

“There are still many steps in the process to get this project underway,” Kuhn said. “We have to get approval from the Arizona Board of Regents, raise a portion of the costs of the renovation through community donations, [and] have it designed and constructed.”