POCATELLO, Idaho–Idaho State University has announced plans to construct a new basketball arena and multipurpose event center at an estimated cost of $70 million to $80 million, with a major financial commitment from Idaho Central Credit Union helping launch the project.
According to the university, the planned ICCU Bengal Arena will be funded entirely through private donations, including a multiyear gift from the credit union through the Idaho State University Foundation. The amount of ICCU’s contribution was not disclosed.
The new facility will be constructed on the north side of the existing ICCU Dome along the Interstate 15 corridor on the university’s Pocatello campus.
“This is what transformational partnership looks like,” ISU President Robert Wagner said in a statement released by the university. “ICCU has believed in Idaho State for more than a decade, and once again they have stepped forward now, when our university and our community are ready to dream even bigger.”
What Is Planned
According to Idaho State University, the new arena will:
- Seat approximately 4,500 spectators, including traditional and premium seating.
- Include concession areas and a floor designed for basketball practices and competitions.
- Serve as a venue for concerts, high school state tournaments, trade shows and commencement ceremonies.
- Provide additional revenue opportunities for the university while increasing the visibility of its athletic programs.
The new facility will replace Reed Gymnasium as the home of Idaho State basketball. University officials said space constraints at Reed Gymnasium have significantly limited its use, while its seating capacity has restricted fan access.
Credit Union Cites Community Commitment
Idaho Central Credit Union President and CEO Brenda Worrell, an Idaho State graduate, said the contribution reflects the credit union’s longstanding relationship with the university and its commitment to the surrounding community.
“It’s part of who we are as a credit union to invest in the communities where our members live and work,” Worrell said in the university’s announcement.
ICCU is headquartered in the Pocatello-Chubbuck area and has supported Idaho State University for more than a decade.
Additional Fundraising Needed
Although the credit union’s gift provides an initial financial commitment, university officials emphasized that additional private fundraising will be necessary to complete the project.
Idaho State Athletic Director Pauline Thiros called on university supporters, alumni and community members to help fund the arena.
“This is a big, bold project, and it is going to take Bengals showing up,” Thiros said. “ICCU showed up first. Now it is our turn to rally around this type of leadership and build something that our region will be proud of for decades.”
University officials said the arena is expected to generate new revenue and strengthen the university’s ability to host athletic competitions and community events.
No construction start date or projected completion date has been announced. Idaho State said additional details will be released as planning, design and fundraising move forward.
