University of Michigan Regents approve schematic designs for Crisler Arena addition

It won't turn Crisler into the nation's finest arena, said Sink Combs Dethlefs CEO Don Dethlefs, but the project at least will bring Crisler up to speed with the rest of the NCAA's top schools. Sink Combs Dethlefs worked with Jickling Lyman Powell Associates Inc. to design the addition.

"It's not perfect yet for Crisler," he said. "It really brings (Crisler) up to standards on a national basis (with what) all the other public institutions are doing."

Dethlefs presented images of the 57,000-square-foot basketball player development center, set to open in 2011. The plans call for a flashy new entrance on the east side of the building, which will include a hall of fame.

"Crisler is relatively dark, so this will give you a glowing entry at night to welcome people in," Dethlefs said.

The project also includes two practice courts, as well as new locker rooms and lounges for both the men's and women's basketball teams. The second floor will house new coach's offices and space for film rooms and conditioning.

The renovation leaves room for a potential next phase in which the university could create a roof deck for social space. "Athletics' goal is to try and raise money to do a roof plaza," Dethlefs said.

U-M Athletic Director Bill Martin, in a prepared statement, called the addition "another step in sustaining the growth of our athletic department."

Regents also approved the schematic design for a $6-million, 20,000-square-foot soccer stadium at the competition field, just west of the Tisch Tennis Building. That project includes restrooms and concessions for fans, a press area, two new locker rooms and grandstand seating for 1,800.

The U-M athletic department will fund the projects through gifts and its general budget.

James Briggs covers sports for AnnArbor.com. Contact him at 734.623.2557 or jamesbriggs@annarbor.com.