Renderings released for auditorium and Manwaring Center projects at BYU-Idaho 

Construction on the new auditorium and Hyrum Manwaring Student Center expansion projects at Brigham Young University-Idaho continues to progress with the release of renderings for both buildings.

The new auditorium and Manwaring Center expansion represent the culmination of plans outlined during the transition from Ricks College to BYU-Idaho. The construction projects address two primary areas of university need: facilities where students can gather together as well as build and inspire one another, and critically needed space for the Activities Program.

While the concepts for both buildings are clear, there are a number of specific details that are still being worked out.

"It's important to remember these projects are being constructed using a ‘design-build' method," said James Smyth, vice president of University Resources at BYU-Idaho. "While we are able to show renderings of both buildings and a floor plan for the auditorium, there are still many elements that are under design."

The auditorium, located immediately south of the John W. Hart Physical Education Building, will provide seating for 15,000 people. Seats will be arranged on three levels: main floor, mezzanine, and balcony. The auditorium will be used primarily for events already held on campus, such as devotionals and commencement ceremonies.

Community uses for the auditorium have not yet been defined, but will be limited. Guidelines will be established to ensure events are compatible with the auditorium's purpose as a spiritual gathering place.

The building will also include a multi-use space equivalent in size to 10 basketball courts. This space will be used for a variety of events, including sports, recreational, social and other activities.  The multi-use areas will provide space for various academic needs as well. An enclosed pedestrian bridge will connect the auditorium building to the Hart Building.

The Manwaring Center expansion will be constructed on the building's north side, with an enclosed pedestrian connection to the neighboring David O. McKay Library. The renovated building will continue to house the same campus services already in place, but on a larger scale to better serve student needs. These include the University Bookstore, Food Services, and various functions of the Activities Program.

Each building project has been closely coordinated with and approved by the BYU-Idaho Board of Trustees.  The university has also consulted with the City of Rexburg since the conception of the buildings and will continue to work closely with city officials in an effort to comply with building, parking, and zoning ordinances.

Completion dates for both projects have not been announced.