LANSING — The Michigan State University Board of Trustees has approved planning for a major expansion at the Michigan Farm Bureau Pavilion in East Lansing.
The board authorized the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources to begin planning a second indoor arena attached to the existing pavilion. The project is intended to expand event capacity and improve conditions for animals, exhibitors and visitors.
University officials are considering two expansion options. A foundational concept would add about 24,000 square feet of indoor arena space at an estimated cost of $10 to $11 million. A larger expanded concept would add more than 40,000 square feet, include seating for about 200 spectators and carry an estimated cost of $16 to $19 million.
The pavilion hosts nearly 100 events each year and draws about 100,000 visitors annually. University officials say those events generate more than $7 million a year for the local economy.
Final construction would require additional approval from the MSU Board of Trustees, with donor and industry funding expected to shape the final design.