OU regents approve Lloyd Noble renovation, new parking garage

NORMAN, Okla. (AP) -- The University of Oklahoma's Lloyd Noble Center will undergo a $16.8 million renovation under plans approved by regents Wednesday. Officials have also given preliminary approval

Thursday, February 3rd 2000, 12:00 am

By: News On 6

NORMAN, Okla. (AP) -- The University of Oklahoma's Lloyd Noble Center will undergo a $16.8 million renovation under plans approved by regents Wednesday. Officials have also given preliminary approval for a $9 million parking garage west of Oklahoma Memorial Stadium. Regents approved design plans and a budget for renovations at Lloyd Noble, which houses the university's basketball programs.

The project will include new practice space for both the men's and women's basketball teams, locker rooms, training and strength facilities, office space and more public restrooms and concessions. Plans also call for electrical and mechanical upgrades, 500 additional seats and renovations of the arena court, which will be funded from the athletic department budget and private donations.

The parking garage will include 800 parking spots and be connected to the stadium. It will be used daily and for special events on evening and weekends, officials said. University president David L. Boren said the parking garage will improve the appearance of the west side of the stadium. The university-owned Yorkshire Apartments also will get a face lift.