Baton Rouge, Louisiana, September 5, 2025
News Summary
LSU is proposing a new $400 million arena to replace the outdated Pete Maravich Assembly Center, partnering with Oak View Group. While financial backing is anticipated, concerns about transparency and ethics have arisen, particularly following indictments against Oak View Group’s founder. Community leaders support the initiative, which aims to boost economic development and host various events. However, critics voice worries about potential political corruption as the project moves forward, pending local government’s support.
Baton Rouge, Louisiana to Consider New $400 Million Arena Amid Concerns Over Transparency
Louisiana State University (LSU) is in the early stages of proposing a new $400 million arena, aiming to establish a public-private partnership with the Oak View Group. This initiative seeks to replace the outdated Pete Maravich Assembly Center, which has been labeled inadequate for contemporary big-time athletics.
The financial landscape of the project includes potential contributions of $100 million or more from the Tiger Athletic Foundation (TAF) and Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady (FMOL). Advocates believe that the new arena could catalyze economic development in Baton Rouge by attracting more convention business and enhancing the city’s profile for live events.
Support for the arena has been voiced by leaders from various organizations, including the TAF, FMOL, Visit Baton Rouge, the Baton Rouge Area Chamber, and the Baton Rouge Area Foundation. However, concerns linger regarding the transparency of negotiations and the decision-making process behind selecting the developer. The TAF has narrowed down the list of developers from 19 to just two, ultimately choosing Oak View Group after ASM Legends withdrew from consideration.
Controversies Surround Developer Choice
In a troubling development, Oak View Group’s founder, Timothy J. Leiweke, is facing indictments related to bid-rigging charges from an unrelated project in Texas. This revelation has raised questions about the company’s ethics and its ability to deliver on the arena project. TAF’s proposal may see the organization providing Oak View Group with $30 million in the first 10 years, increasing to $40 million over the following decade. Additionally, FMOL’s potential $50 million naming rights deal could yield an extra $40 million towards Oak View Group’s investment.
Critics of the project worry it could be indicative of “old-style Louisiana politics,” viewing this initiative as potentially corrupt. LSU officials are currently assessing the implications of Leiweke’s indictment and have yet to finalize any agreements with Oak View Group.
Community Support and Proposed Uses
Former LSU basketball star, O’Neal, has publicly backed the arena project, committing to become the first investor. He underlined the urgent need for a world-class arena. Plans for the venue include hosting LSU athletic events, graduation ceremonies, concerts, and other entertainment activities. The arena is slated for construction on the LSU Golf Course site.
To move the project forward, local government will possibly need to endorse a sales tax levy, which would financially support the arena’s development. Furthermore, this project might also influence the future evolution of the Raising Cane’s River Center, with aspirations to transition the facility toward increased convention-related revenues.
Current Status
As LSU explores this ambitious venture, the balance between economic opportunity and ethical considerations remains at the forefront of community dialogue. The university continues to evaluate its strategy in light of the ongoing controversies surrounding the Oak View Group.
FAQ Section
What is the proposed cost for the new arena?
The proposed cost for the new arena is $400 million.
Who is financing the new arena project?
The financing could involve contributions from the Tiger Athletic Foundation (TAF) and Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady (FMOL), potentially exceeding $100 million.
What concerns have been raised about the developer Oak View Group?
Concerns include the indictment of Oak View Group’s founder, Timothy J. Leiweke, on bid-rigging charges, which has raised questions about the company’s integrity and transparency in the project selection process.
What events are expected to be hosted at the new arena?
The arena is expected to host LSU athletic events, graduation ceremonies, concerts, and various entertainment events.
Key Features of the Proposed Arena Project
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Estimated Cost | $400 million |
| Financial Contributions | TAF and FMOL potentially providing $100 million+ |
| Developer | Oak View Group |
| Use Cases | LSU athletics, concerts, graduations |
| Location | LSU Golf Course site |
| Projected Naming Rights Value | $50 million |
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Additional Resources
- The Advocate: Shaquille O’Neal Backs LSU Arena Project
- NOLA: LSU’s New Arena Project
- Black Enterprise: Shaquille O’Neal to Invest in LSU Arena
- Wikipedia: Louisiana State University
- Google Search: Louisiana State University new arena
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