Just a little history.......

The first thing to remember about the Coliseum is that you have to separate it by the various sub-facilities (Britt Brown Arena, the Pavillions, etc.). Most people when they talk about the "Coliseum" mean the Britt Brown Arena. As you said, Britt Brown Arena is closed, but the Pavilions are still operating and there are many horse shows and the like coming this summer.

Now, about you calling the Arena "serviceable", not really.

The issue with Britt Brown Arena was that it had serious challenges in many areas (accessibility, restrooms, exiting, etc.) and exposed the county to potential lawsuits in these areas (particularily around accessibility). In order to address those accessibility challenges the entire facility would have to have been brought up to current building codes, which included correcting everything mentioned and more. In 2003 the cost of these repairs and updates was estimated at $55 Million and still would have only been (officially) a 9,900 seat venue. Unlike Koch Arena at WSU, the structural system of BBA designed so that expanding the arena was also not possible.

So, good or bad, we have a new arena.

Now, I truly enjoyed watching 5A and 6A there, and it would be a shame if they moved the tournament. BUT, I am very appreciatine of the KSHAA standing firm around costs, especially now.

I would like to know what the single day attendance at the 5A/6A tournament was, as I think that Hartman would be enough. They had the entire 2nd concourse at Intrust Bank Arena closed for the tournament. If my sources are correct, that is 6K seats meaning that the lower level seats 8K to 9K with the floor completely open. Take away the 2K seats below the main concourse level that were folded in and I think you are getting close to Hartman's numbers.

Will be interesting to see what happens, my letter to the County Commissioners on keeping the tournament here is already sent.