If authorized by the state Board of Regents, the UI will move ahead with plans to rebuild Hancher near its current location (but on higher ground) and relocate the School of Music to a downtown site.

UI spokesman Tom Moore said the university had no plans to use eminent domain to acquire the downtown property.

The regents will decide on Feb. 4 whether to grant “permission to proceed with project planning” for the two buildings, which would allow the UI to select an architect and a construction firm.

A “Facilities Replacement Study,” submitted to the regents in March 2009, gauged the total cost of fully replacing the music facilities and Hancher at $276 million.

Because of the extensive flood damage to both buildings, FEMA is obligated to fund 90 percent of eligible costs. This number could change as plans move forward.

The UI must submit a report and further recommendations for the music facilities in time for the regents’ meeting in April.

— by Emily Busse