The Iowa State Center plan (public space near Hilton) has no traction and it seems some different visioning is needed. Cities like Lincoln (and KC on a bigger scale) have built public entertainment spaces near sports venues with a lot of success, despite having different sized cities and different land situations.
What we have now:
What Lincoln, NE has near Pinnacle Bank Arena:
Kansas City (P&L)
What we have now:
What Lincoln, NE has near Pinnacle Bank Arena:
Kansas City (P&L)