IOWA CITY (AP) - The president of the Iowa Board of Regents says replacing the flood-damaged theater and art complexes at the University of Iowa is likely the best choice.

The board toured the buildings on Thursday during its meeting in Iowa City.

While the board hasn’t voted yet on replacing or repairing the complexes, Regents President David Miles is encouraging university officials to move forward with research of potential sites and costs.

The theater complex, which includes Hancher Auditorium, and Art Building East were among 22 buildings damaged in last summer’s floods. Officials have estimated the recovery will cost $743 million.

University officials will make a recommendation to the regents on April 30.

Floodwaters from the Iowa River surround Hancher Auditorium and Voxman Music building on the University of Iowa arts campus Sunday, June 15, 2008 in Iowa City. (Brian Ray/The Gazette)