The UREC expansion project that started in June 2013 is finally coming to a close. The UREC will begin opening the renovated space to the public in late February.
“After several years of planning, design and construction of the multiple improvements to the recreation facilities on campus, we are happy to say that the construction of the last and largest piece is nearly complete,” Assistant Vice President of Planning, Design and Construction on the UREC Project Roger Husser said. “With the completion of the sports recreation fields on Gourrier Lane and the new parking facilities and tennis courts being completed over the last couple years, the expansion and renovation of the main recreation center is essentially complete with minor efforts remaining to equip it and open it for use.”
Executive Director of University Recreation Laurie Braden said the construction is still ongoing, but a date has been set in late February to begin opening the new space.
However, the full space will not be open until late April.
“Our goal is to have a grand opening with Student Government, and bring back old Student Government members right at the end of April,” Braden said.
The project will be fully completed in fall 2017.
The new facility bosts a number of new features and facilities, such as a renovated indoor pool plus an outdoor lap pool and lazy river in the shape of LSU. Three courts were also added, two of which are multi-activity courts designed to accommodate sports like indoor soccer and volleyball.
The track has been expanded and at completion it will be exactly a third of a mile in length. It will run between the second and third floors, winding throughout workout spaces and around the renovated climbing wall.
A studio for boxing fitness classes has also been added. The renovation project has not resulted in the removal of any popular facilities.
“We’re getting everything and more,” Braden said.
The facility will also feature retinal scanners at the entrances to streamline the entry process for students.
Also coming soon from University Recreation is a UREC “Express” location on Nicholson Drive, near the new nutrition building. This facility will feature cardio equipment and space for group workout sessions and classes, similar to a 24-hour fitness center, though the location will not be open round the clock. This facility will not incur an increase in student fees.
“It’ll be tight, but we think it’s the right decision to serve students,” Braden said.