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`The Student Memorial Center’s Fitness Center underwent the first phase of a major face lift this summer. In the middle of June, two of the racquetball courts began renovations to become a cardiovascular room with new machines, and five new flat-screen televisions, headphones, etc. Phase one of reconstruction began in the middle of February.
It was well worth the wait for the new fitness center as students campus-wide have been enjoying its new features. Manager of the Fitness Center, Sarah Burcin said, “We are crowded and have a lot of people that use the facility…[the student reactions] have all been positive.”
Robert Slabinski, CEO of Student Services Inc. and Student Lodging Inc., assured that student opinions were weighed heavily in Phase one. “This all started a number of years ago in response to student requests for addition facilities.” The changes in Phase one were also based on a study completed to find out what more students wanted.
“Phase one we could do quickly and that was our first course of action, to meet that need right away, and its been very well received,” said Slabinski.
Students enjoy the new cardiovascular fitness room, a result of Phase one of the SMC renovations being complete. Photo by Christian Shuts.
Phase two is centered on the ideas of expanding the fitness area and giving the entire building a face lift, with possibilities of a sports education facility as well as a completely new gymnasium.
However, it is important to remember that these plans are all a work in progress and have not yet been approved by President McNairy or her cabinet members. However, building a new gym at the SMC would possibly involve closing South George Street to James Street down.
Slabinski said, “The students that we have spoken to with regards to this have been very, very enthusiastic about the location.”
Slabinski also said, “We are in the planning process, hopeful to get everything in place and keep the project moving.” Slabinski also said that WTW Architects have been hired to design Phase two once it is given the go-ahead by the President and her cabinet members.
Regardless of Phase two, students throughout campus are reaping the benefits of Phase one’s completion.
Senior Keith Hildebrand, who works at the front desk of the fitness center reiterates the student’s feedback, “They like the new equipment and the features with the TV and the headphones.”
Students are enjoying the new commodities, but Senior Alex Davies said, “Its just a convenience, its not necessary that your work out is better.”
Junior Ashleigh Johnston said, “They added new items so its nice you don’t have to wait.” The Fitness Center has also added a pie graph highlighting the times when the Health Center is busiest, so students can plan accordingly.
Senior Justin Gilchrist, who also works at the front desk of the Fitness Center said, “It happens every fall, there is a huge influx and then people drop off as the semester goes.”
The total cost of Phase one exceeded $500,000 in construction and equipment. Slabinski highlighted the “synergies” that came together in Phase one, and is optimistic that when Phase two is approved it will enhance student life and the fitness level of everyone on campus.