Campus Connection

Media Credit: Clarence Lam BioPark II, location of the new athletic facility beginning July 2008.

The University Athletic Center’s current facility atop the Pratt Street garage will close for about one year beginning on June 1, 2008 for renovations that will integrate it with additional athletic facilities that are being constructed in the new Campus Center.  A separate athletic facility will be opened on July 1 in BioPark II to serve students and other users during this period. 

The expected BioPark athletic facility will contain strength, fitness, and cardiovascular equipment such as weights, treadmills, and ellipticals, according to Julia Wightman, assistant director of the University Athletic Center.  As the majority of the gym’s current equipment is nearing the end of its useful life, most of the equipment to be found in the BioPark facility will be new. 

Depending on available space, the facility might also include a studio for classes such as yoga and pilates.  Basketball, squash, and racquetball courts, however, will not be available in the BioPark.  Bill Crockett, the athletic center’s director, emphasized that other indoor fitness and outdoor sports programs will continue throughout the year, despite the loss of the sports courts. 

Many details of the BioPark athletic facility remain under development, including operating hours, precise location and area available within BioPark II, and staffing considerations.  “The building has a lot of flexibility,” said Crockett.  “We are working with the developer of BioPark II to find a location that is best suited to meet the BioPark’s needs and our needs.” 

Crockett pointed out that efforts are being undertaken to minimize disruption of athletic services to students.  “June and July are the slowest months we have here,” said Crockett.  “So if you’re going to have a month when you’re going to lose services, it’s an optimal timeframe.” 

The complete closure of the athletic center in June will allow Crockett and his small staff time to remove the old equipment, transfer offices, and setup new equipment at the BioPark facility, as well as conducting the hiring and training of additional staff. 

The BioPark athletic facility will not be temporary, but rather will continue to function even after completion of the new gym in the Campus Center.  Crockett believes that the standalone facility will augment available recreational and wellness services as the campus expands and grows, particularly with additional buildings projected for the BioPark complex.  “The two facilities will allow for the growth of capacity from a long-term, strategic viewpoint,” said Crockett.

New athletic facilities in the upper-levels of the Campus Center will include a swimming pool, weight and fitness room, and will be fully integrated with the location of the current gym in the Pratt Street garage.  “It will have all new equipment,” said Crockett of the combined facility. 

The Campus Center is expected to be open for student use beginning in the summer of 2009.

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