Camel Construction 2008
New fitness center adds to Connecticut College momentum
The College community is looking ahead to this coming summer's continuing campus renewal projects. Included are three more classroom renovations, including Bill Hall 106, the most broadly used teaching space on campus. Among other projects: renovations of Jane Addams and Plant residence halls; a new roof, windows, siding and internal heating controls in Winthrop Hall; and structural work on historic New London Hall, which houses the botany and biology departments.
In particular, the campus community is buzzing with excitement about plans to build a new, 6,500-square-foot fitness center. The fitness center, to be located in the heart of the Athletic Complex, will be an important resource for the campus community and a major draw for prospective students. Plans call for groundbreaking in May.
Fitness center benefits the whole person, the entire community
"The new fitness center will benefit the entire community, and will enable the College to continue to attract students who are seeking a high quality liberal arts experience that encompasses rigorous academics and a rich co-curricular life, including athletics and physical fitness," said President Lee Higdon. The $8 million project is financed completely through fundraising, including a $3.5 million gift and a $2 million gift.
With an aggressive construction schedule already mapped out, Higdon says the center will open in the fall of 2009.
Fitness with a view
The new fitness center will be approximately 6,500 square feet, and feature leading edge exercise equipment. Soaring glass walls facing the Thames River will provide an abundance of natural light and commanding views of the river and turf field events. It is the first new building to be constructed at Connecticut College since the F.W. Olin Science Center, completed in 1995, and is already a source of pride among members of the campus community.
"The new fitness center is going to be a stunning highlight on a campus that is already regarded as one of the most beautiful in the country," said Fran Shields, Katherine Wenk Christoffers '45 Director of Athletics and Chair of the Physical Education Department. "It more than triples the amount of exercise and wellness space at the College, and puts us at the top of our game in terms of our peer colleges."
AC facelift
In addition to the new construction, the College has been making significant upgrades to the Athletic Center, including the entryway and Hall of Fame room. Additionally, the existing fitness center will be completely renovated into 2,500 square feet of space for aerobics, dance and other group exercise and sports programming.
The Fitness Center Construction Schedule
- Winter 2008 - finalize designs
- Spring 2008 - begin site work
- Summer 2008 - break ground
- Fall 2008 - begin construction
- Fall 2009 - open fitness center
Last Modified: Wednesday, March 12, 2008 10:00