Student Recreation Center expansion begins

By Cheryl Jones
University News Service
June 12, 2007

After much discussion and delay, the expansion of the Student Recreation Center at Texas State University-San Marcos broke ground last week. The plan to expand the 13-year-old recreation center was approved in 2005 with construction to begin in 2006. Due to funding issues, groundbreaking was delayed until recently.

The facility will include: a lap and leisure pool, a bigger weight room and cardiovascular area, additional sport courts and rooms, a climbing wall, golf simulator, computer lab, snack bar and lounge.

Glenn Hanley, the director of campus recreation, views the expansion as much-needed to served the student body.

“The students have indicated that we need it, the lines on machines and getting on courts and trying to do weights indicate that we need it,” Hanley said. “I think it’s going to be a big plus for the student body as well as for student programs.”

According to Hanley and Student Affairs, the 94,000 square foot $31 million expansion increases student recreation fees $47.

Julie Bernhard, a mass-communication senior, doesn’t mind the additional expense.

“I will be using it and I think it’s worth it because health is important and you shouldn’t put a price on your health,” Bernhard said.

The increase in space will also allow for more programming opportunities such as water aerobic classes, inner tube water polo, wall-climbing competitions, more fitness assessments, and indoor soccer leagues.

Doors are expected to open in Fall 2008..

“I personally can’t wait. I always have to wait for a machine and I think the new facility will be able to house more people and we won’t have to wait in line,” Bernhard said.