frequently asked questions
What will be included in the proposed expansion of the Recreation Complex?
- The cardio/weight area will be expanded from 10,000 square feet to 20,000 square feet. The number of cardio and weight machines will increase almost twofold, as well as our free weight pieces. The present cardio theatre will be expanded and include more modern technology.
- An additional multipurpose room larger than the current area will be added to accommodate more group fitness classes, mind/body classes, meeting space, multi-use areas for student groups, practice areas for dance movement, etc. This area will be size-adjustable with portable wall structures to accommodate activities of different sizes.
- A MAC (multi-activity court) gymnasium will be added to accommodate additional space for free time play in traditional sports, but also activities such as indoor soccer, roller hockey, floor hockey, and special events to include dances, club, or organizational functions, etc.
- The current elevated running/walking track will be lengthened from 1/8 mile to 1/5 mile.
- New elements include a 43-foot climbing wall with low bouldering elements. This will be located at the new southern entrance.
- A new southern entrance to the Rec Complex will be created to accommodate patrons. With the Jardine Complex housing facilities expanding, we will be able to better serve these patrons and others that may bicycle, walk, or drive from the main campus.
- Plans are to include another parking lot adjacent to this southern entrance to the Rec Complex.
- A new lounge area with flat screen televisions, wireless Internet access, couches, tables, and chairs will be placed near the entry area for students to relax before, during, or after their use of the facility.
- Adjacent to the southern entrance will be located two activity areas which could house our mind/body classes, personal training room, and table tennis, amongst other activities.
How much will it cost to pay for the proposed expansion?
The proposed expansion and renovation of the Rec Complex will cost a total of $21 million. $17 million will be for the actual construction and materials cost for both the expansion and renovation. The remaining $4 million will cover administrative fees for architect, surveying, inspections, engineering, landscaping, furnishings, equipment, bonding, and financing costs.
The bond will be paid with monies from the student activity fee. The proposal is that $20 per student per semester will be collected, starting in Fall 2008. In Fall 2011 when the project will be completed and the expansion open for use, $20 more will be collected for a total of $40 per student per semester until the bond is paid off in 27 years. The current Rec Complex building bond being collected for the 1993 expansion is $22.25 per student per semester. This will be extended in 2013 when it would normally expire (not a new fee).
How much do students pay for Recreational Services programs and the current building?
Currently, full-time students at Kansas State University pay a student activity fee of $36.14 per semester. Part of this amount is for the payment of the bond on the building and the 1993 expansion of the Rec Complex, which amounts to $20 per semester. The other part of the money goes to support the programming of the Rec Complex, which amounts to $16.14 per student per semester.
Will the proposed facility expansion renovate the existing building?
Yes, the original building opened in 1980. The Phase II expansion in 1993 included renovation of gymnasium flooring, carpeting, and painting of the existing and new structure. This new referendum and proposed expansion would include the same type of renovation to the existing building to bring it up to the quality of the expansion.
Will the building look more "K-State"?
There are efforts to make the new and the renovated areas of the facility feel more like K-State. A specific student branding committee has been working with the architects to assist in the development and implementation of these ideas.
Will the building be closed during construction?
The construction and renovation of the complex will be completed in phases. While the new weight room is being built, the old one will function until the new area is ready (for example). The contractors will operate in this manner as much as possible to limit the amount of disturbance on the facility and our patrons.
Will parking be affected by any expansion?
We feel that parking will not be affected by the expansion of the Rec Complex. Parking Services controls and maintains the lots. Permits are not requried after 4 p.m. each day. We are looking at another parking lot south of the Rec Complex if expansion occurs in that area.
Who will get to use the new, expanded facilities?
Just as current policy indicates, students who pay the student activity fee use the building for no additional cost. Faculty and staff at K-State must purchase a facility use card to gain entrance. There are fees associated with memberships, rentals, and extended use. Other affiliated groups with K-State are allowed to purchase facility use cards. Our student use is our primary concern.
When will the building be completed?
Construction could begin in Spring 2010 and be completed by late Fall 2011.