Last week, the University announced progress on the transformation of Archbold Gymnasium, which includes the creation of the Barnes Center at The Arch, a state-of-the-art, fully accessible health, wellness and recreation complex. This exciting Campus Framework initiative will bring together student-focused health and wellness services into one central location, providing convenient access to all users.
Trustee support of the project and a lead gift will allow construction to officially begin in January 2018. The start of the spring semester will see Archbold Gymnasium closed for this renovation and recreation facilities relocated to Flanagan Gymnasium and the Women’s Building. The new Barnes Center at The Arch will open in time for the start of the fall 2019 semester.
In preparation for this renovation, the Office of Campus Planning, Design and Construction (CPDC) and Recreation Services have taken extensive measures to ensure students, faculty and staff have access to equipment, classes and spaces for recreation and fitness activities. During this temporary period, much of the equipment and designated fitness spaces will relocate to Flanagan Gymnasium and the Women’s Building. The Recreation Services staff will also relocate their offices to the Women’s Building.
The holistic health and wellness of our students, faculty and staff is a priority of the Academic Strategic Plan and an important component to enhancing the student experience. During the renovation of The Arch, we will continue to provide services and facilities that will deliver on those priorities. We invite you to visit the Barnes Center at The Arch webpage to review the plans for this exciting new facility.
Throughout the next few weeks, we will provide updates on plans for the spring semester, including hours and locations. This information will be available on the Recreation Services website soon. We encourage you to read the monthly CPDC construction email updates, as well as visit the Recreation Services website, for the most up-to-date news about renovation progress.
Thank you for your ongoing support and shared excitement as we prepare for construction of this transformative health and wellness complex.
Sincerely,
M. Dolan Evanovich
Senior Vice President for Enrollment and the Student Experience
Pete Sala
Vice President and Chief Facilities Officer