When students return to the classroom on the Troy Campus Wednesday, they’ll return to a campus that has the potential to make them healthier.

The new, state-of-the-art recreation and fitness center will be open for business, said Dr. Shane Tatum, Director of Health and Wellness.

“When the students return, they can expect a recreation center that is equipped with all the fitness equipment they need, and an environment that is inviting and safe,” he said.

Just shy of two years in construction, the 78,000 square-foot Trojan Fitness Center cost about $25 million. It includes a multi-activity court, a basketball court, free and circuit weight training areas, aerobic exercise rooms, an outdoor swimming pool, a multi-level walking track and four offices.

The building was a student-led initiative, and was recommended by the Student Government Association, which also recommended it be paid for through a student recreation fee of $100 per semester ($50 summer). The fee was implemented in 2016, in advance of construction.

The facility, located on the eastern edge of campus on the corner of George Wallace Drive and University Avenue occupies a portion of land where Sartain Hall, the campus’ former basketball arena, once stood. Parking, and new street connects University Avenue and John M. Long Avenue. Construction also included the removal of traffic signals at the intersection of University Avenue and International Boulevard. The intersection is now controlled with a roundabout. 

A formal dedication and ribbon cutting will be announced at a later date.

Here’s a gallery of the nearly-completed Trojan Fitness Center from early December 2019.