Campus leaders are looking for new ideas and ways to improve the campus, as well as student life. One new idea that has been recently proposed is a possible new independent recreational facility. This recreational facility would be a stand alone building, allowing for the space the current recreational facility resides in to be opened up for more student spaces.
The Guardian recently published a poll on Twitter, asking students what they thought of an independent rec facility. Of the 81 students who voted, seventy-eight percent voted that they would like a new recreational facility, while the remaining twenty-two percent voted no. One student who voted no felt that the money going towards a recreational facility could be put to better use.
“I feel like we need to put our resources in much better places. Russ needs an update, Housing security improvements are desperately needed, math and micro is begging for an update as well. We don't need another rec facility at all. Investing in other things are much more needed” stated Grant Sommer.
The idea of an independent recreational facility is being supported by the Student Government Association. The Chief of Staff, Ivan Mallett, feels that it would be an important update for the university.
“People should care about the independent recreational facility because it helps our school look better and opening up the Student Union spaces would allow for a stronger community. With the extra space for our students organizations it would allow for more institutional support for those groups.” Mallett said.
Currently in the Student Union students have access to a swimming pool, fitness center, fitness studios, a gym, and locker rooms. Removal of these resources to be placed in another building would leave a lot of space open for improvements.
“One idea that has been pitched is that we turn the space that is currently the swimming pool into a theater. Adding things like that will encourage students to stay on campus and interact with each other outside of classes.” added Mallett.
The independent recreational facility is a relatively new idea, and the idea will be developed further in the coming weeks and months. Students wishing to express opinions, or who have ideas of what they would like to see in an independent recreational center are encouraged to reach out to the Student Government Association.
Do students want a new independent recreation facility?
WSU Student Union main entrance. Photograph: Michael Krieger/The Guardian
