Site preparation has begun at Troy University for the construction of a new student recreation center in the area that was formerly the Sartain Hall parking lot.

According to Clif Lusk with University Relations, construction of the new $25 million facility is expected to take 18 months.

“The new student recreation center will be a tremendous addition to America’s most beautiful college campus,” said Walter Givhan, senior vice chancellor for advancement and economic development. “It will greatly enhance the services provided to students, faculty and staff on campus and accords perfectly with the University’s vision of serving our students needs with the finest facilities possible.”

The new 78,000 square-foot facility will include a multi-activity court, a basketball court, a free-weight training area, a circuit weight training area, special aerobic rooms, an outdoor swimming pool, and four offices. It features a multi-level walking track.

The facility, spearheaded by the Student Government Association, is ultimately funded by a student recreation fee recommended by the SGA to the Board of Trustees, who approved the measure in May 2015. The $100 per semester fee ($50 for the summer) was instituted in Fall 2016.