The YMCA of Pierce and Kitsap Counties and UW Tacoma today announced plans to build a new fitness facility on the downtown campus.
The entities are exploring a 55,000- to 70,000-square-foot facility at South 17th Street and Market streets, according to a news release.
Dates for breaking ground and opening the center were not disclosed.
An forum is scheduled Jan. 23 to give students and other people a chance to tell YMCA and university officials what they’d like to see in the center. The forum will run from 12:15 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Longshoremen’s Hall at 1710 Market St.
Initial plans call for cardio and weight rooms, group exercise rooms, a gymnasium, locker rooms and gathering places for students.
The project would need approval from the UW Architectural Commission and the UW Board of Regents.
"The recreation and activity center would be funded through a student fee, as similar facilities are on other campuses across the country," the news release states.
Building a fitness center and student union to serve the more than 4,000 students were attend UW Tacoma was identified as a priority in a survey of students a few years ago, university officials said.
"Students are excited to be working with the Y and building a community partnership,” said Elizabeth Pierini, president of the Associated Students of UW Tacoma. “It’s a great stepping stone for getting students involved on campus and will provide opportunities for students to connect with the community.”
The facility would be open to university students, staff and professors as well as Y members.
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