University of Memphis to get $62 million recreation center

The University of Memphis will be getting a new $62 million student recreation and fitness center. The $307 million project will be funded by a student fee increase to be implemented during the 2014-15 school year.

Construction on the 192,500-square-foot-facility will be done in three phases and will feature a main four-court divisible gym, six racquetball courts, a multi-purpose fitness center with a climbing wall, and a natatorium with both a recreational pool and lane pool, according to the Memphis Business Journal.

“The Student Recreation and Fitness Center has become a vital part of students’ lives and health on our campus, and vividly demonstrates the mind-body connection,” Rosie Phillips Bingham vice president for student affairs, told the Memphis Business Journal.

The building is expected to open in 2018.