The new Dalhousie University fitness centre adds 56,900 square feet to the existing Dalplex facility

NEWS RELEASE

DALHOUSIE UNIVERSITY

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Dalhousie University opened the doors of the new Dalplex fitness centre expansion today, welcoming members, the Dal community, and neighbours to this state-of-the-art addition to the university's athletic and recreation facilities. The new fitness centre adds 56,900 square feet to the existing Dalplex facility, and provides an inviting and modern space offering fitness and wellness opportunities to members.

"The opening of the new fitness centre during our 200th anniversary year signals a new era for athletics and recreation at Dalhousie," says Dr, Richard Florizone, President and vice Chancellor of Dalhousie University. "This state-of-the-art building was designed by our students, for our students. They said they wanted better weight and cardio rooms, light-filled studios and multi-purpose court space, and this best-in-class facility delivers that and much more."

The fitness centre has four fitness studios, 74 pieces of new cardio equipment, brand new strength-training equipment and three new locker rooms in a modern climate-controlled environment. Other new features include a new guest services centre, a new high-performance training area, meeting room, five new offices, and a large lobby area.

The new fitness centre is targeting LEED Gold standard classification and is built to the highest standard and that includes sustainability features including a large rain garden, heavily insulated roofing system, low flow-water fixtures and LED lighting. The building is expected to use 32 per cent less energy than comparable facilities this size.

This $23.3-million centre was initiated after an extensive needs assessment. In addition to the new facility, an additional $2.6-million will allow Dalhousie to replace the existing Dalplex fieldhouse floor and re-sod the Sexton Campus field. At the Sexton gym, existing strength and conditioning spaces are being renovated along with locker rooms.

"Health and wellness is very important to all students," says DSU President Aaron Prosper. "We are grateful that our predecessors in 2010 had the foresight to plan for this facility. It is a legacy that Dalhousie students will use and appreciate for years to come."

"The space is essential for Dalhousie to remain competitive. We recruit students nationally and internationally, and this new fitness centre puts us neck in neck with other institutions across Canada," says Tim Maloney, Athletics and Recreation Executive Director. "This is a resource that is both needed and supported by the Dalhousie community."

Project funding for the fitness centre is entirely supported by Dalhousie University and Kings College students. The Dalplex Fitness Centre was designed by FBM Architects and MJMA Architects, and built by Bird Construction.

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