University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL) Campus Recreation will begin a $4.9 million renovation at the end of November. The project aims to improve inclusivity on campus by updating locker room space, creating universal access to the swimming pool, and adding more strength and conditioning areas.
Funding is provided by Campus Recreation, and no student fee dollars or additional fees and donations are required for project completion. Amy Lanham, the director of UNL Campus Recreation, said the project has a 14-month timeline with an estimated completion by Spring 2025.
“Campus Recreation is committed to enriching the education experience by promoting lifelong healthy living,” said Lanham. “Our students have requested additional fitness space and this an opportunity to add in a landlocked, older facility. We strive to be part of every Huskers’ story. By making sure our spaces lead first with inclusive access, we are better situated to do so.”
Renovation Details
Currently, the rec center has one pool available for use. Lanham said several years ago a student approached the department regarding access to the pool as a non-binary individual. The only way visitors can get to the aquatics area is through the binary locker rooms.
“We were not able to accommodate their need but began exploring options,” said Lanham. “The pool is also located on a ground level where the primary access is downstairs. There was a porch elevator installed when the building was completed in the early 1990s. Due to the design, the person wishing to use the space needs to request assistance from a staff member if they need the lift.”
To solve these issues, Lanham said the project will create four additional gender-inclusive locker rooms, a mother’s room and inclusive access to the pool. She said the current locker rooms are very large. By rightsizing and updating them into the current male gendered area, they will be able to garner 3,400 square feet of new fitness space.
“The locker rooms will also have all new plumbing, updated electrical and HVAC services, new fixtures and lockers, and infrared saunas,” said Lanham.
Future Plans and Advice
Once the renovation begins, there will be no access granted to the locker rooms or pool during construction times. The last day to use the pool is expected to be December 15, 2023. According to the UNL Campus Recreation website, the department is actively working to find alternative pools for open swimming and aquatics activities.
For other campus rec centers considering a similar project and enhancing inclusivity, Lanham advised speaking with students on what they want to see in the rec center. In fact, the renovation came about in part due to feedback from student survey results. They initially asked for features such as better access to the pool, more strength and conditioning space, as well as updated locker rooms.
“Make yourself available to hear what and how they are using your services,” said Lanham. “It may take a while, but continue to brainstorm with team members and others to see what solutions can be done — even if you are limited on space.”
Want more updates and information on renovation ideas and inclusivity initiatives on campus? Sign up for a digital subscription here.
