The Student Recreation and Wellness Facility has moved to the second phase of a two-part renovation process.
Jason Adamowicz, associate director of recreation services, said construction is still on schedule to be completed by August of 2010.
Phase 2 began by tearing down a large section of Irving Gym's main floor and surrounding office areas. Fitness areas have been recreated in a section of the new building to compensate for the space lost during construction. Eventually, this new area will be converted into an indoor turf field.
Adamowicz said the biggest problem with the renovation project is the inconvenience of getting around the building. The east and south sides will remain shut down until renovations are completed, which is where most foot traffic was, he said.
To combat this problem, Recreation Services has placed signs around the building to direct students.
"We are in the most evasive part of this project," Adamowicz said. "Sometimes you have to take one step back to get two steps forward."
During the renovation process, the entrance to Irving Gym's equipment room was reconfigured. Students can now access it by going through the men's or women's locker rooms.
Junior Renee Schmellmeyer has worked in the equipment room for almost two years. She said the staff has been receiving more phone calls asking for directions since the move.
Schmellmeyer said adjusting to the temporary facility has been a challenge, but one that will be worth it in the end.
Senior Ikechukwu Nnachi, who works out in the building six days a week, feels differently about the construction.
"I'm not a big person for change," Nnachi said.
Nnachi said the temporary workout facility is lacking a TV, water fountain and has an uneven foundation.
While conditions may not be ideal right now, Greg Graham, interim director of facilities planning, said students have a "fantastic facility" to look forward to. Once completed, he said, a climbing wall and mock outdoor fitness area will be highlights of the complex. The floor plan will also be more open, making activities more visible and engaging.
"It will be a great asset to Ball State University," Graham said.
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