The New Balance Student Recreation Center at the University of Maine stands as a testament to the institution’s commitment to providing top-tier recreational facilities for its students, faculty, and staff. This 87,000+ square foot facility, designed by Cannon Design, was meticulously planned after consulting a wide array of stakeholders to ensure it catered to the needs and desires of the campus community. The result is a $25 million state-of-the-art complex that has become a central hub for recreational activities on campus and in the surrounding areas.
One notable aspect of the center is its focus on sustainability. The facility has been awarded Silver Certification under the Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design (LEED) program, showcasing its commitment to environmentally friendly practices. The design incorporates natural elements like stone and copper, blending seamlessly with the Maine landscape. The center’s proximity to the DeMeritt Forest Trail System further enhances its appeal, offering users easy access to miles of scenic trails for outdoor activities.
Upon entering the facility, visitors are greeted with a spacious and inviting layout that fosters a sense of community. The interior features expansive windows that bathe the space in natural light, creating a welcoming environment for users. The centerpiece of the center is the leisure pool, surrounded by large windows and boasting a range of amenities including lap lanes, a hot tub, and a vortex current pool, providing a relaxing and enjoyable experience for swimmers.
For fitness enthusiasts, the center offers a comprehensive selection of cardio and weight equipment spread across multiple dedicated areas. From cardio machines to free weights and functional training spaces, the facility caters to a diverse range of workout preferences. Additionally, there are multipurpose rooms equipped for various activities such as dance classes, yoga sessions, and more, providing ample opportunities for group fitness activities and events.
Sports enthusiasts can make use of the wood-floor courts for volleyball and basketball, with provisions for badminton and pickleball as well. The Multiple Activity Court (MAC) offers a versatile space for activities like floor hockey and soccer. Additionally, the facility features glass-fronted racquetball courts that can be converted for squash matches, catering to a variety of indoor sports interests.
Recognized for its architectural excellence, the New Balance Student Recreation Center has garnered accolades such as the American Institute of Architects Special Mention for Excellence in Architecture and the National Intramural-Recreational Sports Association Outstanding Sports Facility Award. These honors underscore the center’s status as a benchmark for innovative design and functionality in collegiate recreational facilities.
In conclusion, the New Balance Student Recreation Center at the University of Maine stands as a beacon of recreational excellence, offering a wide array of amenities and activities to cater to the diverse needs of its users. With its focus on sustainability, community engagement, and top-notch facilities, the center exemplifies the university’s dedication to providing a holistic and enriching experience for its students and the broader campus community.
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