IN THIS ISSUE:
I Space | Alumni Interview | CRCE

FEATURE STORY — May/June 2005

Renovated fitness facility adds a new dimension to Campus Recreation

By Laura Weisskopf Bleill

In Greek mythology, the goddess Circe possesses transformative powers. The same could be said for CRCE (Campus Recreation Center East), which recently reopened following a 20-month renovation and expansion.

Formerly known as "WIMPE," CRCE (pronounced "sir-see") is located east of Freer Hall in Urbana and is accessible from Nevada, Goodwin and Dorner streets. Its 110,000 square feet of wide-open spaces, emphasis on natural light and calming blue color scheme reflect the center's casual, friendly atmosphere. It is a place where people can be introduced to new activities, said Jayne Turpin DeLuce '87 ALS, MS '88 ALS, associate director of Campus Recreation.

"It doesn't have to be the place where we're hard-core working out," she said.

The building, tripling the size of the original structure, has been completely reconfigured to include a new aquatics area, three basketball courts, three racquetball courts, a one-eighth-mile track and a multi-activity court with dasher boards for in-line skating, dodgeball and indoor soccer. The center also contains state-of-the-art cardio and weight machines, free weights and space for group fitness classes. Other amenities include spacious locker rooms, a lobby with tables and chairs, and a lounge to relax.

The aquatic facility was specifically designed with leisure in mind. For social and therapeutic purposes, the pool is heated to a higher temperature than an average pool. It has a zero-depth entry point, making it accessible to those with limited mobility. A submersible wheelchair is also available.

A large waterslide feeds into the pool. The deck also features a 12-person spa pool, a 35-foot-high decorative waterfall, erupting volcano fountain and a palm tree motif.

The building's opening was so anticipated that one student camped out overnight so he could be the first person to enter when CRCE officially opened on March 30. Upon entering, he shot a basket in each of the six basketball nets.

For junior Jason Azul, the new facility was a bit overwhelming at first glance. A hoops aficionado from Vernon Hills, he said the basketball court has more of a "gym feeling" than other courts on campus do.

"Since there are more (basketball) courts available, you don't have to wait any more for a game," Azul said.

The project is part of a student fees-funded $77 million overhaul of Campus Recreation facilities. The comprehensive renovation and expansion of IMPE (Intramural Physical Education building near Memorial Stadium) is now scheduled to begin this summer, following a delay due to the bidding process. IMPE will remain closed until sometime in late 2007, at which time officials hope the project will be completed.

Bleill is a free-lance writer in Champaign.