TROY, Ala.—A dedication ceremony was recently held to celebrate the opening of Troy University’s new Trojan Fitness Center.

The 78,000-square-foot center, which officially opened its doors in January, includes a multi-activity court, a basketball court, free and circuit weight training areas, aerobic exercise rooms, an outdoor swimming pool, a multi-level walking track and four offices.

This $25 million project is a result of a student-led initiative, the center was recommended by Troy University’s Student Government Association and funded through student recreation fees.

RDG Planning & Design’s design, which was completed in partnership with Seay, Seay & Litchfield Architects (Architect-of-Record) was successful in realizing the the students’ vision to create a space supportive of creating healthy, lifelong habits. Whaley Construction Co. Inc. was the general contractor.

“The Trojan Fitness Center creates a home for the university’s Student Wellness Program and serves as a place where students can come together in wellness,” said RDG Principal and Architect Jack Patton, AIA, LEED AP.

“RDG designed the building to blend into Troy’s rich architectural fabric. It embodies the same southern hospitality we came to enjoy while helping Troy envision and create this important facility.”

Located on the corner of George Wallace Drive and University Avenue, the Trojan Fitness Center is one of the first buildings visitors encounter as they enter the campus. Designed to accommodate the fitness and recreational needs of both the students and the larger campus community, the multi-story facility offers vibrant and engaging spaces with strong indoor/outdoor connections.

An open rotunda on the northwest side offers visibility into all three levels of the facility, while a grand staircase serves as a striking visual element within the facility’s highly efficient layout design.

The design incorporates banners, dimensional art, window graphics, wall graphics and signage to create an experience that embraces the entire student body and highlights the nationalities of students who attend the university.

Photographic elements depict the Troy student’s journey—from their first day to graduation day—to the possibilities of professional life. Whimsical drawings of people in action embody the university’s motto, “Educate the mind to think, the heart to feel, and the body to act,” and are carried throughout the building as a symbol of Trojan pride.

Said University Chancellor Dr. Jack Hawkins, Jr., “Not only will it be instrumental in serving those who are currently enrolled, but it will also be an attraction for those who are considering where they want to spend their next four years. As we talk about recruitment and retention, this will add so much value, and there is a strong link between physical fitness and academic success.”

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