Student Government Association approves changes to Student Recreation Center-North

Southeast Missouri State University's Student Recreation Center-North will be getting some upgrades thanks to additional funding from the Student Government Association, which approved a budget in a unanimous decision Monday night.

SGA, which is responsible for past improvements such as the lighted corridor and the WINGS shuttle service, sees these renovations as a similar investment in the health and wellness of the student body.

"Our goal is to create some new spaces without creating new buildings; this budget will allow us to do that," Assistant Director of Recreational Services Eric Redinger said.

As the number of people using the student recreation center continues to grow, so do concerns about overcrowding. The same high traffic that prompted the expansion plan has led to more money being devoted to regular facility maintenance, leaving less for long-term improvement.

Director of Recreational Services Mike Buck explained the dilemma in his address to the assembly.

"We've had a bunch of students suggest [these changes] so we're excited to finally be doing it, but we have everyday needs that we have to address first," Buck said.

With the project put on hold, recreational services faculty sought additional funds from SGA in order to resume the renovations, some of which are already underway. Some unused administrative space has already been outfitted for use as an additional weight room, but with funding approved, the serious remodeling can begin within the week. The expansion, which would add three more workout areas, would not only help alleviate congestion but also provide more variety and equipment all while making the center more accessible.

"We want to knock down some of the walls to really open up the space," said Redinger, who sees the space as becoming a viable alternative for those who want to work with lighter weights or use it for yoga.

The proposed renovations include the conversion of an old racquetball court into a TRX Suspension Training system, which targets a variety of muscle groups using resistance bands hung from the ceiling. The trusses for this new gear have already been installed.

Judging by the proliferation of similar TRX programs across the country and the fact that the idea was first proposed by the student body, recreational services expects the new spaces to become popular. In preparation for this anticipated surge, some recreation center staff members such as Sarah Wagganer have been sent as far as Nashville, Tenn. to receive specialized training.

If the new spaces are used as much as predicted, SGA would benefit from the exposure.

The organization currently has vacant senate positions in every college. They will hold special elections to fill the empty seats in early February. To run for a position, complete a statement of candidacy and submit it to UC 204 before Wednesday, Feb. 5.