TUCSON, AZ -- The University of Arizona unveiled a 55,000-square-foot expansion to its student rec center last week that is expected to achieve LEED Gold certification.
LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) is a green building certification from the U.S. Green Building Council with goals to improve energy savings, water efficiency, CO2 emissions reduction and indoor environmental quality.
The new building incorporates green features, such as natural daylighting, recycled rubber flooring, and low VOC paint and carpeting. In addition, 75 percent of construction waste was diverted during the facility’s construction.
The expansion includes a 30,000-square-foot weight room, rock climbing features, 104 new pieces of cardiovascular equipment with TVs and a multipurpose gym.
The facility's official grand opening celebration, which organizers call The Big Green Event, is slated for Feb. 22. In addition, a Rec Fest is scheduled for Feb. 23 that will include music, food, games, prize giveaways, free massages, acupuncture, cancer screenings and more.