PORTLAND, OR -- Portland State University opened its new Academic and Student Recreation Center on Jan. 3.

The mixed-use building is six stories tall and includes Portland city archives on the fifth floor, School of Social Work classroom space on the sixth floor, and retail storefronts and restaurants on the ground level, in addition to the three-story rec center.

The facility is expected to qualify for LEED Gold certification and includes water efficiency strategies designed to reduce water consumption by 85 percent, recycled construction materials, the use of natural daylight and low-emitting paints, carpets and adhesives.

“The building itself reflects our university’s commitment to leading positive change through sustainability initiatives and education by being on track to be LEED Gold certified [an internationally recognized green building certification system],” said Alex Accetta, campus rec director, in a letter to students on the campus rec Web site.

The rec center features a large cardiovascular and weight training facility, three multipurpose group fitness suites, a 14,500-square-foot aquatic complex including a lap and leisure pool and whirlpool spa, new locker rooms, a three-court gymnasium, a three-lane running track, a rock climbing and bouldering wall, and a two-court synthetic floor gymnasium equipped with dasher boards for floor hockey and indoor soccer.

The $62 million facility has estimated annual total operational costs of $2.2 million. Project costs will be covered by state-authorized bonds, student recreation fees, retail lease fees, university allocations and fees from the City of Portland, the Portland Development Commission and the Oregon University System.

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