Fairfield University begins recreation renovation

Shawmut Design and Construction, a $1.2 billion national construction management firm, has begun a renovation and expansion of Fairfield University”™s Leslie C. Quick Jr. Recreation Complex known as RecPlex.

The project includes adding 12,000 square feet to the existing 61,000-square-foot-space, for a total of 73,000 square feet upon completion. There will be a two-story expansion with a new lounge and improved fitness and multipurpose spaces featuring a new upper-level mezzanine.

To unite all recreational services, the team will create a main two-story entry hall connecting all three levels with an open staircase. Highlights of Shawmut’s renovations on the field house are replacing the flooring, adding an elevated indoor track, creating additional multi-purpose rooms, and updating the pool locker rooms. The company will also perform lighting and acoustical improvements throughout the building.

“We are thrilled to collaborate with Fairfield to update the 36-year-old RecPlex, making it a single indoor recreational destination for students, faculty, and staff,” said Ken Procino, Shawmut”™s Connecticut regional director. “Over 90% of the student body uses the facility, including university, club, and intramural sports, while also sharing the space with local high school and prep school teams.”

The extensive renovation to the building is scheduled for completion in August of 2016, and will greatly expand fitness and athletic training space for the university”™s community. Shawmut”™s work at Fairfield University is the latest in the firm”™s academic division projects, with recent work at Worcester Polytechnic Institute, Holy Cross University, and Columbia University.