Tennessee Tech University’s new recreation and fitness center opens
By David Malone, Associate Editor
The Marc L. Burnett Student Recreation & Fitness Center has officially opened on Tennessee Tech University’s campus.
The new facility, designed by Wold | HFR Design, is twice the size of the 1991 facility it replaces and provides a new focal point at the campus entrance. The design and materials reflect a contemporary interpretation of the Georgian style architecture prevalent on campus.
The three-story, 165,000-sf recreation and fitness facility includes a basketball gym and multi-activity court, a racquetball courts, retractable bleachers for spectators, a 13,000-sf weight room, a 6,000-sf cardio room, a climbing wall, a golf simulator, an elevated track, an aquatic center, a dance studio, a game room, and a wellness and nutrition area. Additionally, an expanded childcare space, offices, and large group exercise areas are included.
Basketball and pickleball courts are included outside and an outdoor pursuits component allows student to rent equipment such as kayaks and camping gear. The facility was completed in August 2020 but the grand opening was postponed until April 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.