Those who frequent the third floor of the Lied Recreation Athletic Center will need to find a new place to work out -- probably State Gym -- for the next couple of months. The good news for the temporarily displaced exercisers is that when they return to Lied, they'll find their workout space completely renovated, top to bottom, with new machines in between.
Lied's third floor, including the upper track, will be closed Nov. 19, and is expected to reopen Jan. 14.
Michael Giles, director of recreation services, said money left over from the State Gym renovation will fund improvements to Lied's popular top floor -- a busy place that hosts some 1,500 people a day.
"We're trying to give Lied the same kind of facelift that we gave State Gym," Giles said.
The renovations, about $900,000 worth, will include new flooring, ceiling, lights and cardio and weight equipment, most of which is pretty old, Giles said. The current facility holds approximately 100 fitness machines and weight stations.
Renovations won't extend to the upper track at Lied, but the track must be closed due to its proximity to the construction area.
Alternate workout spot: State Gym
Giles advises Lied patrons to continue their fitness routines in State Gym while Lied's upper floor is closed. Those with a recreation pass can use either facility.
Runners can continue to use the lower track at Lied most of the time. The track is reserved for athletics department activities from 2 to 6 p.m. weekdays. See facility hours (PDF).
