FAIRFIELD, CT – Shawmut announced the beginning of construction on Fairfield University’s Leslie C. Quick, Jr. Recreation Complex (RecPlex). Shawmut’s work on the three-story recreational facility is a long-awaited update for the university’s community, encompassing an additional 12,000 square-foot space to make fitness more accessible for students and staff.

Shawmut’s work on the 73,000 square-foot space includes a two-story expansion with a new lounge and improved fitness and multi-purpose spaces featuring a new upper-level mezzanine for cardio equipment. To unite all recreational services, the team will create a main two-story entry hall connecting all three levels with an open staircase. Shawmut will also complete renovations on the field house by replacing the flooring, adding an elevated indoor track, creating additional multi-purpose rooms, and updating the pool locker rooms. The team 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, 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.”

Scheduled for completion in August of 2016, the extensive renovation to the building will greatly expand fitness and athletic training space for the university’s community. Shawmut’s work on 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.

Photo credit: Newman Architects