Roanoke Times
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: WEDNESDAY, September 15, 1993 TAG: 9309150095
SECTION: CURRENT PAGE: NRV-12 EDITION: NEW RIVER VALLEY
SOURCE: MICHAEL STOWE STAFF WRITER
DATELINE: MOUNTAIN LAKE LENGTH: Medium
Originally, Tech had proposed building two centers, for physical fitness and sports as well as a student health center. Budget constraints forced university officials to combine the projects.
Gordon Davies, director of the State Council, praised Tech for its ability to compromise and save money.
"Tech has tried really hard in the past not to raise its tuition and they got really creative in the way they put this project together," he said. "They are very price-sensitive at Virginia Tech."
The $20.5 million project will be paid for by an increase in student fees not to exceed $108. Tech's current student fee is $512 a year. Larry Hincker, director of Tech's university relations, said students have told him they won't mind paying higher fees to have more recreation facilities.
"That's the one area they have told us they really need some help," he said.
The State Council will not recommend that the General Assembly allow Tech to begin construction next year, only that the university be allowed to continue planning.
Hincker said Tech hopes the 1995 General Assembly will give the university authorization to raise its fee and begin building the new facility.
The need for more recreation space has been documented by consultants outside the university, according to the State Council's report.
"Basic deficiencies and lack of space in the current health facility hamper operations and limit the expansion of programs in wellness and alcohol, drug and AIDS education," it said.
The 105,000-square-foot building will include basketball, volleyball and weight training facilities.
by CNB