HPER Renovation

A 15-month renovation to the University of Arkansas’ HPER Building has begun. This renovation will add modern infrastructure and architectural updates to the building, as well as other features that will enhance students’ and members’ overall recreation experience. The total cost of the HPER Building renovation is $24 million. Funding comes from general obligation bonds supported by the existing facilities fees. University of Arkansas students helped lead the discussion of needing an updated campus recreation hub to accommodate the increasing student population, and were successful in their efforts. The Board of Trustees approved the project in November 2023. 

Key Features of the Overall Renovation Projects:

• 13,000 sq. ft. increase of fitness center space
• Two new turf functional training areas
• Additional, updated fitness equipment
• New and improved multi-purpose spaces
• Functional and modernized locker rooms

As we work through these improvements, we are guided by our priorities centered on student success and providing facilities that support programming for holistic wellness and to strengthen mind, body and spirit. We also are keeping our focus to ensure our facilities, programs and opportunities for participation is equitable, accessible and affordable for all Razorbacks. We want our facilities to encourage community building, social engagement and promote well-being for our Arkansas community. 

All University Recreation programming and offerings will be available during construction. UREC's auxiliary facilities (UREC Fitness Center in the Arkansas Union, UREC Sports Complex, UREC Tennis Center and the Tsa La Gi Bike Park) will be open and operating under normal business hours during the renovation. The swimming pool in the HPER building will also be open and operating during the renovation.  

Updates:

MAIN PHASE OF HPER BUILDING CONSTRUCTION HAS BEGUN; IMPORTANT NEW PROCESSES FOR USERS

The HPER Building renovation project is underway, and new changes are in place to assist in the construction process. The HPER Building will be open and operational throughout the renovation, however starting August 5th accessing recreation spaces and classrooms will be changing. 

HPER BUILDING ENTRANCES & CLOSURES:
 
Starting August 5th:  

The West entry off the Meadow Street Parking Garage will re-open on August 5th. The North entry of the HPER Building (Lot 302 previously known as 45A), will remain open throughout the project.  
 
Also, on this date, the East entry off Stadium Drive will close and the HPER pool will be accessible through the entry off Meadow Street Drive. Please note that locker rooms, showers, and towel services will be unavailable during this time. However, there will be a public space to rinse off and a changing room available in the pool area for use. 

All fitness equipment was moved from the Donna Axum Fitness Center and HPER 220 and was relocated to HPER, Gym 1 (second floor) and the racquetball court hallway (first floor) where it will remain throughout the duration of the renovation.

Read the full Arkansas News article here

Project Partners 

Architects: SmithGroup & Hufft

Construction: C.R. Crawford

Construction Services: UARK Facilities Management

Design: RSM Design 

 

Behind the Scenes Footage: 

 

Archived News Articles: 

July 15, 2024: Phase One of HPER Building Renovations Unnderway
February 24, 2024: HPER Building to Undergo Extensive Renovations

 

Stay Connected

Have a question pertaining to the renovation? Please submit your question using this form and a staff member will get back to you as soon as possible.

Stay tuned for updates or follow along on our Instagram @urecarkansas. 

We appreciate your patience and understanding during the renovation period and look forward to welcoming you to the new and improved campus recreation experience in Fall of 2025.