May 17-18, 2001
ITEM
111-1501-R0501������ Authorization to
Proceed to Design and Construct an Expansion to the Health, Physical Education
and Recreation (HPER) Building; Montana Tech of The University of Montana
THAT:����������������������������������� The Board of Regents of Higher Education authorizes Montana
Tech to renovate an area within its HPER Building in order to increase space
for its weight room area.� This
expansion responds to increased student demand as well as safety requirements.� This authorization includes approval for
Montana Tech to take out an Intercap loan of $300,000 to be repaid through
student fees.� Upon repayment of the
loan, the student fee revenue would support the operation of the HPER facility.
EXPLANATION:����������������� Students initiated this weight room expansion project to improve the quality of student
wellness, physical fitness, and strength training facilities.� The current space exceeds safety standards
due to the close proximity of heavy and potentially dangerous equipment and overcrowding.� New additional strength training equipment
will also be purchased for the expanded facility. The new fee to support this
project is being requested by the students through Montana Tech�s submission to
the MUS Validation and Inventory of Fees process.� On two occasions, student votes strongly supported the project
and the new mandatory fee.� The Montana
Tech Administration supports this student initiative.� The expansion will convert existing space to create a new room at
the second floor level of the building.�
This new room will be in close proximity to the existing weight room,
also on the second floor, allowing for convenient access to both.� A completed preliminary architect�s design
determined feasibility and provides an accurate cost estimate.�
ATTACHMENTS: Preliminary
drawings for project.