Sasaki, in collaboration with Weber Murphy Fox, developed a new state-of-the-art facility that replaces Behrend’s outdated recreation center.

“I love that there is something for everyone,” said Kerry Wilson, Behrend’s Campus Recreation Manager. “It’s life-changing for the campus community.”

The 52,700-square-foot building features a three-court gymnasium, fitness and aerobics rooms, training space and support for the college’s NCAA Division III baseball, softball, tennis, cross-country, track and field, and wrestling teams. Erie Hall also is the new home of the college’s Personal Counseling offices, bringing mental and physical health and wellness programs together under one roof. The program is organized into fitness neighborhoods, designed to make the spaces feel accessible to students at all fitness levels.

There are six squat racks, scores of free weights and strength training stations and rows of treadmills, ellipticals, and other cardio and strength machines.

“This new space is exciting because it combines dynamic, active recreation spaces, varsity athletic spaces, and student wellness spaces in a highly visible and accessible campus location,” says Sasaki principal Bill Massey. “The building serves as a campus connector. It’s meant to be inviting from all sides while providing a clear and welcoming identity for these important campus programs.”