It's new and improved. It's bigger and better. There's only one catch -- it won't be done for another 16 months.
The construction currently taking place at the Aquatic & Fitness Center has caused more than a few stretched necks.
According to Intramural-Recreational Sports, the final project will include a three-court gymnasium, an indoor jogging track, multipurpose rooms to accommodate aerobics, yoga, dance and martial arts, additional free weight space and an expansion of the existing space for cardiovascular exercise and cycling classes.
One problem associated with the construction, however, is parking. Third-year College student Daphne Rankin has had to adjust her workout routines around trips to the AFC.
"All summer I went to Slaughter to work out and walked to the AFC if I wanted to swim," Rankin said. "I think it's annoying that there's less parking now, and there wasn't enough in the first place."
The new designated AFC parking spots, located on the east side of the building (Whitehead Road and Geldard Drive) are farther away and more spread out.
But third-year College student and AFC manager, Emily Mollick, does not seem to think there's any way around it.
"I know it's not ideal, but there's really no other way to do it," Mollick said. "Once the construction's done, I think everyone will be happy with the gym."
And not all patrons seem frustrated with the change.
"Honestly, I haven't had a problem," said Gennie Obrig, a Charlottesville resident. "It's only a farther walk."
Although the adjusted parking lot has added a few steps to his workout, third-year College student Ryan O'Donnell doesn't seem to mind either.
"As long as I have a spot, I don't care," O'Donnell said.
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