Spaulding Gym Bleachers and Floor to be Replaced

The wooden bleachers and hardwood floor in Spaulding Gym are finally being replaced! The bleachers and floor are both original to the construction of the building in 1966. Both were due to be replaced during the 2003 construction of the Recreation Center and renovation of Spaulding Gym, but neither project went forward.

Heavy use and enthusiastic sports fans have taken a toll, despite regular maintenance. The hardwood floor is so thin in spots from being sanded and refinished that it cannot be sanded one more time, and a basketball does not bounce consistently on all parts of the floor.

The bleachers require regular repair and maintenance. Despite spending more than $80,000 in repairs since 2002, the metal framing is crooked, loose, and fatigued. It is more and more difficult to telescope the bleachers in and out for games, and the current bleachers are not ADA compliant. The new bleachers will meet ADA standards.

Replacement will occur this summer and should be complete before the start of the fall semester.