Ambler Recreation Center set for major renovations to expand space, improve student experience

The Ambler Student Recreation Center at the University of Kansas is preparing for a major renovation project aimed at expanding workout space and enhancing the overall student experience. The multiphase project is expected to begin this summer with planning and design, while construction will officially start in the fall.

Jason Crone, a recreation official, says the timeline will stretch into next year. “The renovation will probably take place most of next year, so this summer we’ll spend most of the time designing it, and then there will be three phases of construction next year.”

The need for renovations is partly driven by how the facility compares to its peers. Ambler Student Recreation Center currently ranks last in the Big 12 Conference in indoor square footage. “When we did the masterplan, it says we’re about 120,000 square feet short of indoor space for a university our size,” Crone said.

The project will focus on both expansion and reorganization. Planned upgrades include new aerobics studios, a cycling studio, and reconfigured weight room areas. Existing spaces will also be repurposed to improve flow and functionality throughout the building. 

“We’re gonna add an aerobics studio; we’re gonna move our dumbbells and our pre-loaded bars closer to the main weight room… we’ll also take racquetball court four and turn that into a cycle studio,” Crone said. “Where our current martial arts studio is, we’ll renovate that for a second aerobics studio and a multi-purpose room.”

Students say the changes are needed, especially during busy times when the facility feels overcrowded. 

 “I feel like a lot of people are always crowded in [the weight room] and honestly the renovations will make it a better workout environment for people,” said weight room specialist Evan Prince. 

Both students and staff note that peak hours can make it difficult to find equipment or space, impacting the consistency of workouts. Prince believes the renovations could also improve how students view the facility. “I just think it would encourage people to come to the rec more instead of just seeing like some old rec center, and honestly just improve people’s general view towards our rec center.”

Ultimately, recreation officials hope the upgrades will modernize the facility and attract more student use. “Not only does it make sense, but it just creates a better environment and better experience for students to workout,” Crone said.

Students can follow updates on the project through the university’s recreation website.