The construction crew wasted no time getting to work on the University Commons. Fencing around the site went up on Monday, May 24, and by Tuesday, graders had cut a construction road and shovels had begun to clear the site. New walkways and entraces also are being constructed this week around the construction site. See the map at www.arcadia.edu/construction-map.

The University Commons will add 50,000 square feet to the front of the Kuch Center Recreation and Athletic Center. Designed to be a center for student life, the University Commons will have three floors of spaces—all with views of the campus green—for dining, student clubs and activities, meetings and conferences, art exhibits, and fitness.

Ninety-six geothermal wells under Kuch Field will provide the heating and cooling for the new building, and power the new cooling system for the gymnasium. The Commons includes meeting rooms, lounges, and multipurpose spaces to accommodate groups of varying sizes. A large meeting room on the lower level is a place for assemblies of 500 people, banquets, and dances. A group of large meeting spaces on the upper level accommodates student activities, trustees meetings, and can also function as a conference center. Numerous smaller spaces, enclosed and open lounges, the game room, and the fireplace lounge provide a variety of opportunities for informal group meetings and relaxing.

The student activities area on the second floor is a space for club meetings and student organizations, with University staff offices nearby. A gallery for student and faculty work adjoins the main entrance and building lobby. A café and a separate espresso bar provide other opportunities to gather in the building.

The existing athletics and fitness facilities are being expanded to include new fitness and aerobics rooms.

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