EL CAJON
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Grossmont College's physical fitness and health complex had been considered the worst facility in the Grossmont-Cuyamaca Community College District.
Not anymore.
The district spent nearly $9 million to renovate the Exercise Science and Wellness Complex at the El Cajon college, where fall classes started this week.
“To call this project a remodel doesn't do it justice,” Grossmont College President Sunita Cooke said at a ceremony Friday.
The 44-year-old facility was gutted and rebuilt so teachers and students could use the space better, officials said.
Before work began, the 28,000-square-foot complex's roof leaked, plumbing backed up, and the locker and shower areas had no air conditioning. A 2002 study by a district consultant rated the facility the most in need of repair on the district's two campuses.
The revamped complex includes new weight-training and exercise rooms, a multipurpose studio, high-tech classrooms, a film room, and shower and locker areas.
Instructors welcomed the new facilities.
“Research shows that academic achievement improves with increased physical fitness, and now we'll have more room to accommodate popular classes,” said exercise science instructor Beth Kelley.
Students must take exercise science or dance classes to receive an associate's degree. Exercise science is the scientific study of physical activity.
The college's athletic teams will also use the complex.
Funding for the project came from Proposition R, the $207 million bond measure passed by East County voters in 2002. The bond has helped pay for eight new buildings and renovations at Grossmont and Cuyamaca colleges.
Grossmont College is currently building a $24.5 million parking garage. One of the lots will be closed during construction, meaning fewer parking spaces. Only students and certain employees are being allowed to park on campus during that time. Most employees are being required to park in a district-leased lot near Gillespie Field and use a district-funded shuttle service to get to and from work.
Next month Grossmont College begins construction of a $36 million health/physical sciences complex, which will house allied health and nursing programs.
The board also approved plans last week for the $36 million expansion of the student services and student center buildings at Grossmont College with Proposition R funds.
Leonel Sanchez: (619) 542-4568; leonel.sanchez@uniontrib.com
