The University of Michigan’s New Recreation Hub Set to Launch
As the University of Michigan gears up for its Year of Human Health and Well-being, the unveiling of the Hadley Family Recreation & Well-Being Center marks a significant milestone. This state-of-the-art facility, situated where the Central Campus Recreation Building once stood, is poised to become a cornerstone of health and wellness on campus.
The Hadley Center is set to commence with a soft opening on June 17, with operating hours from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily. Come fall, the center will expand its schedule, welcoming visitors from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. on weekdays, closing at 10 p.m. on weekends.
Initially approved in 2018 but delayed by the pandemic, the $165 million project joins the ranks of the university’s comprehensive recreation facilities, including the North Campus Recreation Building and the Intramural Sports Building.
Martino Harmon, vice president for Student Life, highlighted the center’s impact: “The opening of the Hadley Family Recreation & Well-Being Center marks a significant investment in the student experience at Michigan. The Hadley will help fuel student success by creating new opportunities for our campus community to recharge, build community and thrive.”
The Facilities and Offerings
Spanning over 200,000 square feet, the Hadley Center was designed by RDG Planning and Design and Integrated Design Solutions. It offers diverse facilities, including swimming pools, fitness studios, and courts for various sports, alongside spaces for relaxation and mental well-being.
The center’s creation was buoyed by a $20 million gift from the Hadley family. Rob Ernst, chief health officer, noted, “The Hadley Center is an excellent example of the interconnection between the dimensions of well-being.”
With five floors flooded with natural light, the center is designed to foster both physical and social well-being. Mike Widen, director of Michigan Recreation, emphasized the dual focus: “The sense of community built here will be just as important as building physical health.”
Membership and Access
University of Michigan students can access the facility without additional costs, while faculty and staff have membership options available. Current pricing is $35 monthly or $380 annually for faculty and staff.
Primary focus remains on serving the university’s community, including students, faculty, staff, alumni, and retirees.
Facility Highlights
Upon entering through the main entrance at Pitt Family Plaza, visitors are greeted by a check-in area and various fitness and social spaces. The facility’s lower levels house aquatics, racquetball, and strength training areas, while upper levels feature gymnasiums, fitness rooms, and a dedicated mind and body studio.
On the top floor, users can find the Josephine Tsao Mind & Body Studio, offering exercise spaces with expansive campus views. The center’s climbing wall, standing at 52 feet, is among the tallest at any campus recreation facility in the nation.
Commitment to Sustainability and Accessibility
The Hadley Center aims for LEED Platinum certification, utilizing energy-efficient systems and solar panels to minimize fossil fuel use and environmental impact. Additionally, it offers inclusive facilities with accessible pathways, restrooms, and adaptive fitness equipment.
The design is mindful of diverse abilities, providing accessible entrances and various adaptive equipment options. The center also features inclusive locker rooms for those preferring a non-gendered or private changing experience.
