Morris Recreation Center Expansion Featured in National Campus Recreation Magazine

East Texas A&M's plans to expand Morris Recreation Center have caught national attention. Campus Rec Magazine recently highlighted the university in a feature about innovative recreation center upgrades at colleges across the country, alongside institutions like the University of Arkansas, the University of Kentucky, and Michigan State University.

Morris Recreation Center will grow by more than 5,800 square feet as part of a major renovation scheduled for completion by fall 2026. The project includes several new features and upgrades that will elevate students' fitness experiences at East Texas A&M:

• New Entrance and Lobby: The new entrance will have a modern design and state-of-the-art accessibility features. It will create an inviting gateway to the rec center’s sports, recreation and fitness activities.
• New Changing and Restroom Areas: Visitors will enjoy upgraded, comfortable, and accessible changing rooms and restrooms. Private changing and shower rooms will also be added. They will feature changing tables, extra seating, full showers, and ample storage for bags and personal belongings.
• Improvements to the Pool, Basketball Courts, and Turf Field Entrance: Students will enjoy a streamlined design with redesigned entrances to the pool, basketball courts and turf field.
• Expanded Fitness Areas: The project will include a larger, more versatile fitness area with new cardio machines, weight equipment, and functional and strength training zones.
• Expanded Group Fitness: Two dedicated group fitness studios will expand fitness offerings and space for group reservations: one room will be more strength-based, and the other will be more mind-body and dance-based.

The Campus Rec article emphasized that these types of improvements are becoming more common as colleges increasingly prioritize student well-being. Recreation centers are evolving to meet students' mental and physical health needs, offering everything from updated workout areas to welcoming environments for the entire campus community.

Learn more about the Morris Recreation Center expansion.

Read the full Campus Rec Magazine article.

Virtual image of remodeled Morris Recreation Center. | Morris Rec Center Expansion Project webpage.