Residents of Danieley Center may have a shorter walk to a fitness center in upcoming months. New plans have been proposed space in Danieley Center Commons be used for a small fitness center complete with two treadmills, two Arc Trainers, two exercise bikes and a stretching mat.

The fitness center is part of a university goal to focus on improving and enhancing the commons facilities for each residential area. Danieley Center is the first area to receive improvements.

“The goals of the renovation included updating the Commons and making it more attractive for students, adding new features like the fitness room and providing more user-friendly meeting and study space,” said Jeff Stein, assistant dean of students.

New furniture for the main lounge will be arriving in the next few months, along with a foosball table and a cards table, Stein said.

The fitness equipment is already on campus and is expected to be installed once the building’s doors are wired for security.

The fitness center will be located in the back room of the Commons building at Danieley. Fitness Center hours will be 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. and students will access the facilities by swiping their Phoenix card.

“Having a gym right next door will definitely give me more incentive to exercise since I won’t have to trek all the way to campus to do it,” said freshmen Rosalie Trujillo, a Danieley Center resident. “I’ll probably participate in a more intense workout given that I won’t be traveling as far and wearing myself out beforehand.”

Not all students are in support of the possible fitness center. Many think the walk to campus shouldn’t be a hindrance if a student is going to workout.

“Danieley doesn’t need a fitness center, the walk to and from campus is exercise enough,” one Danieley Center resident said.

What has many students concerned is the future of favorite food options that are currently found in the commons building.

“Aramark is doing focus groups with current and past Danieley Center residents to get student input on the future of the grill area,” said Stein. “Although some form of food service will be offered, I think everyone is waiting to see how the new dining hall will impact student needs and wants for the grill area.”

So far many students support the proposed Danieley Fitness Center.

“It’s really nice that they are providing yet another gym for non-varsity athletes, where they can feel comfortable working out and staying in shape,” said freshmen Lara Hamade.

“I think people will also be more willing to go work out if the gym isn’t so crowded,” said freshman Taylor Zorski. “The Danieley Fitness Center will probably free up some of the equipment in Koury so everyone can get a work out in.”

In addition to the fitness center, Danieley Center Commons has received three new computers and a print station. More computers and furniture will be added as plans for the existing grill area are completed.

Reporter: Amanda Duberman - 09/12/07