Morris Recreation Center
Welcome to Our Expansion Project!
We are excited to announce the upcoming expansion and renovation of the Morris Recreation Center. This major development is designed to enhance the overall student experience and support the physical, mental, and social wellbeing of our entire campus community.
Project Overview
The Morris Recreation Center (MRC) has been a cornerstone of student life for over 20 years, offering various facilities and activities, from fitness classes to sports and well-being programs. As our campus grows, so does the need for a facility to accommodate the increasing demand for recreational space, cutting-edge equipment, and modern amenities. This expansion project will improve and expand upon the current facility, creating a more welcoming, versatile, and accessible space for all.
What We Are Expanding
The renovation and expansion will introduce several new features and upgrades to elevate your experience at the Morris Recreation Center
New Entrance and Lobby
With a modern, welcoming design and state-of-the-art accessibility features, the new entrance creates an inviting gateway to all the sports, recreation, and fitness activities waiting for you inside. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a long-time member, you can get assistance, sign up for programs, or find out about the latest events happening at the center.
New Changing and Restroom Areas
The newly renovated changing and restroom areas offer an upgraded, comfortable and accessible experience for all visitors. Whether you’re heading to a fitness class, swimming pool, or sporting event, we’ve reimagined these spaces to meet your needs and enhance your visit.
Additionally, we've added private changing and shower rooms. These fully equipped rooms are perfect with changing tables, extra seating, full showers and ample storage for bags and personal belongings.
Key Improvements to the Pool, Basketball Courts, and Turf Field Entrance
With redesigned entrances to the pool, basketball courts and turf field, you'll spend less time getting to your destination and more time doing what you love.
Expanded Fitness Areas
The project will include a larger, more diverse fitness area with new cardio machines, weight equipment and functional and strength training zones.
Expanded Group Fitness
Two dedicated group fitness studios will expand our fitness offerings and space for group reservations: one room that’s more strength-based and one room that’s more mind- body- and dance-based.
Project Timeline
The expansion and renovation will occur in phases, ensuring minimal disruption to ongoing operations while maximizing progress. Here’s a breakdown of the timeline:
Phase 1: Spring 2025 – Fall 2025
- The temporary entrance and exit are on the south side of the MRC along the big glass windows where the weight room is.
- Campus Rec staff offices moved to the 3rd floor of the Journalism Building
- Preparation for construction, including site assessments and relocation of temporary facilities.
- Construct the new fitness addition, entrance, and changing/shower rooms/locker area
- Renovate the staff office suite
Phase 2: Fall 2025 – Summer 2026
- The temporary entrance and exit are through the MRC Turf Field.
- Renovate current lockers into a new fitness space
- Renovate the weight room floors into two new activity rooms
- The new changing and shower rooms are open
- The new fitness addition is open
- Final inspections and adjustments.
Grand Opening: Summer/Fall 2026
Positive Impact on the Student Community
The MRC expansion and renovation will have a transformative impact on our student body, supporting both physical and mental health while fostering a sense of community. Here's how the project will benefit you:
Enhanced Fitness and Wellbeing
With new fitness spaces and wellness facilities, students will have access to state-of-the-art equipment and a wider variety of classes and activities, encouraging healthier lifestyles.
Accessible Design
The expanded center will ensure that all students, regardless of ability, can participate in physical activities, relax or recover in an environment that promotes a sense of belonging and accessibility.
Stronger Campus Community
With a new modern look, equipment, and spaces that foster collaboration and social engagement, the MRC will continue to create an environment where people from all backgrounds can meet, interact and form lasting relationships.
Increased Student Engagement
The expanded spaces will provide more opportunities for fitness programs, workouts, social interaction and recreational activities, fostering greater student involvement and engagement in campus life.
Stay Connected
We are committed to informing the campus community throughout the renovation. Follow the latest updates and learn more about project milestones, construction phases and upcoming events on our official website, community calendar and social media.
Thanks for your continued support as we work to enhance the Morris Recreation Center and create a vibrant and innovative space for all students. We can't wait to welcome you to the brand new Morris Recreation Center in 2026!
Share your experience on social media using the hashtag #MRCExpansion and connect with us for the latest updates and upcoming events.
For more information, please contact us at [email protected].
Frequently Asked Questions
While we aim to minimize disruptions, some temporary closures may occur during specific construction phases. Updates will be communicated regularly via email and social media.
Yes! The current facility will remain operational throughout most of the construction. Certain areas may be temporarily relocated, but the majority of the fitness equipment and programming will remain available.
Yes, you still need to swipe in with your Lion Card or mobile credentials.
There may be temporary changes to operating hours during the construction phase to accommodate work schedules and reduce any safety concerns. Any changes will be communicated in advance through signage, our website, and social media.
Some recreational programs or classes may be relocated or rescheduled depending on the areas affected by the construction. We will work to ensure that existing programs continue with minimal disruption, and alternative options will be made available for participants.
The total cost of the expansion is estimated at $17 million dollars. This figure covers the construction, design, and outfitting of the new and renovated spaces. In 2026, the bond debt for the current Morris Recreation Center and MAC will be paid off in order to take on another bond debt.
Want to know more?
START YOUR ACTIVE JOURNEY!
Contact Us
- Campus Recreation
- 903.468.3181
- [email protected]
- 2600 W. Neal St.
- Commerce, TX 75428
