A digital rendering of the proposed interior entrance of the Morris Recreation Center.

Morris Recreation Center Prepares for Transformative Expansion

The expansion reflects Campus Recreation's ongoing commitment to serving the university population and the surrounding community.

Campus Recreation at East Texas A&M University recently announced a significant expansion project for the Morris Recreation Center (MRC).

The project aims to enhance fitness, recreation and engagement opportunities and a next-level experience for students, faculty, staff and the community.

“We're thrilled to announce the expansion and renovation of the Morris Recreation Center, a project that reflects our commitment to connect, educate and inspire people to lifelong activity and well-being,” said Autumn Johnson, director of Campus Recreation. “This project has been in the works for two years, including student focus groups, financial planning and determining programmatic priorities. We can't wait to see these improvements transform the lives of the Lion community.”

A transformed space

The expansion promises to transform the center's current space, with renovations including:

  • A 5,800-square-foot fitness addition, creating more room for equipment and activities.
  • Two new activity rooms to support classes and group programs.
  • A new, welcoming entrance to improve accessibility and offer a modern first impression.
  • A dedicated office suite for Campus Recreation staff, improving service and operational efficiency.
  • New restrooms, showers and changing areas for added convenience.
  • Upgraded entrances to the pool and multi-activity court, enhancing access to these popular features.
A digital rendering of the proposed fitness area at the Morris Recreation Center.
A digital rendering depicts a proposed fitness area included in the Morris Recreation Center expansion project. Image courtesy of Campus Recreation | East Texas A&M University.

A legacy of community service

In the 20 years since its debut, the MRC has become a cornerstone of the East Texas A&M community. Beyond just a fitness center, it's a hub for camaraderie, personal growth and well-being. Guided by the motto “Active Body. Active Mind,” Campus Recreation has continually adapted to the changing needs of MRC users by expanding and enhancing the facility’s offerings and amenities.

Today, the center features advanced fitness equipment, an indoor climbing wall, basketball and racquetball courts, group fitness activity rooms and outdoor spaces including the pool and multi-activity court.

This newest expansion reflects Campus Recreation's ongoing commitment to serving the university population and the surrounding community. Building on its legacy of growth, the center remains dedicated to fostering well-being and engagement for all visitors.

A digital rendering of the proposed activity rooms at the Morris Recreation Center.
A digital rendering depicts the proposed activity rooms included in the Morris Recreation Center expansion project. Image courtesy of Campus Recreation | East Texas A&M University.

Expansion timeline and temporary relocation

The expansion project kicked off on December 4 with the relocation of Campus Recreation staff offices to the third floor of the Journalism Building. Construction at the Morris Recreation Center is scheduled to begin on December 14.

Campus Recreation will provide regular progress updates through its social media channels, a dedicated expansion webpage and the university's student and faculty/staff announcements to ensure the center's user community remains informed throughout the project.

The next generation of wellness

With these enhancements, the Morris Recreation Center is set to become an even more dynamic space designed to support fitness, connection and growth opportunities at East Texas A&M for years to come.

View a gallery of project renderings and follow Campus Recreation on Facebook, Instagram and X.