The project is estimated at $71 million with a projected annual debt service of $5 million over 30 years. Per the financial pro-formas, incremental fee revenue as a result of the increase will not cover debt service until about fiscal year 2018. So in a sense, all of the incremental revenue will go towards the expansion although, from an accounting perspective, it is just one big pool of funds. The UU fee is currently $116.83 per quarter.  More information about the breakdown of fees can be viewed at:  http://studentaffairs.calpoly.edu/feeref/  

Would you like to see the REC Center expansion save energy and money over the lifespan of the building by incorporating LEED Certification? Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Certification encourages sustainable green building practices by providing an independent, third-party verification that a building project meets the green building and performance measures.

Link to LEED video for more info:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8tTVgL3xrFk

Which leads us to answer the last question that was made regarding why is ASI procuring a Bond Fund to pay for the construction of the potential project? ASI programs and facilities are funded through student auxiliary fees because the state of California does not provide funding for the construction of non-academic facilities. Currently only $37/student per quarter goes to the recreational sports programs to maintain and operate the current 124,000 sq. foot Recreation Center. The 30 year bond allows the students to vote for the project and not have to make any additional payments until the facility is complete. 

Another comment was received regarding the sizing of the newer gym courts to be able to accommodate NCAA competitions. One of the main reasons that the students wanted to vote on an expansion of the Rec Center is due to the lack of gym courts for informal and intramural programs. Back in 1987 when the original Rec Center referendum was passed to build the current facility, the Cal Poly student body was very clear that they didn’t want to loose any of their gym courts to intercollegiate programs. All funding for the project was from student fees and not from Cal Poly and the Athletic Department.

A comment was received regarding the projects sustainability design.  ASI Student Government President, Brandon Souza, has been a huge proponent of sustainability on campus and all of ASI has made this a priority.  In addition, the CSU Chancellors’ office recently adopted Executive Order 987 that states “The CSU shall design and build all new buildings and major renovations beginning in the FY 2006-2007 to meet or exceed the minimum requirements of the CSU Sustainability Measurement System, which shall be equivalent to LEEDTM ‘Certified’.  Each campus shall strive to achieve a higher standard in the CSU Sustainability Measurement System equivalent to LEEDTM ‘Silver’ within project budget constraints”.  ASI and Cal Poly are very committed to not only meeting, but exceeding this goal.

ASI has been working hard to find out what you, the student, want and need for the potential expanded Recreation Center. We have received many great comments and suggestions over the past few months. Below are some answers to previous blog comments that will hopefully help clarify the project. Remember to check our FAQ’s and Top Ten List for additional information.

Of the many issues that concern Cal Poly students, one of the most popular is: Sustainability.  But what does that buzz word we hear so often around campus mean? The Environmental Protection Agency defines sustainability as “meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.” Still a little confused?

The definition goes on to describe the concept of sustainability as being “ideas, aspirations and values,” that inspire members of society “to become better stewards of the environment and that promote positive economic growth and social objectives.  The principles of sustainability can stimulate technological innovation, advance competitiveness, and improve our quality of life.” 

Improvement in our quality of life?  I’m sold and so is Associated Students Inc., which is why if Cal Poly students chose to expand the Recreation Center, it will incorporate many green building practices. In fact, new policy from the State of California now requires all new buildings on CSU campuses to meet a minimum set of green building standards. In ASI’s commitment to sustainability, the Rec Center Expansion Project will use current and future best sustainable building practices to ensure that the renovated facility not only meets these standards, but exceeds them. 

Overcrowding is a perpetual problem at the Rec Center. Students are frustrated, to say the least. Now the decision is in the hands of the Cal Poly students as to whether or not they will pass a fee increase on Feb. 27-28, 2008.

The proposed fee increase is $65 per quarter. Read the Top 10 Facts of the Recreation Center Expansion project. For more information call ASI Student Government 756-1291.