DBAC updating its indoor running track following damages from the construction of the Hub and renovations at Pulse Fitness Centre
Beginning Sept. 18, the indoor running track at the David Braley Athletic Centre is to be closed for renovations. Until renovations are complete, users should anticipate intermittent noise and disruptions to third-floor facility access.
The track features a four-lane, 200-metre running track and a 60-metre sprint area, commonly used for casual walks, jogging, and running.
In an email statement to the Silhouette, T. J. Kelly, manager of facilities and events at McMaster University, stated that the renovations will primarily focus on updating the track's surface alongside minor repairs such as drywall patching and a fresh coat of paint.
“The key reason for the refresh came following the construction of the Hub and renovation to the Pulse Fitness Centre as part of the student activity fitness expansion project, as some unexpected damage occurred to the indoor running track, despite efforts to protect the surface during construction,” stated Kelly.
The project, which began in the summer of 2018, had an estimated construction value of $42 million and included the construction of a new four-story student activity building known as The Hub and renovations to the existing DBAC Pulse Fitness Centre.
Kelly noted that sourcing replacement materials for the track was both difficult and expensive, as the current surface, installed when DBAC opened in 2006, was nearing the end of its lifespan after many years of service. "This was an opportunity for us to provide much-needed updates to the facility,” stated Kelly.
This was an opportunity for us to provide much-needed updates to the facility.
T.J. Kelly, Manager
Facilities and Events
Kelly stated that McMaster's Facility Services is coordinating with the project managers and contractors to minimize disruptions, although Kelly acknowledged potential short-term closures of certain areas outside of the track for safety reasons.
Currently, when the repairs will be completed has yet to be determined.
Entrance from Main St. W. to campus will be blocked between Mar. 20 to 25 and community will be redirected to gain access to campus
McMaster University community was asked to be aware that the Main St. W entrance to campus will not be accessible between Mar. 20 and 25. The entrance will blocked in order to maintain safety standards as construction continues on Hamilton Health Sciences McMaster University Medical Centre.
"This closure is required for a Hamilton Health Sciences’ project that includes the setup of a construction crane and lifting of pipe risers on to the roof of the McMaster University Medical Centre," stated an article from McMaster DailyNews released on Mar. 13.
The university urged those who utilize the Main St. W. entrance to be aware their travel times might increase. Those who travel to campus in vehicles were asked to enter through either Cootes Dr. or Sterling St. entrances, while for those who travel by foot, the University says the sidewalk between the Engineering Technology Building and T13 is functional.
The entrance is expected to reopen at 4 p.m. on Mar. 25, 2024. McMaster University said that any updates to the closed entrance will be provided through Daily News.