By Colter Hettich, Features Editor

Most members of the ACU community have at least heard of the administration’s plans to construct a fitness and recreation center on campus. All signs but one point to impending construction: the dollar sign.

The 21st Century Vision that Dr.Royce Money, president of the university, unveiled in October 2006 placed a student wellness and recreation center near the top of the university’s to-do list. Dr. Nicki Rippee, former chair of the exercise science and health department, serves as chair of the student wellness and recreation center committee.

“With the 21st Century Vision, the committee decided the student recreation center was probably first priority as far as buildings go,” Rippee said. “I kind of became the squeaky wheel.”

Rippee included the construction of a recreation center in her required five-year plan since 1998. But a 21st Century Vision declaration of priority and a “squeaky wheel” in the committee chair have not been enough to get the project a spot in the projected budget. Like a seesaw, the economy lifts building and supply costs as the recreation center’s priority drops.

The committee initially planned to keep building costs under $20 million, but Rippee said every day it becomes harder to cover the price tag.

“The university is willing to get a loan once we’ve raised half the money or more,” Rippee said. “[Insufficient funds] was the case in May, and it’s still the case today.”

Even if the committee obtains the minimal half-way mark, a tight budget could mean downsizing various elements. Debates are currently in progress over a climbing wall or a bouldering wall, the shorter, more tame alternative.

Dr. Steve Allison, associate professor and chair of psychology and intercultural studies, said the wellness center aims much higher than merely keeping students in shape.

“Wellness and exercise is such an integral part of stress management,” Allison said. “And just doing a bunch of curls to make your biceps bigger is not what we’re talking about.”

University students across the country that face similar financial dilemmas have taken matters into their own hands. Students at California Polytechnic State University voted for a $65 quarterly fee from each student to cover renovation costs of their current fitness facilities. More than 75 percent of the student body voted in favor of the fee.