Latest UAH News from the University of Alabama in Huntsville

Exciting developments in sports and recreation facilities are coming to The University of Alabama in Huntsville (UAH). UAH is set to expand its campus with major projects that will greatly enhance its sports and recreation offerings.

Decisions made at a recent meeting of The University of Alabama (UA) System Board of Trustees spotlighted two specific projects: the new UAH Track and Field Complex and a reconfiguration of the University Fitness Center. Both endeavors aim to boost UAH’s standing as an exciting destination for athletic pursuits within the UA System.

UAH’s New Track and Field Complex

The ambitious UAH Track and Field Complex project has cleared a crucial stage with the UA System Board of Trustees granting architectural design approval. The architectural design, crafted by Chapman Sisson Architects, paves the way for UAH to proceed with the project’s next stages, including project bids.

The location of the new complex, repurposing a field and parking lot on the west side of John Wright Drive, marks the creation of UAH’s first on-campus track and field facility.

UAH’s Director of Athletics, Dr. Cade Smith, anticipates that the new complex will significantly bolster the university’s athletics program, already celebrated for its achievements under Coach David Cain’s leadership. The new facility will offer enhanced opportunities for current student-athletes and also strengthen recruitment efforts.

On completion, the complex will equip UAH to host on-campus sporting events, including Gulf South Conference and Division II championship meets.

The complex boasts an NCAA-compliant, 400-meter, 8-lane running track with a high-performance surface for shock absorption. It also includes jumping, vaulting and throwing event venues, along with the following amenities:

• Entry plaza
• Parking area for visiting teams and officials
• Press box with a 500-seat main section of bleachers
• Home and visiting team locker rooms
• Concessions
• Field house with equipment storage

Planned to be delivered in packages for budgetary flexibility, the project is budgeted at $14,210,602.

Upgrades to the University Fitness Center

The UAH’s University Fitness Center (UFC) is also receiving a significant makeover, approved by the UA System Board of Trustees. The $1.2 million project aims to update facilities and infrastructure to current campus standards, enhancing the student and community experience.

The UFC is a hub for sport and fitness activities on campus, serving thousands of students, faculty, staff and community members each year since its opening in 2001. The upgrades to the UFC, expected to be completed in late 2026, will further enhance the campus recreation experience, according to Dr. Ronnie Hebert, vice president for student affairs and dean of students.

The progress of these projects, along with all capital projects, is subject to approval by the UA System Board of Trustees.