Johnson Center Expansion & Renovation (JCER)

The Johnson Center Expansion & Renovation (JCER) Project is a combination of new construction, demolition and partial renovation to the existing 300,000 GSF Johnson Center. The JCER project contains a total of 110,832 GSF. On September 11, 2015, the Board of Regents adopted a Resolution of intent to issue up to $218,000,000 of System Improvement and Refunding Revenue Bonds. $35,000,000 of those bonds has been designated for the JCER project. As design and construction continue, through careful decision making, the stakeholder team remains optimistic that alternates will be able to be completed as part of the project. The renovated spaces of 57,200 GSF currently includes the South Gym and potential Add Alternates include multipurpose fitness rooms to be shared by student groups and academic classes. Building use impacts for renovated areas offset as the large gymnasium will remain in use for multiple sports, classes and other activities. The current weight room will be temporarily relocated into the Auxiliary Gym and remain open and fully functioning. There will be no impact on the 3 aquatic pools. Additionally there will be no impact on classrooms, labs, faculty offices and departmental offices. New Addition spaces of 53,632 GSF include new weight training and cardio fitness (double the current space size), indoor running/walking track, indoor cycling, Bike and Outdoor Adventures Shop, east entrance with lobby and social spaces, and exterior site amenities. This new addition of square footage is identified as auxiliary, not instruction and general. Potential Add Alternates include an area for rock climbing/bouldering walls to be shared by student groups and exterior finish upgrades. Building use impacts for new construction are offset as the adjacent playing fields will also take some of the overflow for activities that can be converted from indoor to outdoor activities, weather permitting. More fitness classes in alternate locations across campus, including North Campus will occur. Several private fitness centers will offer discounted memberships to UNM students, faculty, and staff through the Lobo Perks program. The Project will be designed and executed as a “LEED Silver” certified facility.

In November of 2015 The University of New Mexico sought approval from the NEW MEXICO HIGHER EDUCATION DEPARTMENT for issuance of System Revenue Bonds (the “Bonds”) to fund the construction or improvement of three facilities, one of which was an expansion and renewal of the Johnson Center recreational facility.  The JCER project is an essential facility for the future of The University of New Mexico.  The new facility will be used primarily for open recreation by students, faculty and staff under the direction of the Recreational Services Department of the Division of Student Affairs. The new facility will also serve as a recruiting tool in attracting new students. Recreational Services also provides space for student recreational clubs and groups as well as sponsoring off-campus programming. The new facility will enhance the on-campus experience for existing students, especially those residing on Central Campus. Bond refunding was approved in 2017 by HED and the SBOF. Johnson Center was included on the institutions 5 Year Capital Plan. Johnson Center currently houses the Health, Exercise & Sports Sciences Department (HESS) of the College of Education. A portion of the new and renovated areas will be shared with HESS for academic classes. Additionally, Johnson Center houses Athletics Department operations for both the Lobo Volleyball and the Lobo Ski Teams. Johnson Center use is free for all students, faculty, staff, and retirees, with the exception of specialty training classes. A guest pass is available for users that accompany a UNM member. Additionally, Rec Cards are available to alumni and spouse/domestic partners.