A plan to demolish Intramural Recreational Sports West, commonly known as IM West, could be approved by the Michigan State University Board of Trustees at its upcoming Feb. 7 meeting.
The resolution to authorize the university to plan for IM West’s demolition is recommended by the board’s budget and finance committee, citing the aging building’s high refurbishment cost, functional obsolescence and inability to be repurposed for any other use.
"The majority of the facility is not air‐conditioned, ventilation does not comply with current standards and due to structural limitations, adding air conditioning is not feasible," the board item’s resource impact statement states. "Windows are aged, inefficient, and most of the air handling units and fire protection systems are at the end of their useful life. Overall, the facility's high energy consumption and outdated infrastructure make it a poor investment."
Built in 1958, IM West is currently the largest recreational sports facility on campus containing 7,000 square feet dedicated to free weights as well as an indoor pool and a multipurpose gym that seats 650. The building also houses a variety of kinesiology and group fitness classes.
Demolition of IM West would be expected to occur in spring of 2027, after the Student Recreation and Wellness Center is opened. Most of IM West’s functions will be accommodated in the new 293,000-square-foot facility, although new locations for the wrestling program and kinesiology classes will need to be identified.
Once demolished, the site is slated to become additional parking and green space. The State News, in November, reported that additional green space where IM West currently stands could prevent flooding by the Red Cedar River by acting as a buffer.
Support student media! Please consider donating to The State News and help fund the future of journalism.
