University of Houston
Recreation Feasibility Analysis and Referendum Support
Brailsford
& Dunlavey was selected by the University
of Houston in July 1998 to perform a
feasibility study for a comprehensive new
Student Recreation and Wellness Center on the
University's main campus. B&D's tasks
included market analysis, preliminary
architectural programming, site selection,
financial analysis, and support of a student
referendum campaign. The University enlisted
B&D's assistance in response to a student
initiative to improve the quality of life on
the UH campus and replace the University's
small, overcrowded, and functionally obsolete
recreation facilities with a state-of-the art,
dedicated facility.
In the course of the study, B&D analyzed campus demographics and the local health and fitness marketplace; assessed campus demand for recreation facilities through a series of focus groups and a detailed written survey; and developed a comprehensive financial model to balance funding opportunities, building operations, and facility development options. Using these analyses, B&D developed a proposal for a 230,000 square foot facility that could be built and operated with a reasonable student fee. With support from B&D, a student referendum committee undertook a campaign to generate widespread support for the facility and fee proposal throughout the fall of 1998.
The referendum passed in a student election in November 1998. And in January 2003, the $53.1 million Campus Recreation and Wellness Center opened. The nationally recognized facility has received numerous honors, including the National Intramural-Sports Association's (NIRSA) 2004 Outstanding Sports Facility award and a 2007 Architectural Showcase award by Athletic Business Magazine.
