Fresno State has posted its 132-page facilities master plan on the university Web site. A new aquatics center -- home of the revived women's swimming and diving team -- is slated for an area next to the North Gym. But the plan isn't clear on what is to become of the North Gym's indoor pool.
Here's one vote for keeping the indoor pool. It's an architectural classic, a piece of the campus that highlights its mid-20th century roots.
The facilities master plan focuses on students' quality of life as well as their education. Remodel that pool, fix up the walled courtyard next to it, and future students would have a unique and enticing way to enjoy their Fresno State experience.
Cynthia Teniente-Matson, Fresno State vice president for administration, says the new aquatics center should cost in the $7 million range and be financed with a loan from within the California State University system. She says it's too early to identify the center's features or construction timeline.
The North Gym Pool. Originally, the "Men's" Gym, is an antiquated pool that might cost more to keep than to tear down. However, it is a beautiful piece of architecture, and was the first building on Fresno States "New" campus. It was originally occupied by Ara Hairabedian. It is ironic that the man who occupied the first office on Fresno states Campus, was kicked out some 35 years later. It should also be noted that Pete Beiden, and Vince Petrucci were also the first to be teaching on the new campus. Three pioneers, and only one has a structure named after him.