Students, faculty, and staff gathered near the Ron Joyce Stadium at McMaster on Friday for a ceremonial groundbreaking to expand student activity space and improve athletic facilities.

The McMaster Students Union (MSU) Board of Directors, President Ikram Farah, Stephanie Bertolo, Kristina Epifano, and Scott Robinson were joined by John McGowan, MSU General Manager, Sean Van Koughnett, AVP and Dean of Students, and Mark Alfano, Associate Director of Athletics and Recreation.

“This is a real example of what a partnership means,” said Sean Van Koughnett. “We have truly worked together to make this happen for students.”

In March 2017 students voted in a referendum to have a significant expansion and improvement of campus activity and athletic recreation space, including adding nearly 100,000 square feet of fitness studios, study areas, multi-faith prayer space, and meeting facilities.

The plan calls for the expansion of the Pulse fitness area, providing all students with Pulse memberships, a small grocery store, and rooms for events and meetings.

The expanded facilities will contribute to a revitalization of the north end of campus, which is also the site of the Peter George Living and Learning Centre.

Construction of the addition begins October 2018.