Students have approved a significant expansion and improvement of campus activity and athletic space, including adding nearly 100,000 square feet of fitness studios, study areas, multi-faith and meeting facilities.

In a referendum this week, 59% voted in favour of contributing to the construction of a new Student Activity Building, the expansion of the Pulse fitness area and improvements to existing facilities.

The new building and the expanded facilities will contribute to a revitalization of the north end of campus, which is also the site of the Living and Learning Centre now under construction.

“This is a landmark decision by our students,” says Justin Monaco-Barnes, President of the McMaster Students Union. “Students together with the University are investing in a significant initiative that will benefit all students.”

Earlier this year, students narrowly rejected a proposal to build the Student Activity Building and to expand athletic facilities. After that vote, the University found one-time additional funding of $10m to invest in the project. The new proposal was the subject of this week’s referendum.

“The students have clearly identified as a priority new activity and athletic space and we’re pleased to be partners with them to help meet that need,” says Sean Van Koughnett, Associate Vice-President Students and Learning and Dean of Students. “We’re looking forward to getting to work on what will be transformative projects on our campus.”

The new Student Activity Building will include space for all students, providing study and lounge space, a multi-faith area, a small grocery store and rooms for events and meetings.

The plan calls for the expansion of the Pulse fitness area, providing all students with Pulse memberships and other upgrades. Students will contribute to these projects with an additional $95 fee starting in the 2017/18 academic year and a further $2.99 per unit capital fee increase when the building opens. That opening is scheduled for 2019/20.