Rec Sports has received several questions about the recent article in the Badger Herald concerning the proposed Natatorium as part of the Facilities Master Plan. There has been some confusion that the “downsized” facility applies to the current size of the Natatorium. The change in scope of the building applies to the original proposal that was brought to several student groups in presentations by the Division. While this article also implies the current Natatorium proposal would not meet space standards, the new facility would be a significant expansion of current space and will certainly be able to better meet student demand on the campus.
In light of results from the recent facilities survey and in conversations with students on campus, Rec Sports has requested a redesign of the Natatorium in order to present students with two considerations for the site.
The Division is currently working to reallocate space within the facility to reflect a more efficient layout. While some space will be lost in a second proposal, a decrease in scale will imply a decreased cost to students who will help fund the project through segregated fees.
Rec Sports will continue to engage with and inform students about progress of the Facilities Master Plan. If you have feedback or questions about, please comment below or send an email to marketing@recsports.wisc.edu.
The Master Plan. 
Why not build a new build in Lot 34 along the lake that would be closer to the heart of campus. A pool and work out rooms with views of the lake. With office space toward the hill. Or else a facility near the Union where the Hydraulic Engineering Building is located.
These all sound like great ideas for new facilities! Unfortunately, due to our discussions with the campus and due to the overall Campus Master Plan, the existing sites are the only options we are able to consider at this time.
While this article implies the current Natatorium proposal would not meet space standards, the new facility would be a significant expansion of current space and will certainly be able to better meet student demand on the campus.
In light of results from the recent facilities survey and in conversations with students on campus, Rec Sports has requested a redesign of the Natatorium in order to present students with two considerations for the site.
The Division is currently working to reallocate space within the facility to reflect a more efficient layout. While some space will be lost in a second proposal, a decrease in scale will imply a decreased cost to students who will help fund the project through segregated fees.
Rec Sports will continue to engage with and inform students about progress of the Facilities Master Plan. If you have feedback or questions about, please comment below or send an email to marketing@recsports.wisc.edu.