POE of RPAC Linden Babcock

Recreation & Physical Activity Center 569,459 sq. ft. $140 million Phase I open: Summer 2005 Phase II open: Winter 2007 Architect: Moody Nolan Design Architect: Antoine Predock

Outdoor Spaces

Method/ Findings Over three days, took observations of how many people were at the site and what they were doing Monday ThursdaySaturday The mornings had the most traffic that passed through the site whereas in the afternoons people used the site as a destination

Method/ Findings Interviewed 20 people coming to the facility and around campus. Most people come to the RPAC after work and arrive by walking or bicycle. Most people are not coming to the RPAC to use the outdoor spaces.

The RPAC was an obstacle to those who rode bikes because they couldn’t ride through the main plaza The lightning overall people thought was good, except on the north stairs. On a scale of 1 to 5, 5 being the best, most people thought the exterior design was alright, but that there could be improvements Most people came to the RPAC to workout Everyone surveyed said they feel safe in and around the RPAC On a scale of 1 to 5, 5 being the best, most people disliked the plantings, especially now that we haven’t had rain in a while.

Conclusion Most people came to the RPAC after work or class Everyone felt safe Exterior space not heavily used as a destination Lighting not good on the north stairs and stairs are awkwardly spaced Exterior spaces not comfortable –too hot and open About half felt the RPAC was an obstacle, especially when riding a bike Got some comments that at first the RPAC seemed so big and intimidating, but now that they’ve used it they really like it

Suggestions Short term – Add large planters with trees to provide interest and shade – Better upkeep of existing landscaping – Add lighting to north stairs Long Term – Get rid of some hardscaping to make it a more comfortable space for people – Add trees or some sort of screening for shade