North Recreational Complex East Carolina University

Greenville, N.C.
Construction Cost: $6.45 million
Occupancy Date: September 2011

Increased demand for instructional space, administrative areas and student housing on the East Carolina University campus led to the search for outdoor recreation facility alternatives. To that end, ECU staff moved the recreation operations to a dedicated facility about 10 minutes from the main campus.

ECU's vision is manifest in the North Recreational Complex. The primary focus of this project is to provide outdoor sports and recreation facilities and programs to students and staff for intramurals and club sports. The selected site consists of approximately 130 acres of low-lying property previously used for agriculture. Environmental challenges included a shallow water table and floodplain issues.

Phase I featured the field house, infrastructure and playing fields, while Phase II included a six-acre lake for water sports and recreation (complete with floating fountains), and a boathouse with restrooms, concessions, storage space and a dining patio overlooking the beach. Sand volleyball, an adventure course and trails also are part of the complex. The NRC's eight irrigated and lighted fields can accommodate soccer, flag football, lacrosse, ultimate and rugby.

Future phases will include the addition of a softball complex and tennis facility. Ultimately, the NRC plans to expand beyond recreation and wellness to include facilities that reflect interdepartmental partnerships and potential public/private ventures.