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Gym rates going up;
guest access expanded
Faculty and staff hoping to shed a few extra pounds in Carmichael Gymnasium this year will first have to shed a few extra dollars from their paychecks.
Effective Sept. 1, the faculty/staff rates for gym membership will increase to $10 per month for access only and $15 per month for full service, which includes locker, lock, clothing check-out, equipment check-out and court reservation privileges. The previous rates were $5 and $10 per month, respectively.
At the same time,
gym operators also announced news likely to please members by expanding
access to the facility for friends, colleagues and visitors through
guest passes. The passes will cost $5 per person, and can be purchased in advance
in Room 2012 of Carmichael Gymnasium, or the day of the visit during normal business
hours. For rules and restrictions on guest passes, visit www.ncsu.edu/carmichael/
guest_pass.htm,
or call 513-3684.
Dawn Sanner, director of Carmichael Gymnasium, said a number of factors influenced the decision to increase membership rates.
“The rates for faculty/staff have been adjusted to be in line with recent student fee increases, as well as the recent approval of the debt service fee for the Carmichael Gymnasium Expansion Project slated to break ground in September 2005,” Sanner said. “This facility will provide increased opportunities for weight training, cardiovascular training, outdoor recreation and group fitness, and is in the advanced design process.”
Sanner also points out that the operation works entirely on a fee-supported basis, and that while the costs of running the gym – chemicals to treat the pool water, updated equipment for the facility, maintenance for a building nearing 40 years old, etc. – continue to rise, revenue for the department hasn’t. This year’s increase is the first in at least four years, she said.
Members during the 2003-04 year were notified of the rate change by e-mail several weeks ago, and Sanner says the response to the news has been mixed.
“ There are a few people who are very upset because it’s such a large percentage increase,” she said. “However, there are others who understand and are supportive of the move.”
Even with the increase, Sanner says the gym remains a superb value.
“ Where else can you get clothing provided, basketball equipment and goals, training equipment, and access to Campus Recreation programming for 15 dollars a month?” she asks. “There are private clubs that may have lower promotional monthly rates, but you will probably be asked to enter into an extended contract. Faculty and staff on payroll deduction have the luxury of joining the gym but cancelling at any time.”
Most employees will notice the rate change in their direct deposit or paycheck on Aug. 31.
Posted August 24, 2004
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