This year, a $15 million renovation is set to begin in the gym wing, updating athletic facilities to create a more modern and functional space for students and staff.
According to student-athletes like freshman Graham Nieuwsma, the renovations are long overdue. Nieuwsma specifically cited noise as a major concern.
“My biggest complaint is the noise,” said Nieuwsma. “It’s hard to hear anything that is not within 15 feet of you.”
Some students have also raised concerns about the humidity, noting that certain areas of the gym wing often feel too dry.
“The field house is really dry,” said an anonymous freshman student-athlete. “That’s the biggest complaint about the field house: the air.”
The first phase of the gym wing improvements–including the installation of air conditioning–will begin this summer.
“This phase will include the fieldhouse, gyms G220 and G230, the wrestling room, the West locker room and the athletic training facilities,” said Director of Operations and Sustainability John Crawford.
Students will start experiencing the benefits of the new system as early as next year.
“Students and staff can expect improved ventilation by the start of the school year in August, meaning better airflow and air quality in these spaces,” said Crawford. “Full air conditioning is expected to be running by Spring 2027.”
Measures are also being taken to minimize disruption to students and staff during the renovation.
“Once the school year begins in the fall, the majority of construction will shift outdoors,” said Crawford. “This approach is designed to keep gym spaces accessible and ensure that students can continue using the athletic wing with minimal interruption.”
These renovations are meant to offer more comfort and address many of the existing problems in the gym wing.
“This project is about creating a healthier and more comfortable environment for everyone,” said Crawford.
While students agree that ETHS would benefit from the renovations, some also questioned the high cost, believing the funds could be better used elsewhere.
The new heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system is designed to make the gym wing more comfortable, support students’ health and enhance their athletic experiences.
