A Transformational Investment in Student Well-Being
The Stoddard Fitness & Well-Being Center will anchor a new era for Bates—bringing together fitness, performance, and holistic wellness in a 60,000-square-foot campus hub. Read the official announcement
here!
Project Overview
Bates College is undertaking a transformative investment in student well-being with the creation of the Stoddard Fitness & Well-Being Center and a series of athletics facility enhancements across campus.
Located at the heart of Bates, the project integrates Alumni Gymnasium and the Gray Athletic Building into a modern, unified space designed to provide the full campus community opportunities for recreation, fitness, well-being, and athletic performance.
With more than 80% of Bates students actively engaged in fitness and recreation, the center expands access, alleviates capacity constraints, and creates a welcoming environment where every student can thrive.
This project reflects Bates’ commitment to supporting the whole student—physically, mentally, and socially.
By the Numbers
- 43,000 sq. ft. new construction + 17,000 sq. ft. renovated space
- 7,000 sq. ft. fitness center + 1000 sq. ft. studio
- 80% of students engaged in fitness
- 11 team locker rooms
- 4 spaces for meetings, film review, and events
- 900 sq. ft. Sports Medicine Facility
Explore the Facility
Project Timeline
Spring 2026
Facility transitions and temporary relocation begin.
Starting March 30, 2026, Alumni Gym and Gray Cage will be closed as construction begins. Bates Athletics administrative and coach offices will now be temporarily located at 100 Campus Avenue.
May 1, 2026
Groundbreaking ceremony
2026–2027
Construction
Fall 2027
Anticipated opening
Facility Adjustments During Construction
During construction, Bates will maintain access to competition, training, and recreational opportunities through temporary facility adjustments.
- Alumni Gym and Gray Cage close (Spring 2026).
- Underhill Arena converted for basketball, volleyball, and recreation.
- Fitness and recreation shift to Merrill Gym and Underhill Arena.
- Team locker rooms relocate to temporary spaces.
Find information about facility hours of operation, schedules, and recreation opportunities on our Recreation homepage.
Renderings & Plans
Browse renderings and site plans to get a closer look at the spaces taking shape at the heart of Bates.
Exterior Renderings
Interior Renderings
Site Plan
Follow the Progress
This page will serve as the central hub for project updates, including construction progress, behind-the-scenes content, and milestones along the way.
Questions?
Contact us at
athletics@bates.edu!
