$30 Million RecPlex Renovation to Debut in Fall at University of Dayton

New integrated wellness facility to add student health, counseling, and expanded fitness spaces

Published on Mar. 1, 2026

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The University of Dayton is set to debut a $30 million renovation and expansion of its RecPlex facility in fall 2026. The 125,470-square-foot project will add 34,200 square feet, including a new student health center, counseling center, expanded weight room and studio space, and a tranquility garden. Starting in fall 2026, students will pay a $300-per-semester fee to access the upgraded RecPlex and its services.

Why it matters

The RecPlex renovation is part of UD's push to modernize its campus facilities and meet growing student demand for integrated wellness services. The project positions UD among the top universities in Ohio for comprehensive health and fitness offerings, following a trend seen at regional peers like Miami University and Xavier.

The details

The $30 million renovation will add a 15,400-square-foot student health center and a 13,200-square-foot counseling center, creating new exam rooms, procedure rooms, therapy spaces, and jobs for medical staff. The weight room and studio space will expand by 5,300 square feet, and a new tranquility garden will open for student relaxation. Contractors are aiming to minimize disruptions during the spring 2026 interior renovations.

  • Construction began in early 2025.
  • The exterior of the facility is complete, and interior renovations are set to begin in late spring 2026.
  • The $30 million RecPlex renovation is scheduled to debut in fall 2026.

The players

University of Dayton

A private Catholic university located in Dayton, Ohio.

Melissa Longino

Assistant vice president of health and well-being, executive director of Campus Recreation, and project lead for the RecPlex renovation.

Danis

The local builder of the UD Arena and Immaculate Conception Chapel, responsible for constructing the RecPlex renovation.

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What they’re saying

“They've just been amazing...We're trying to tie the interior renovations as close as we can to the end of the academic school year to not impact our usership.”

— Melissa Longino, Assistant vice president of health and well-being, executive director of Campus Recreation, and project lead (Flyer News: Univ. of Dayton's Student Newspaper)

“The extra space and equipment will be a game changer for waiting times.”

— Michael Kolska, Senior, weightlifter (Flyer News: Univ. of Dayton's Student Newspaper)

“The only reason I don't go to the Rec is that half my time is wasted waiting for a machine.”

— Ben Holdcraft, Senior (Flyer News: Univ. of Dayton's Student Newspaper)

“The tranquility garden is perfect for finals week.”

— Drew Adler, Senior (Flyer News: Univ. of Dayton's Student Newspaper)

What’s next

Contractors are aiming for minimal spring 2026 renovation disruptions, with weight room demolition potentially crowding space, but all hours and equipment remaining available as UD prepares the upgraded RecPlex for fall 2026.

The takeaway

The RecPlex renovation is a significant investment by the University of Dayton to modernize its campus facilities and provide students with comprehensive, integrated wellness services. By adding new health, counseling, and expanded fitness spaces, UD is positioning itself as a leader among regional universities in supporting student well-being.