CLARION, Pa. – Over the last 45 years, Tippin Gym has hosted many collegiate and high school sporting events, even some rock concerts.
(Photos by Dave Cyphert of ProPoint Media Photography.)
The renovation and expansion of Tippin Gymnasium on Clarion University’s campus is now in the final design phase. The $42.7 million project is a total renovation with a new entrance/lobby to the facility, complete overhaul of the basketball courts and seating, natatorium overhaul with a new combination swimming/diving pool, expanded areas for wrestling, new weight room, new locker rooms and a new auxiliary gymnasium.
The facility will also get new restrooms, HVAC system replacement and new LED lighting fixtures throughout.
In addition, the project is designed to achieve the LEED Silver level of sustainability under the US Green Building Council’s (USGBC) LEED 2009 for New Construction and Major Renovations.
In addition to the areas for basketball, swimming, diving, wrestling, and weightlifting, there will be areas designed for dance and yoga, plus state-of-the-art classrooms and athletic training center. The renovation, slated for 17 months, is approaching completion.
At the groundbreaking ceremony from May 4, 2018, Dr. Wendy Snodgrass, director of intercollegiate athletics said, “I am so excited for the changes coming to Clarion athletics, as this project is a commitment to our program, our institution, and our community. We are going to be here for another 150 years, and our athletics programs are going to thrive as a result of this investment.”
The project is being funded, designed, and constructed by the Department of General Services of the Commonwealth.
“The new Tippin Gym will be a tourist attraction for Clarion County and our region with the return of Clarion University college sporting events, as well as, regional playoffs and championships. If high school district and regional playoffs return to Tippin, it will be like a shot on the arm to the local economy.” John Straitiff-Executive Director Pennsylvania Great Outdoors Visitors Bureau.
Learn more about the Clarion River and find other interesting places to visit in the Pennsylvania Great Outdoors region by going to VisitPAGO.com or calling 814-849-5197.
