WAYNE, Neb. -- After announcing plans to construct a new athletic and recreation center in June 2022, students, coaches, and administrators gathered for the groundbreaking of the new project at Wayne State College.

According to WSC President Dr. Marysz Rames, the goal of the project is to give more space for the students on campus.

“How do we create the right kind of space that serves all those student needs?" Rames said. "We really knew we were too crowded in our existing facilities and we needed to expand that.”

The $30 million project will add an air supported structure which contains an indoor track, a turf field, and other areas to support the athletic teams.

Athletics Director Mike Powicki said the recreation center will also be getting updates.

“We’re accomplishing that with this project,” Powicki said. “In the rec center, the rec center is getting a complete face lift. A whole new flooring system. We’re going to go from three courts to four courts. So basketball, volleyball, pickle ball, what have you.”

With the indoor track also being replaced, Rames said students have needed the extra space.

“It’s really going to fit all of those needs and the students have been very excited about this project," Rames said. "We’ve had nothing but positive response from them because they really feel the crowdedness in the facility.”

With the recent completion of the Peterson Fine Arts Center and a groundbreaking for a new residence hall in October, Rames said the growth of the student body has led to these projects.

“We really just feel like that servicing our students that are coming to Wayne State and creating the right kind of living, learning environment for them to be successful," Rames said.

The project is planned to have a 19-month window for completion and Rames said after this project, the Brandenburg building will be the priority for renovation.