Healthy bodies to match healthy intellects is one goal of the new fitness center planned to open in August of next year. University officials recently broke ground for the new facility to the cheers of faculty, staff and students who attended the ceremony in front of Purdy Kresge Library.

Robert Carter, interim vice president for student development and campus life, told the crowd he'd keep the event moving along so the construction company could maintain its work schedule and the center would be open in 14 months.

After suggesting everyone take off their jackets and do 20 pushups, President Irvin D. Reid said that when he first came to Wayne State he thought a fitness center would be a wonderful place for those on campus to come together. The undergraduate library, Student Center and other parts of campus serve as gathering places but the president believed that something in the heart of campus could create a real sense of community for staff and students.

"This center will nurture this community throughout the year," he said. "There will be a lot of glass in the facility so you can look out and beckon people to come in."

In addition to a lot of glass, the 75,000-square-foot center will feature a two-court gymnasium; suspended walking/jogging track; aerobic studio; seminar room; multipurpose room; rock-climbing wall; and a leisure pool. Wellness seminars such as smoking cessation and stress management also are planned.

"This will provide opportunities for everyone who wants physical fitness," Reid said. "It will be a central piece of this campus community. I want this open in August 2000 so students who come to campus will see you working out, studying in the library and eating in the Student Center. This will be an integrated community."

Edgar Scribner, vice chairman of the Board of Governors, said the fitness center and law school addition are pieces of the puzzle that are coming together to make the campus great.