Pre-planning approved for Joe Frank Sanderson Center

According to Bob Johnston, Physical Plant's assistant director of facilities planning and construction, the process will begin when the university, in cooperation with the state Office of Building, Grounds, and Real Property Management, establishes a committee to describe the project and solicit proposals for the design and construction of the facility.

The board granted approval at its January meeting for planning to proceed.

The indoor recreation and fitness center will house basketball and racquetball courts, a jogging track, a weight room, aerobics and exercise rooms, lockers, a swimming pool, and other facilities for use by students, faculty, and staff. The facility will be located east of Humphrey Coliseum at the south end of Chadwick Lake.

The pre-planning phase will be accomplished through the Office of Building, Grounds, and Real Property Management at a cost of $90,000, with funds provided by the university.

A substantial portion of funding for the center's construction will be provided by a gift from Laurel businessman and 1947 accounting graduate Joe Frank Sanderson Sr. The university also is seeking other private contributions and state support to help complete financing for the project, which could cost up to $19 million.

Mississippi State has one of the largest intramural sports programs among Southeastern universities, with more than 3,000 students participating each year.