The University of Wyoming (UW) has embarked on a series of ambitious capital projects over the past decade, culminating in nearly $900 million in investments, Cowboy State Daily reports.
The most recent endeavor is a $65.3 million aquatic facility, construction for which began in November 2023. This new facility, located near the university’s football practice facility, is expected to be completed by the fall of 2026 and will replace the aging pool at the John Corbett Building.
The new aquatic center will feature a 50-meter pool with 10 lanes, a separate dive well, and platforms for NCAA diving meets. The design allows for “long-course” events and offers a 20-lane configuration for shorter events. Vice President for Campus Operations Bill Mai emphasized the demand for such a facility, citing its high-altitude location at 7,220 feet as ideal for training and competitions.
Assistant Athletic Director Nick Seeman shared swim coach Dave Denniston’s enthusiasm, quoting him as calling the facility “far superior” to the pool at the US Olympic Training Center in Colorado Springs. Denniston highlighted its potential to elevate the university’s competitive standing nationally and internationally.
The aquatic facility is just one of 11 major projects undertaken at UW over the past 10 years. These projects span academic, recreational, and athletic needs and include:
- Residence Halls and Dining Facility: $295 million
- Science Initiative Building: $103 million
- Engineering Building: $105 million
- West Stands Renovation at War Memorial Stadium: $91 million
Funding for these projects has come from diverse sources, including the Wyoming General Fund ($417.9 million), university reserves ($78.6 million), private donations, and state maintenance funding.
While some hail the developments as forward-thinking, critics question the focus on non-academic facilities. State Representative Kenneth Chestek (D-Laramie), an emeritus law professor, acknowledged the necessity of some projects but expressed concern over the emphasis on athletics and recreation over academics.
State Senator Cheri Steinmetz (R-Torrington) voiced stronger opposition, citing overspending amid economic challenges faced by Wyoming residents. She emphasized the need for greater scrutiny in budgeting, particularly in light of budget cuts to UW’s College of Agriculture.
Despite the criticism, the university continues to see its projects as investments in Wyoming’s future. Mai noted that the aquatic facility will not only meet the university’s needs but also serve the broader community. Once the new center is operational, the pool in the Corbett Building will be converted into a multipurpose athletic space.
