LEMONT FURNACE, Pa. -- Penn State is moving forward with plans to improve security at Recreation Building (Rec Hall) on the University Park campus.
A comprehensive security assessment of Rec Hall was completed recently and the University intends to secure 72 doors in the facility. Fencing also will be added at the rear of the building. Penn State’s Board of Trustees were informed Friday (July 12) that the estimated cost of the project is $1.2 million.
Phase one of the project includes the following improvements:
-- Access to the building will be reduced. Some doors will be converted to egress only and will no longer have exterior hardware. These doors will remain locked.
-- Door monitors will be installed that allow an alarm to sound when the door is opened.
-- Electronic card readers will be provided at some doors to provide and monitor access.
-- Rec Hall will be able to be locked and unlocked electronically.
-- Surveillance cameras will be installed at numerous locations inside and outside the building.
These measures are designed to provide the safest environment possible for students, athletics personnel and faculty/staff users of the building, while prohibiting unauthorized users from entering the facility. The new perimeter security installation is the latest step in a multi-phased project aimed at better controlling access to University buildings during off hours. University ID cardholders will be allowed to bring one accompanied guest with them to use recreational facilities during normal hours of operation when exercise areas are available for use. This work is similar to controls being installed currently at White Building, Intramural Building, and the McCoy Natatorium.
Rec Hall will be fully compliant with AD 73, the University's policy related to use of athletic and recreation facilities, when the next phase of security is implemented. That phase will consolidate non-event access to three main entry points. Access will only be gained through use of a Penn State ID+ card or through sign-in at a service desk.