Johnson Center
Expansion &
Renovation
At the heart of the University of Kentucky’s South Campus transformation, the renovated Johnson Center is designed to create a more connected, engaging and wellness-focused recreation experience for students. Anchoring the project is a dynamic new main entry positioned along the campus’s new north-south pedestrian walkway, establishing a strong front door for the facility and a welcoming destination for campus life.
Inside, users are immediately introduced to two levels of weight and fitness spaces, dynamic new climbing and bouldering walls, and a range of program areas new to the Johnson Center. The first level includes dedicated space for cold plunge therapy, individual locker rooms, an outdoor sunken courtyard and the University’s Outdoor Pursuits program. On the second level, users will find additional cardio space overlooking the climbing wall, a dedicated mind-body studio, open flexible stretching areas and a consolidated administration suite.
South of the existing gymnasium and fitness spaces, the project adds a new multipurpose activity court (MAC), expanded strength training space and a new outdoor functional fitness patio.
The project is designed in collaboration with RossTarrant Architects as part of the University of Kentucky’s broader $115 million public-private partnership to transform South Campus through the expansion of the Sports Center Garage and renovation of the Johnson Center recreation facility. A feasibility study engaged students in exercises to identify preferred space types and qualities, helping inform discussions with University administration and shape the final design.
In addition to expanded fitness and weightlifting areas, new activity courts, outdoor recreation spaces and a 60-foot climbing wall, the project includes upgraded building systems and additional gathering amenities. The development also adds 1,200 parking spaces to address growing campus demand and offset future parking losses tied to the Chandler Hospital expansion.