E. L. Wiegand Fitness Center - University of Nevada, Reno
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This project is part of a legacy of construction excellence built at a respected Nevada contractor, now carried forward by the Plenium Builders team.
Advancing the University’s Vision
Transforming a vision for student wellness into a high-performing campus facility demanded more than technical execution. It required adaptive thinking, real-time problem-solving, and steady collaboration from the earliest planning stages.
Expanding the Scope Through Preconstruction
Originally envisioned as a large-scale recreation facility, the project evolved during preconstruction as additional needs came into focus. Underground parking, a chilled water system tie-in, street and utility upgrades, and broader campus infrastructure improvements were added to the scope. Each element was evaluated through a transparent estimating process, supported by milestone-based cost updates. More than $2 million in accepted value engineering options kept the project aligned with budget while expanding its reach.
Coordinating a Complex Building
Building information modeling played a central role in coordinating the work. A four-month clash detection effort aligned all subcontractors within a single, coordinated 3D model. This process enabled off-site prefabrication and pre-labeled materials, reducing field rework and generating an estimated $1.5 million in savings. Labor was deployed more efficiently, and coordination issues were significantly reduced.
Responding to Subsurface Conditions
Challenges below grade required immediate and informed response. Groundwater was encountered six to seven feet below grade, exceeding initial expectations. Dewatering wells were installed, and soil was treated and reused on site, avoiding delays and the cost of importing engineered fill. Solutions were developed quickly and implemented without shifting the overall construction schedule.
Supporting Campus Wellness
The four-story fitness center supports the University’s broader goals for student life and engagement. Inside, students, faculty, and alumni can run laps on an elevated three-lane track, climb the stadium stair, or participate in group fitness within purpose-built studios. Thousands of pounds of free weights, advanced cardio equipment, and immersive digital fitness features anchor the space.
Built for Long-Term Use
As enrollment continues to grow, the facility is designed to flex and serve a range of activities, from daily workouts to wellness programming, informal gatherings, and campus events. Delivered through the CM-at-Risk model, the project reflects the value of early collaboration and proactive construction leadership within an active campus environment.
