Faculty and staff will have a variety of new ways to reach their health and exercise goals this year, thanks to the opening of the university's state-of-the-art $4 million Fitness Center.

The center, located adjacent to the Field House on Brockton Avenue, is set to operate on a limited schedule in September, with full hours beginning in October.

The center's hours have not yet been established but are expected to include early-morning, mid-day, afternoon, evening and weekend availability. There may be some times when the facility is reserved for classes, intercollegiate activities or other special programming.

Fees are being considered for faculty, staff and administrators interested in using the facility. Students with a valid university ID will have free access.

The Fitness Center spans 6,800 square feet and has more than 70 pieces of new equipment. A cardiovascular area has 24 machines, including stationary bikes, treadmills and stair steppers. A variety of strength training equipment also will be available, including 25 plate-loaded machines dedicated to upper body, lower body and trunk exercises. The free weight area includes more than 30 lifting stations. A music system pumps workout music throughout the facility and TVs are positioned in the cardiovascular area.

Physical Education and Athletics Director Jeff Martinez said the facility was designed to meet the diverse physical needs of users.

"There's a variety of equipment," he said. "People interested in doing cardiovascular workouts and maybe a little stretching and toning will have an area where they are comfortable doing that. They don't have to go near the power-lifting stuff, where they may feel less comfortable or even intimidated."

The project was funded through a general obligation bond issued in 1999. The Fitness Center will replace a 1,550-square-foot center in Currier Gymnasium. The weight room under Ted Runner Stadium will continue to be available to intercollegiate athletes during their practice sessions.