Explains why installing a well-designed indoor climbing wall can draw new users to an athletic facility. Climbing-wall design elements and gear are discussed and a checklist for working with contractors is provided.(GR)

Discusses how proper irrigation and drainage design can enhance athletic-field maintenance operations. Explores the factors influencing irrigation and drainage-design decisions and offers design tips for various athletic fields that respond to efficient water management and cost control. (GR)

Explains how proper athletic facility locker-room design can save time and money. Design factors that address who will be using the facility are discussed as are user requirements, such as preparation areas, total storage area per user, grooming area, and security areas. Final comments address maintenance and operations issues. (GR)

Examines the planning issues when replacing telescoping bleacher units and for analyzing seating options. Adresses the importance of complying with local building codes and the considerations on maintenance following installation. (GR)

Discusses the importance of the Architectural and Transportation Barriers Compliance Board guidelines for recreational and sports areas and their ancillary spaces. Examples of how the guidelines affect specific areas are highlighted, such as team seating areas, fitness centers, tennis courts, swimming pools, and locker rooms. (GR)

Examines the use of lighting, both artificial and natural, that can enhance the aesthetic quality and functionality of areas with indoor swimming pools. Discusses glare and shadow-reduction measures that aid competitive events, including lighting above and below water levels, and highlights lighting issues during televised events. Descriptions of…

Discusses improving old gyms to enhance the experience of players and spectators while still respecting the gym's historical significance. Planning and design development phases are examined covering such areas as creating multipurpose courts, building stages, and considerations concerning lighting, acoustics, interior finishes, equipment,…

Explains how daily maintenance and design planning can reduce the potential safety hazards found in athletic-facility locker rooms. Topics include designing locker rooms for visual openness and traffic control, providing non-slip surfaces and proper drainage, installing ventilation systems that can handle the moisture produced in locker rooms,…

Discusses locker-room design standards and common challenges when complying with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Accessibility and safety considerations for shower, toilet, and locker areas are addressed, as are entrance vestibules, drying and grooming areas, and private dressing rooms. (GR)

Provides advice on designing sports-field lighting that can help balance design with cost and lighting-system performance. Areas addressed include system installation, pole placement, light-spillage control, and maintenance. (GR)

Describes Minnesota's landmark Bleacher Safety Act, enacted after a 6-year-old fell to his death from bleachers, and the efforts and recommendations of other states and organizations regarding bleacher safety. (EV)

Discusses how accident prevention can be built into the swimming-pool design phase by paying attention to swimming-pool regulations, materials for basin and deck construction, pool-fixture placement, and signs and markings. A pool planning checklist is provided. (GR)

Explores locker-room design concepts that can be used to accommodate multipurpose athletic facilities and make the locker room more efficient and user friendly. Spaces are described that can be added to the typical locker room that will complement expanding facility functions. (GR)