The facility will be in McPhee Physical Education Center Gym 201A. Students, faculty and staff are encouraged to use the facility. Community groups also are welcome to reserve times for the wall. Tom Patt, director of University Recreation, said he hopes student organizations, residence hall wings, and academic departments will book time to build team work, commitment and perseverance among group members. Patt said University Recreation always is looking to expand its adventure-based facilities. The indoor climbing wall will compliment and expand current programs such as the Eagle's View Challenge Ropes Course.
Risk management is top priority in maintaining safety and security among climbers.
All inexperienced climbers will go through an orientation class that will advise them on care and use of equipment, belay techniques, command use, knot craft and rules of the facility. Experienced climbers will attend a skills check session to prove their knowledge in these areas. A select group of experienced students, faculty and staff will be selected to serve as supervisors and facilitators. Al Wiberg, student services program manager, will train the wall supervisors. Construction of the wall should be completed by Oct. 28.