Joshua W. Soto Physical Fitness Facility

Creating a design standard for base facilities

USACE Fort Worth District, via Alutiiq LLC

Fort Bliss, TX

90,094 sf

This physical fitness facility was on an urgent schedule and tight budget, as it needed to be completed on a fast track to accommodate the influx of people from newly occupied barracks. This facility also set the exterior design standards for the future buildings being designed for this area. Exterior finishes included a Direct Applied Finish System (DAFS) over a concrete panel superstructure. Blast-resistant storefront assemblies and/or translucent panel clerestory windows helped to modulate the façade and bring natural light into the facility spaces.

This building features a spacious two-story lobby, reception, waiting and concession area with adjacent free weight and cardio area. The gymnasium seats 600 spectators around two full-size (NCAA) basketball and volleyball courts, along with a mezzanine that includes a jogging track, circuit/select training and cardio exercise equipment. The second level has large and small group exercise rooms, administrative offices and a spin room. Each locker room includes a sauna, showers, drying and grooming spaces, as well as lockers/dressing areas. The design accommodates future expansion of the gym and racquetball courts.