James Madison University - Athletic Performance Center

Heery International and local Virginia architect VMDO teamed to design the new athletic performance center for James Madison University (JMU) in Harrisonburg, Virginia. The facility is located at the south end zone of Bridgeforth Stadium.  In an effort to raise the “Dukes” to Division 1-A in the NCAA, the facility provides a new home team locker room, training and taping areas, equipment storage, team meeting rooms and a weight/strength training room.  Additionally, a player’s lounge and coaches’ offices on the upper floor were planned with portions of these areas serving a dual purpose by providing game-day VIP suites. A main entry two-story lobby also serves as a Hall of Fame.

Academics are extremely important to James Madison University.  Capping off the design, the facility also houses over 5,000 SF of tutor areas, computer study rooms and other classroom type functions for all athletes.

Heery, VMDO and local engineering firm PHR&A Associates previously conducted a feasibility study to determine whether to renovate and expand the existing 12,500-seat stadium or develop a new 20,000-seat stadium elsewhere on campus.  JMU decided to renovate and expand Bridgeforth Stadium, and the design team then provided master planning services. The new athletic performance center is the first phase of this long-range plan.