Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony set May 13 for Jets Air Station
May 6, 2024
Jets Air Station makes space for a brighter, fitter future for college & community
More space for college athletics, student and community workouts and public events – all are in store with Jackson College’s new Jets Air Station.
Jackson College will celebrate the new facility at a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Monday, May 13 at 5 p.m. There will be a short program, tours and light refreshments.
“With the number of Jackson College sports teams, long practice seasons and additional partner needs and requirements, and our continuing education programming, the Fieldhouse was being overtaxed,” said Jackson College President Daniel J. Phelan. “Having an additional facility to schedule activities at the same time will be incredibly advantageous to our students, employees and the broader community.”
About the Jets Air Station
Jets Air Station is an inflatable air dome that measures 120 by 330 feet. It is made of vinyl opaque polyester fabric with a topcoat finish on the exterior and a high gloss vinyl polyester finish liner fabric inside. The facility features a 2M BTU heat/primary inflation unit to keep the interior warm and comfortable.
Inside, the Air Station features a rubberized floor with four basketball courts, four volleyball courts, six pickleball courts, and two tennis courts. A marked walking track surrounds the perimeter of the athletic courts. To meet visitors’ needs, there are restrooms, a greeters’ station, bag/shoe storage, a lounge/seating area and vending machines.
“At many colleges, universities and health-based organizations across the country, you will see this kind of structure – so, without specifically advertising it, the structure communicates ‘athletics here’ – in many cases, they are referred to as ‘sports domes’ or sports bubbles’,” Phelan said. The building’s design brings its own benefits, with minimal materials and reduced construction complexity. “This type of structure provides an expansive, unobstructed area – meaning that the absence of supporting pillars facilitates an ideal setting for sporting activities and sizable gatherings.
“Finally, cost considerations were also important, so we looked at many design options. Ultimately to get 40,000 square feet under one roof, our installation costs were considerably less than a rigid building,” Phelan added.
In addition to more student access, the College will also offer more opportunities for the community and employees, such as pickleball, a fast-growing sport. It will also enhance the College’s reputation and recruitment capabilities.
Community members are invited and welcome to the Jets Air Station ribbon-cutting ceremony.