Fitness center annex scheduled to open Published Oct. 11, 2011 20th Fighter Wing Public Affairs SHAW AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. -- The grand opening ceremony of a new $7.6 million fitness center annex is scheduled Oct. 14 at 10 a.m. here. The 20th Fighter Wing and Third Army leadership are scheduled to cut the ribbon to officially open the new annex. The approximately 23,000 sq. ft. brand new facility will have an exercise room, cardio room, free weight and strength equipment room, a men's locker room and women's locker room. There will also be new state of the art fitness equipment, including treadmills, ellipticals and free weights, said Charlie Glover, 20th Support Squadron fitness and sports director. "The annex is being added to benefit the personnel across the base," Glover said. "It gives a centralized location for them to get a quick workout in. Approximately 2,000 people work on the east side of the base, Air Force and Army members. It's gives them an opportunity to utilize this great new location to work out in a convenient location." Our service member's job is to be fit-to-fight, Glover added. When time is precious, the added convenience of a closer workout location ensures that our military members make it to the gym. This new location gives them the option and ease to continue to stay fit-to-fight. Like the fitness center addition that opened in September, there are also energy savers. The new building was designed and constructed to meet Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Silver certification criteria. There are sensors that monitor light levels from day lighting which improves the energy efficiency, according to officials. The toilets and sinks have automatic sensors for water efficiency, and there are also solar share on all windows to limit the amount of radiant heat from the sun. Additionally, a new 1.5 mile running path was paved and made available to personnel recently near the new fitness center annex. After the ceremony, those attending will have the opportunity to tour the new facility.