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BIDDEFORD, Maine

UNE begins installation of new dock for student recreation

On August 19, 2015, the first portion of the University of New England’s new, removable Saco River dock was delivered, as the University moves forward with opening its waterfront for students’ recreational use.

The other segments of the dock will arrive within the next few days, and the project is scheduled to be completed within a week.

The dock, funded by Undergraduate Student Government (USG) in partnership with the student-led Recreation Council, will be used by a number of student groups. The University’s Rowing and Sailing Clubs look forward to greater access to the water and an expanded schedule of events this fall. Both groups will be able to hold daily practices seven days a week into November and starting again in late March.  The clubs will also, for the first time, be able to host rowing and sailing competitions with the dock in place.

In addition, the dock will enhance the activities of UNE’s Scuba Club, which will use it for training and as a launch point for boat trips to dive sites.

“The Saco River waterfront is one of UNE's largest assets,” said Brian Wallace, assistant director of Student Involvement for Recreation and Wellness. “The recreation dock represents an opportunity for every UNE student to access the water on a daily basis. Rowing and Sailing Club members are excited for the improved access and growth that this project will facilitate.”

Cynthia Forrest, Ed.D., vice president for Student Affairs, echoed Wallace’s sentiment. “USG and Student Affairs are excited to move this strategic initiative forward by providing the dock, so students have greater recreational opportunities to enjoy our beautiful coast,” she said.

 

 

About the University of New England

The University of New England is Maine’s largest independent university, with two beautiful coastal campuses in Maine, a one-of-a-kind study abroad campus in Tangier, Morocco, and an array of flexible, accredited online degrees. In an uncommonly welcoming and supportive community, we offer hands-on learning, empowering students to make a positive impact in a world full of challenges. The state’s top provider of health professionals, we are home to Maine’s only medical college, Maine’s only dental college, a variety of other interprofessionally aligned health care degree programs, as well as nationally recognized programs for marine science degrees, natural and social sciences degrees, arts and humanities degrees, and business degrees.