Officials from the Union County Improvement Authority (UCIA) and the Union College of Union County (UCNJ) held a groundbreaking ceremony today for the college’s new Physical Education Center (PECK) building. The $30 million project will transform the 42,000-square-foot facility on the UCNJ Cranford campus into a high-tech, state-of-the-art center for athletics, academics, and community engagement.
The modernization is a joint investment aimed at providing students and the community with cutting-edge resources.
“This state-of-the-art facility will transform the heart of campus athletics and community engagement at UCNJ,” Bibi Taylor, director, UCIA, said. “Once complete, the new PECK will serve as the athletic hub and student resource center – advancing both athletics and academic excellence while creating new opportunities to bring our community together.”
The modernized PECK building is specifically designed to elevate UCNJ’s National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) and Garden State Athletic Conference (GSAC) programs. Key upgrades will ensure student-athletes have the necessary environment to excel.
Facility enhancements will include:
- A new wrestling room.
- A weight training center.
- An NJCAA-regulation basketball court.
- A modernized physical training room.
- Improved seating and expanded athletic areas that prioritize safety.
- A multi-purpose room and new academic classrooms.
The project also includes expanded sports-related academic offerings that link athletics with classroom learning, such as sports management and community program partnerships.
Margaret McMenamin, president, UCNJ, emphasized the project’s dual focus. “Revitalizing the PECK is about more than athletics; it’s about creating an environment that promotes learning, leadership, and excellence. This modernization reflects our ongoing commitment to providing UCNJ students with the resources, opportunities, and inspiration to reach their goals, both on the field and in the classroom,” she said.
Beyond serving students and athletes, the renovated PECK facility will increase UCNJ’s capacity to host major events, including spring and winter commencement ceremonies, strengthening its connection with the broader community.
Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes Leon highlighted the local impact. “Through this partnership between the County and Union College, we’re continuing to invest in the future of our residents — creating spaces where students can learn, connect, and take pride in their achievements,” she said.
The construction work is being performed by a local company, M&M Construction Company, Inc., based in Cranford.
