BURLINGTON, Vt. (AP) — The University of Vermont is going to resume construction on an expansion to the recreation and wellness facilities at the Gutterson Fieldhouse, the school's trustees decided.

The COVID-19 pandemic prompted the school to delay the construction, which is part of a broader project to expand the school's athletic facilities. The trustees decided earlier this year to resume construction on this phase of a multi-purpose center project that will include construction of a new basketball facility.

On Monday, the trustees approved the expansion to an existing group fitness space and the creation of an 11,000-square-foot recreation and wellness facility for the student body.

There will be also new women’s and men’s hockey locker rooms and other facilities.

As a result of COVID-19 impacts on the construction market, the board increased the expenditure limit for project from $22.5 million to $24.7 million.

All construction will take place within the existing facility, except for the construction of the first floor of a structure that ultimately will join the Gutterson Field House with the new Tarrant Center, the future home of men’s and women’s basketball programs and serve as a campus event center.

The board will consider resumption of the Tarrant Center phase at a future date.