This fall, the new Robert B. Tallman Rowing Center, which includes the Ward Romer Boathouse and surroundings, opened for use—and the men’s and women’s crews couldn’t be more thrilled. The new building, nearly twice the size of the old Haskell Davidson Boathouse (built in 1974 and razed last year) marks a dramatic step forward for IC’s crew program. 

The rowing center was supported by over $1 million in gifts from crew alumni and other friends of the program following a successful fundraising campaign. The facility was officially dedicated on November 3 when alumni and friends joined coaches Becky ’88 and Dan Robinson ’79, team members, and many others from the IC community to celebrate this major milestone in the college's athletic program. 

The Robinsons were heavily involved during all phases of the project and provided HOLT Architects with a “wish list” of needs, including increased storage for shells and equipment; a fitness area for all-season training; separate men’s and women’s showers and changing room space; a stone patio offering on-the-shore views of races; and increased parking and space for crew functions. 

In December, the rowing center received the Pride of Ownership Award from the city of Ithaca and the Ithaca Rotary Club. The building was one of six properties recognized for improving the appearance of their neighborhoods.