Gyms across Indiana started reopening Friday as part of Gov. Eric Holcomb's five-stage “Back On Track” plan. However, for one fitness center, the pandemic was too much and the doors will remain shut permanently.
The YMCA of Greater Michiana announced it will not reopen its South Bend-Mishawaka branch after operating for more than 50 years in its current location.
Marketing director Kayla Foster says COVID-19 was the tipping point for closing the fitness facility.
“That building is older and in constant need of updates,” says Foster. “And so moving forward with the financial impact the association has undergone from COVID-19, it was really our only option at this point.”
While the brick-and-mortar location will be closed, board member Regan Jones says the closure will allow the organization to focus on programs that foster youth development and social responsibility.
“As we think about this facility now being closed, you know, it gives us more bandwidth and space and we’re no longer tethered to that. It actually frees us to focus more on community needs,” says Jones. “You know, deploying teams outside the four walls to meet the needs of the community.”
Those with memberships will be able to use other branch locations through August with no additional fees.