WCC Fitness Center reopening; cost of closure tops $1M

The main workout area with cardio equipment and strength training equipment. Voice File Photo

By Kristy King
Staff Writer

The Washtenaw Community College Health and Fitness Center will reopen on Monday, Sept. 21, after a six-month closure due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Michigan gyms were given the go ahead to reopen on Wednesday, Sept. 9.

According to the college’s Financial Services Department, a closed facility costs a great deal of money— over $1 million was lost during the course of the closure. Information from WCC’s Financial Services Department was provided to the Voice by Rich Rezler, director of communications for the college.

The gym, which averages 1,300 to 1,800 visits per week, typically pays for itself. Instead, it’s been losing between $200,000 to $250,000 each month since its doors shut in March. This figure comes after the money saved from lower utility and maintenance costs.

The federal CARES Act may help the fitness center make up for some of its lost revenue, according to the Financial Services Department. CARES is the program enacted by Congress in the spring to soften the blow of economic fallout from the pandemic.

WCC may receive up to $4.8 million in total through CARES. At least 50% of the money will go directly to students as emergency financial aid.

According to Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s executive order, gyms will need to adhere to strict safety guidelines upon reopening. Gym capacity will be limited to 25%, and patrons will be required to wear a mask at all times with the exception of swimmers. Patrons of the gym must adhere to social distancing.

Power Wellness, which manages the WCC Fitness Center, was unavailable for comment. Updates can be found via wccfitness.org.