The Park District of La Grange welcomed its first members Monday to its new fitness center at 536 East Ave.
Esmeralda Saenz of Countryside was one of the first to visit the $2.2 million center.
“I’m retired so I am looking for something to keep me active,” she said.
Kevin Kolb of La Grange was already working out.
“So far. So good,” he said. “It’s nice to have new equipment and brand new facility.”
He used to work out at a gym that was 15 minutes from his house. This one is only five minutes.
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“This is convenient,” he said. “There are not that many gyms in La Grange.”
Park district director Dean Bissias said the center is on track toward its goal of signing up 1,200 members.
“We’re happy we already have 200 or so,” he said.
He expects the membership to increase as more people seek to work out indoors.
“It’s not yet (indoor) fitness season yet,” he said.
The new 15,000-square-foot center was constructed in an area formerly was used for storage. Its amenities include cardio machines and weights, a yoga room with a heated floor and a spin room. Group exercise classes also are offered.
The district received a $987,000 state grant to pay for part of the cost of the center.
A grand opening is scheduled for 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Oct. 14.
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