Bucks Co. Gym Reopens Despite Governor's Orders

WRIGHTSTOWN TOWNSHIP, PA — A Bucks County gym has reopened, defying the governor's stay-at-home and business closure orders put in place during the coronavirus pandemic.

Transcend Fitness Club, located in Wrightstown Township in the Carousel Village shopping area, made the "exceedingly difficult decision" to reopen Saturday despite the governor's orders.

"We have weighed all options, considered all ramifications, and ultimately have concluded reopening at this time to be the best option," the business shared in an announcement.

The gym, which opened 10 years ago and is owned by Tommy and Jessica Coates, features CrossFit, cardio, and more. It currently employs 20 people "who have families of their own to financially support," the business said.

The business had been closed since mid-March due to the non-essential business closures. All but 18 Pennsylvania counties will be in the "yellow" phase of mitigation by Friday. But the "yellow" phase still does not permit gyms to open. Under the governor's plan, counties must reach "green" before gyms can reopen.

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The owners, who have three children, said the continued closure puts their own family in financial jeopardy. "As parents, we simply cannot sit and wait, and I know you all would do the same for your children."

Several safety guidelines will be in place, the owners said, including mandatory mask wearing and six-feet social distancing. The club will have a capacity limit of 20 people inside at once.

Hours will be reduced to 7 a.m. to 4 p. m. daily. The facility's CrossFit gym will remain closed and there will be no classes in the club; online classes will continue. Lockers will not be available.

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You can see the gym's full announcement here: