Spartanburg’s Beloved Gym Closes After 47 Years
Hey there, good folks of Spartanburg! We’ve got some big news turning heads in our bustling little city. The Nautilus Fitness Center, a traditional spot on South Church Street, is closing. Yes, you’re hearing it right folks! The gym we’ve known and loved since the fall of 1987 is sadly shutting its doors on September 30th.
The End of an Era
The owner, John Lankford, has nodded in agreement to sell his long-running business to the city. It’s the end of an era for many in Spartanburg, like Kenny Harris, a loyal member of the gym since January 1978. Kenny, like many other Nautilus members, is feeling the pinch and wondering where to exercise after Nautilus says its final goodbye.
A Deal Like No Other
“It was like someone was holding a gun to your head,” said Lankford. Apparently, the city gave John a take-it-or-leave-it offer that left him frustrated and bitter. Although the deal has been brokered, Nautilus’ selling price remains a secret for now. The city, however, has grand plans for the area, intending to build a new joint city-county government complex on this site once the agreement is complete.
Uncertain Future for Gym Members
With 600-700 memberships, the question now is, “where will they all go?” Kenny Harris reacted, “I hate that it’s closing, but I understand things happen and move forward.” After its closure, faithfulness is set to dry up as the community scrambles to find a new venue to keep fit and socialize. With the gym’s equipment up for grabs, Nautilus has hit a definitive dead-end.
A Dark Cloud Over Nautilus
Lankford further says, “There is nobody happy about this.” His disappointment is apparent as he spoke about his 47 years of paying property taxes and contributing to the city’s growth. His sense of rebellion echoes in his words, leaving an indelible mark on those repeating the same sentiments.
A Hopeful Tomorrow?
The new joint city-county government complex is set to finish by summer 2027, funded by a 1 percent sales tax increase approved earlier. As we look in anticipation towards the future, an era has indeed come to an end. The closure of this local staple hits home for many, and it surely will not be forgotten. As we bid a heartfelt farewell to Nautilus Fitness Center, we hold our breath for what the future holds for our dear city of Spartanburg.
