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Planet Fitness coming soon to this popular Staten Island shopping plaza

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  Published in Health and Fitness on Tuesday, October 28th 2025 at 7:25 GMT by Staten Island Advance
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Planet Fitness Set to Open Its Latest Club at Staten Island’s Popular Shopping Plaza

A new Planet Fitness facility is on the brink of opening at one of Staten Island’s most frequented retail destinations, promising to bring the gym’s “No‑Judgment” atmosphere and affordable membership rates to a wider local audience. The announcement, unveiled on October 12 2025, comes after months of planning and a partnership between Planet Fitness’s corporate office and the management team of the Staten Island Shopping Plaza (SISP). The club is slated to welcome its first members in early November, with a soft‑opening event scheduled for the weekend of November 4‑5.

The Venue: Staten Island Shopping Plaza

The Staten Island Shopping Plaza, located at 2450 Bayview Avenue, has long been a central hub for residents in the South Shore and surrounding neighborhoods. The multi‑level complex houses over 80 retail tenants, ranging from apparel boutiques to specialty food stores, and it also features a popular food court, a cinema, and a community event space. The new gym will occupy the former space of the plaza’s vacant “Fitness Zone” floor, a location that had remained empty since a previous lease expired in 2019.

SISP’s general manager, Maria Hernandez, expressed excitement about the partnership. “We’ve seen a steady uptick in foot traffic during the summer, and adding Planet Fitness will not only enhance our offering but also keep visitors in the plaza longer,” Hernandez said. “It’s a win‑win for both the business and the community.”

Planet Fitness’s Vision for the New Club

Planet Fitness, which has grown to over 2,200 clubs nationwide, is known for its “judgment‑free” philosophy, providing a welcoming environment for people of all fitness levels. According to the company’s press release, the Staten Island club will span approximately 28,000 square feet and feature:

• Three cardio wings with 30 treadmills, 15 elliptical machines, and 10 stationary bikes.
• A dedicated strength training area equipped with 25 free‑weight stations, including Olympic lifts, and a separate high‑intensity training zone.
• A kids’ club that offers supervised activity for children ages 3–12, allowing parents to work out with peace of mind.
• A full-service locker room with showers, lockers, and a relaxation zone.
• A Planet Fitness café that will serve protein shakes, smoothies, and healthy snacks, operating from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Membership options will mirror the brand’s national structure. The “Standard Membership” will cost $19.99 per month, while the “Freedom Membership,” which includes access to the gym’s 24‑hour “No‑Judgment” spaces, will be $22.99. A one‑time $60 initiation fee will be required for all new members.

“We’re thrilled to bring our inclusive fitness model to Staten Island,” said Chris Jansen, Planet Fitness’s regional director for the Northeast. “Our clients love the supportive atmosphere, and we’re confident that this club will fill a niche for budget‑friendly, high‑quality training in the area.”

Community Impact and Economic Considerations

Local businesses and residents have largely welcomed the news, citing the potential for increased foot traffic and economic stimulus. According to a survey conducted by the Staten Island Chamber of Commerce, 68% of respondents believe that the new gym will bring more visitors to the plaza, potentially benefiting surrounding stores.

“We anticipate a significant uptick in late‑afternoon and evening traffic,” said Alan Kim, a long‑time store owner in the plaza’s west wing. “More gym goers means more potential customers for my boutique.”

The city’s Department of Economic Development is also monitoring the project, noting that the addition of the gym will create approximately 12–15 permanent jobs, ranging from front‑desk staff to trainers and maintenance personnel. The project’s estimated construction cost was $4.3 million, funded partially by a 10-year loan from the city’s Small Business Growth Initiative.

The Opening Timeline

Planet Fitness’s timeline for the Staten Island club is as follows:

• October 15 – Final inspection and certification by the New York State Department of Health.
• October 29 – Soft‑opening for selected members and community volunteers.
• November 4–5 – Grand opening event featuring free fitness workshops, a meet‑and‑greet with local trainers, and complimentary protein smoothies for attendees.
• November 10 – Official full‑scale opening for the public.

Members can pre‑register online through Planet Fitness’s website. Early registrants will receive a limited‑time discount: a one‑month free trial for Standard Memberships and a complimentary “Freedom” locker for those who sign up before the opening.

Additional Context: The Plaza’s Ongoing Redevelopment

The new gym is part of a broader revitalization plan for the Staten Island Shopping Plaza. In early 2024, SISP announced a $12 million redevelopment initiative that includes a new food court, a boutique cinema, and a community garden. The partnership with Planet Fitness aligns with the plaza’s mission to provide “well‑being” services to residents.

One link included in the original article directed readers to the official SISP website, where a map of the updated floor plan shows the new gym’s location adjacent to the plaza’s main entrance. The site also lists upcoming events, such as a “Healthy Living Fair” scheduled for December 12, which will feature free fitness assessments, nutrition seminars, and a local health food vendor showcase.

A Step Toward Greater Accessibility

By offering a low‑priced, high‑quality fitness option, Planet Fitness is positioning itself as an accessible community resource. The inclusion of a kids’ club, in particular, signals the brand’s recognition that families often seek convenient ways to stay active. Local school districts have expressed interest in partnering with the gym for after‑school fitness programs, a possibility that could further integrate the club into the community fabric.

As the opening date approaches, residents of Staten Island can look forward to a new venue that blends fitness, convenience, and community engagement—all under one roof. The new Planet Fitness club promises to be more than just a gym; it aims to become a gathering place where people can pursue health goals, socialize, and support one another in a judgment‑free environment.