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These two popular northshore health clubs are joining together in 'strategic partnership'

  //health-fitness.news-articles.net/content/2025/ .. e-joining-together-in-strategic-partnership.html
  Published in Health and Fitness on Saturday, October 18th 2025 at 11:57 GMT by NOLA.com
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A Legacy Fades: Franco’s Cross Gates Health Club Closes After 53 Years

The familiar clang of weights and hum of treadmills have fallen silent at Franco’s Cross Gates Health Club, a New Orleans institution closing its doors after 53 years in business. The closure, announced late last month, marks the end of an era for many local residents who considered the gym more than just a place to exercise; it was a community hub steeped in history and personal connection.

The article published by NOLA.com details the club’s unexpected shutdown, attributing it primarily to rising operational costs and difficulties securing a lease renewal. Owner Frank “Franco” DiGiovanni Jr., son of the founder, made the difficult decision after negotiations with the landlord failed to reach an agreement. The gym's location at 6301 Airline Drive in Metairie has been its home since 1971.

Franco’s Cross Gates wasn’t your typical modern fitness center. It retained a distinctly old-school feel, eschewing flashy amenities and trendy classes for a focus on traditional strength training and a welcoming atmosphere. The gym boasted a loyal clientele drawn to its straightforward approach and the personalized attention offered by Franco himself and his small team of trainers. The NOLA.com article highlights this aspect, emphasizing that members valued the lack of pretension and the sense of belonging fostered within the club’s walls. Many long-time patrons expressed shock and sadness at the news, lamenting the loss of a place where they had built relationships and pursued fitness goals for decades.

The story begins with Franco DiGiovanni Sr., an immigrant from Italy who arrived in New Orleans in 1958. He initially worked as a barber before recognizing a need for a dedicated strength training facility in the area. He opened Franco’s Gym in 1967, later relocating and rebranding it as Franco's Cross Gates Health Club. The gym quickly gained popularity among serious weightlifters and bodybuilders, attracting individuals seeking a no-frills environment focused on results.

The club’s reputation extended beyond its immediate neighborhood. It became known for hosting local bodybuilding competitions and served as a training ground for numerous athletes across various disciplines. While the article doesn't delve deeply into specific athlete success stories, it underscores the gym's role in supporting the local fitness community. The NOLA.com piece mentions that Franco Sr. was instrumental in fostering a culture of dedication and hard work among his members.

The financial pressures leading to the closure were multifaceted. While DiGiovanni Jr. declined to disclose precise figures, he cited escalating property taxes, insurance premiums, and utility costs as significant contributors to the gym’s operational burden. He also explained that the landlord's proposed lease renewal terms were unsustainable for the business. The article notes a broader trend of small businesses struggling with rising expenses in the post-pandemic economic climate.

The closure leaves approximately 20 employees without jobs, adding another layer of concern to the situation. DiGiovanni Jr. expressed regret over the impact on his staff and indicated he would assist them in finding new employment opportunities. He also acknowledged the emotional toll the decision has taken on him and his family, who have been deeply involved in running the gym for generations.

The article includes a brief mention of potential future plans. While DiGiovanni Jr. hasn’t ruled out the possibility of reopening Franco's Cross Gates at a different location, he emphasized that finding a suitable space and securing financing would be challenging. He expressed gratitude to the members who have supported the gym over the years and conveyed his sadness at having to say goodbye.

The outpouring of support from former and current members on social media demonstrates the profound impact Franco’s Cross Gates had on the New Orleans community. Many shared memories, photos, and heartfelt messages expressing their appreciation for the gym's unique atmosphere and the DiGiovanni family’s dedication. The closure serves as a poignant reminder of how even beloved local institutions can be vulnerable to economic pressures, leaving a void in the fabric of the city’s fitness landscape.

[ https://www.nola.com/news/business/francos-cross-gates-health-club/article_ed8df8b4-c11c-4f74-98dd-a6e1abafb2b7.html ]