Philadelphia Fitness Coalition protesting restrictions on city gyms amid coronavirus pandemic
Philadelphia COVID-19 live updates, news and information
PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- More than two dozen gyms in Philadelphia are joining forces, demanding that the city allows them to reopen.
They have created the Philadelphia Fitness Coalition and have gathered more than 1,500 signatures in opposition to the new restrictions.
As the number of COVID-19 cases rises, the city required gyms to shut down indoor activities at the end of last week.
But gym owners say it is unfair because of the safety precautions they have put in place.
The coalition gathered Tuesday outside of City Hall, asking for a meeting with Mayor Jim Kenney.
They say they provide an essential service in the health and wellness industry and should be allowed to remain open.
"The mayor has cut off the number one tool our community uses to maintain their mental and physical wellness. If this continues it will be a deathblow to an already decimated industry, eliminating jobs and income for thousands of employees," Gavin McKay of Unite Fitness said.
The group of more than 30 studios says they want permission to continue operating - even if it means following even stricter guidelines and safety protocols.
Last week, the city's top health official, Dr. Thomas Farley, defended the city's decision to tighten restrictions, saying now is the riskiest time for the transmission of the virus.
"What was now safe is now dangerous with the change in the weather. Many businesses feel they put safety measures in place, sure they have, and I'm sure there's no spread there and that's true in many places. Remember, there are more people than ever with the virus," said Farley.
City officials said dramatic action is needed to respond to an exponential growth in cases and hospitalizations.
On Tuesday, health officials confirmed an additional 1,077 cases of COVID-19. That brings the number of confirmed cases to 61,780.
The Department of Public Health confirmed seven additional fatalities in Philadelphia. This brings the number of residents who have succumbed to the virus in the city to 1,960.
MORE COVID-19 COVERAGE
How is 2nd wave of COVID-19 impacting local hospitals?
As the second wave of COVID-19 hits the Philadelphia region, doctors and medical professionals discuss how the virus is impacting hospitals.
Grey Lodge Pub in Mayfair closing
The new round of COVID-19 regulations was the final straw for one Philadelphia restaurant. The Grey Lodge Pub in Mayfair is closing its doors for good after 70 years in business. The Lucky Cat Brewing Company, which is a standalone business inside the pub, will remain open.
Philadelphia museums knocked back down by new COVID-19 restrictions
The new restrictions put in place to tackle the surge of COVID-19 cases in Philadelphia are hitting museums in the area hard. After going through a five-month shutdown during the first wave, they are being shut down again, which in some cases, will cause hard economic pain and uncertainty for employees.
National Constitution Center temporarily closes to the public through January 1, 2021
In accordance with health guidelines from the City of Philadelphia in response to COVID-19, the National Constitution Center is temporarily closed to the public through January 1, 2021. The Center offers a range of free online programs and resources for learners of all ages. CLICK HERE to learn more.
Houses of worship in Philly vow to persevere amid new COVID restrictions
The new COVID-19 restrictions in Philadelphia will have a major impact on houses of worship, which for the time being can operate at only 5% capacity. While the Archdiocese of Philadelphia revises its guidance, some churches and synagogues in the city have a variety of innovative plans to carry on through the holidays.
Philadelphia-area stores stock up as new COVID restrictions set to begin Friday
As more coronavirus restrictions are set to begin Friday, there seem to be fewer paper products on the shelves of stores.
FDA approves 1st rapid virus test that gives results at home
U.S. regulators on Tuesday allowed emergency use of the first rapid coronavirus test that can be performed entirely at home and delivers results in 30 minutes.
Health experts warn against holiday travel, unnecessary COVID testing
Health experts are urging caution ahead of the holiday season, asking that you think twice about traveling - and getting unnecessary COVID-19 tests.
As COVID cases rise, no need to stockpile supplies, expert says
As COVID-19 cases continue to surge, consumers are stocking up, and grocery stores are responding. But before you go on a spending spree, there are some things to consider.
CDC says masks protect you, not just those around you, in updated guidance
As the U.S. sees a nationwide spike in coronavirus cases, the Centers for Disease Control released new mask guidance. The latest update says wearing a face-covering doesn't just protect the people around you, but it also protects the wearer from incoming virus projectiles.
CDC releases updated guidelines for Thanksgiving
The CDC posted its most specific guidance yet on Thanksgiving Monday, which emphasizes that the safest option for the holiday is celebrating only with people in your household or taking extra precautions like wearing masks and keeping your distance if you celebrate with others.
COVID-19 RESOURCES
How to properly wash your hands
Which masks protect those around you best?
