Council authorizes replacement of decades‑old fitness equipment at Greenbelt Aquatic & Fitness Center

The Greenbelt City Council authorized the purchase of new Matrix fitness equipment for the Greenbelt Aquatic and Fitness Center to replace machines that range from 11 to 23 years old.

Staff recommended a single purchase of 13 pieces — five treadmills, four recumbent cycles and four elliptical machines — from Johnson Health Tech North America Inc. for $46,999.50, which fits within the FY2026 replacement fund budget. Council approved the purchase by voice vote.

Accessibility review: Recreation staff, the department’s DEI officer and the equipment vendor reviewed accessibility features in response to council questions. Staff adjusted the equipment mix to include at least one treadmill with a lower deck height and extended handrails and selected recumbent cycles and ellipticals with step‑through designs and larger, high‑contrast tactile buttons to improve access for users with stability or vision impairments.

Why it matters: Replacing aged equipment is intended to reduce repairs, improve user safety and broaden access. Staff noted the fitness center is used by a wide range of people and said they will continue to provide guidance and accommodation for patrons who require assistance.

What was decided: Council authorized the purchase and noted staff will continue to listen to users and adjust equipment choices in the future as needs are identified.