Planning commission approves Zoning Permit for Strength Collective gym at 6915 Raywood Road

The Monona Planning Commission approved a zoning permit on Monday for Strength Collective LLC to open a 24-hour gym at 6915B Raywood Road (Case 2-001-2025), with conditions recommended by staff and an added condition to revisit lighting and security if they become a concern.

The applicant, who introduced themselves as Alex, Martha and Jeff, described the business as a collective of independent personal trainers offering monthly memberships, high-end strength and bodybuilding equipment, and space for independent contractors such as massage therapists and physical therapists. They told the commission the business expects roughly 8–12 visitors per day at opening and projects growth to about 30–35 visitors per day over the first year.

City planning staff told commissioners the site is in the commercial-industrial zoning district, has been vacant for more than six months, and was last occupied by Openwood Studios. Staff noted site circulation will use the existing curb cut on the south side, minimal exterior building changes are planned, there is one wall-mounted light at the main entrance, and that two commercial dumpsters currently occupy one parking stall and are not screened. Staff recommended approval with conditions.

Commission discussion focused on parking, hours and safety. The applicant said the business would operate on a trainer-rental model (trainers as independent contractors), that five trainers are anticipated (not all present at once), and that the landlord indicated access to most of the building's 14 shared parking stalls. Commissioners repeatedly urged the applicant to monitor parking usage and return if parking becomes a problem. Several commissioners asked about exterior lighting and security; the applicants said interior cameras and a locked main entrance with a key‑fob system would be used and that they would add lighting if security concerns arise.

Following questions and a brief amendment, the commission approved the permit subject to staff conditions and an addendum that lighting and security be revisited if concerns develop. The vote was taken by voice and recorded as carried.

The applicants were welcomed to Monona after the vote and the commission moved on to other business.

Details from the hearing will be included in the official permit file; applicants said they plan to return to the city for signage approval at a later date.