Marietta Police Department employees now have a larger space to squeeze in a workout.
The department converted its basement, which was being used for long-term storage, into a new fitness center for employees.
The 1,800-square-foot space is equipped with dumbbells, free weights and several pieces of cardio equipment donated by WellStar Health Place and the Marietta City School System.
Marietta police spokesman Chuck McPhilamy said it cost the agency about $70,000 to outfit the space to meet city building requirements and acquire other necessary equipment. The department used asset forfeiture funds to pay for the project.
Credit: Marietta Police Department
Credit: Marietta Police Department
McPhilamy said the facility, which is open 24 hours a day, is popular with officers who like to arrive early and exercise before their shifts start, as well as court employees who like a cardio boost during lunch to power through the rest of the day.
The center allows officers to maintain their fitness levels without worrying about where they will store uniforms, weapons and other gear they are required to carry, McPhilamy added.
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“The key for us is how do we enable people to get a workout in when you don’t have that ability to just park at a gym on your way to and from work,” he said, adding the fitness center serves that purpose.
Marietta police Major Jake King, along with Sgt. Josh Liedke and officer Daniel Van Ness, began work on replacing a small gym at the station several years ago. The three officers were instrumental in securing funding, clearing out the basement, getting approval from the city and acquiring the fitness equipment needed to stock the gym.
The gym also includes part of a wall that features inspirational quotes submitted by officers, King said.
King said the fitness center allows officers to maintain their physical and mental fitness so they are ready to respond to any situation the job demands.
“That only benefits the community,” King said.
Credit: Marietta Police Department
Credit: Marietta Police Department
Emily Cipra, a Marietta police court clerk, said she uses the fitness center on most days after work for power lifting and weight lifting.
Using the gym is a “great stress reliever for me,” and allows her to perform better at her job, Cipra said.
“I think it’s awesome,” she said. “It’s a great addition. I think every job should have a gym.”
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