SAN DIEGO (KGTV) -- A San Diego gym owner said he is keeping his doors open despite state restrictions on indoor operations that took effect early Wednesday morning.
For Shawn Gilbert, the owner of Boulevard Fitness in University Heights, keeping his business open is a matter of survival.
"I took a huge financial hit in May. Money out of my pocket that's never coming back. We have bills to pay, we have rent to pay,” Gilbert told ABC 10News.
Gilbert said he believes his gym can operate safely with face covering and social distancing guidelines because it is a large, open space with high ceilings. The gym also has an outdoor space that Gilbert plans to also utilize.
According to Gilbert, none of his gym members or employees have tested positive for coronavirus.
Gilbert told ABC 10News he’s prepared for any possible citations for staying open.
"We have a lawyer with six other gyms, all representing us gym owners. What [Gov. Gavin] Newsom did this time is unlawful. I find it criminal,” said Gilbert.
Boulevard Fitness is closed Wednesday for cleaning, but the facility will reopen Thursday at 6 a.m.