Officials Surprised To Learn Bel Air Athletic Club Closing In February

BEL AIR, MD — The Bel Air Athletic Club will be closing its doors next month and the Bel Air Board of Town Commissioners and town staff expressed disappointment in this decision at a recent hearing.

The BAAC aims for a Feb. 16 closing date. Commissioners and staff said during the hearing that they were unaware it was closing and unaware of any plans for the property.

"Despite social media reports to the contrary, there is no known nexus between potential development at the Harford Mall and BAAC’s closing. Town officials were not aware of their decision and subsequent announcement until we began receiving inquires earlier this morning," town officials disclosed in a statement. "We were as surprised as anyone when we heard the news and then saddened to learn of their decision."

The BAAC has roots dating back to the 1970s and has served generations of families.

"They have been an excellent, and popular, community partner who have served the town and Greater Bel Air for several decades and they will be missed," the statement noted.

According to the BAAC website, "since the COVID-19 shutdowns and their continued impact on the industry, Wellbridge ownership has worked diligently with the landlord to negotiate rent that leads to a sustainable and healthy business."

"In conjunction, our team has routinely gone above and beyond to serve your health and wellness needs while working to push the business back to profitable levels. Unfortunately, Bel Air Athletic Club’s landlord has decided to repurpose the property. Therefore, we must close the club’s doors permanently on Thursday, February 16, 2023," the website disclosed.

Anyone with questions about their membership can reach out to the BAAC at belairclubclosing@wellbridge.com.