Construction on a new fitness center has begun in the Towson Commons, President of the Greater Towson Council of Community Associations Paul Hartman confirmed.

The whole lot will be close to 50,000 square feet, where the movie theater used to be. Construction on a swimming pool in the area has already begun, and while the name of the fitness center remains undisclosed, it is part of a national chain.

“It is really good to see the building being used and not just be a ghost town,” Hartman said. “There will be plenty of activity inside once the building is open.”

The county council passed a bill Jan. 22 that would limit parking spaces in that area, according to the Baltimore Sun.

Hartman said that this was done in hopes that people will walk to the gym during times when employees are working in the building next door.

“I don’t think parking will be an issue,” Hartman said.

Hartman hopes the gym will draw more attraction to the site, and more stores will gain interest in the first floor level.

“I think it will be really good for people that work in Towson,” Hartman said. “It will be right there, where people can go during their lunch break or before or after work. It will be an attractive place for people to get a good gym membership.”

Baltimore County Councilman David Marks said he has no information except it should open by end of 2013.