The former Les Schwab Tire Center building at 101 W. Second in downtown Spokane could undergo a remodel that would have people pumping iron instead of tires.

Sean O'Regan, of Cheney, says he's eyeing the property to transform the 7,500-square-foot space into Urban Jungle, a gym with a tropical island theme. He submitted a predevelopment conference application to the city of Spokane in April.

Tentatively, O'Regan envisions a renovated space resembling a tiki hut surrounded by artificial palm trees and torches, and says the design would be a face lift to the structure and neighboring businesses. The building is located at the southwest corner of Browne Street and Second Avenue.

The remodel project is estimated to cost $400,000, according the predevelopment application. Proposed upgrades include replacing the electrical and HVAC systems, plumbing updates, and bathroom and shower installations. Some non-load bearing walls will be removed and others will be added to create office spaces.

O'Regan says he is potentially buying the building for $800,000, but has yet to secure financing. The property is owned by 2450 LLC, according to tax records on file with Spokane County. 2450 LLC, which does business as Lilac City Grocery, purchased the property for $925,000 in 2020, tax records show.

"This is the plan and space I really want to go with," O'Regan says. "Unfortunately, my bank isn't keen on financing this specific location. If they don't, then I will have to look at other locations or drop the plans."

He says the proximity of the proposed gym has the potential to attract members.

"It is right across from a boxing gym and neighbors another fitness center," O'Regan says. "Plus, it is close enough to the office buildings and hospitals to give professionals and health care workers a nearby gym. People don't want to drive halfway across town to workout before or after work."

Part of O'Regan's plan is to hire an operator-trainer, who is currently working with nearby SCE Fitness LLC, located at 104 W. Third. He also plans to bring in a supplement specialist to sell health supplements out of the space.

"The health and wellness industry is still trending upward," O'Regan contends. "People are more conscious and concerned with being and staying healthy, so we should have no trouble filling the space."

Monthly memberships to the gym will cost $300, O'Regan says, noting that membership includes parking and will help the facility cover operating costs. He says any net income will go back into the community through helping nonprofits such as the Adult & Teen Challenge PacWest, at 2400 N. Craig Road in Spokane.

As proposed, the full-service gym will include machine-based weights, free weights, red light therapy rooms, cold baths, and stretching rooms, and O'Regan says healthy drinks and snacks will be available.