Some Bronx residents will soon have to start paying to use what had long-been free recreation centers.

Many residents say they work out at the free centers because they can?t afford to join a heath club. However, starting July 1 people over the age of 17 will have to pay a $50 annual fee for centers without pool and a $75 annual fee for centers with a pool. Residents under 17 will still have free admission and seniors over the age of 55 will only have to pay $10 a year.

The new fees will affect six centers in the Bronx, Manhattan and Brooklyn. City Public Advocate Betsy Gotbaum says charging a fee for the recreation centers is unfair. Gotbaum is calling on the parks department to find a way to keep the centers free.

Related Link:NYC Department of Parks and Recreation