I recommended a chain gym because it means that you can, generally, use other gyms in the event that you might be closer to a different one at any given time. For instance, if you're a member of a WSC out in VA, but are going to be in the District on a Saturday, you could workout at one of the district WSC's potentially saving time.

As for commute, if it is on your way to/from work, then the commute is fine. If it is going to be a total pain to get to then try and find something that isn't. When I switched jobs, I switched my home gym because I knew that I wouldn't want to have to head out of my way to go to the gym.