Alvernia University and the Schuylkill YMCA partner to further the impact of Pottsville CollegeTowne by developing additional resources to serve the local community and support economic revitalization efforts.

The project will transform over 8,000 square feet of unused space at 500 Progress Avenue into a gymnastics facility as well as a retail food establishment.

“Pottsville CollegeTowne represents the incredible possibilities that arise when innovation, collaboration, and community spirit align,” said Alvernia University President Glynis A. Fitzgerald, Ph.D. “This partnership showcases the power of vision and teamwork in creating something truly transformative for our community. With the YMCA’s presence, we’re bringing essential resources and opportunities for wellness, education, and connection-not only to our students but to the entire region.”

The expansion will enable the YMCA to double its gymnastics program capacity, growing from 75 to 150 youth participants and addressing a long-standing demand for increased access to youth programming.

In addition to serving local families, the project is expected to create permanent jobs in the community and generate temporary construction employment during the renovation process. Renderings of the proposed project are available here.

The $2.2 million project has already secured $1 million in funding through the Pennsylvania Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program that was announced in November 2024 and over $700,000 in philanthropic commitments.

However, the YMCA and Alvernia University are actively seeking additional support to complete the project and is pursuing grants, sponsorships, and community donations so the project can commence in Spring 2025.

“The Schuylkill YMCA is excited to partner with Alvernia in this critical effort to expand our services and revitalize downtown Pottsville,” said Schuylkill YMCA Board of Directors President Thomas Smith. “This project will only be possible with the generous support of our community.

“We invite everyone to contribute to this transformative initiative to help us provide a modern gymnastics facility that will serve twice as many youth.”

Since its launch in 2021, Pottsville CollegeTowne has played a central role in Alvernia’s commitment to downtown revitalization.

The first phase of the project, completed in January 2023, introduced an academic facility and a satellite site for the O’Pake Institute for Economic Development & Entrepreneurship.

The next phase builds on this success, with plans to continue to serve local residents and families.

Once completed, the facility will add four instructor positions at the YMCA and at least five jobs in the food and beverage retail location.

The construction phase is expected to generate 30 to 40 temporary jobs. These developments underscore Alvernia’s and the YMCA’s shared commitment to creating meaningful opportunities for Pottsville residents.