For over a half-century, it has been a staple of the Northern Lehigh community.

It was only fitting then, that Rentschler Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram in Slatington celebrated its grand reopening in style.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held Friday morning which saw guests take a tour of the new building, a symbol of its commitment to excellence and service.

Jodi Nestor, from the office of state Rep. Zach Mako, presented a certificate for the grand reopening and ribbon cutting ceremony,

“I can’t say enough about this family,” Nestor said.

That was followed by a proclamation from the office of state Sen. Bob Casey.

Cindy Miller, chair, Greater Northern Lehigh Chamber of Commerce, thanked the dealership for all of its years of service to its customers and community.

Greg Rentschler, vice president, said it was good to see so many people who played a role in the completion of the new addition, a 9,000-square-foot shop service department.

Rentschler said it allowed them to get a higher roof to be able to lift trucks with things that are taller.

He said there are 13 bays total in that building.

Previously, they only had seven to eight. The old shop which is adjacent is now a service drive that boasts a separate section with a glass vestibule.

“We knew we needed a bigger shop, we knew we needed a bigger space,” Rentschler said. “The end result was what we were looking for.”

Fred Rentschler, president, Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram, said that his brother, Rick Rentschler, president, Rentschler Chevrolet, couldn’t make it for the ribbon cutting.

Fred noted that the business was established in 1973, which shows “how long it took our family to get here.”

“We’ve been very lucky,” Fred Rentschler said.

Greg Rentschler noted that the basket and gift card raffle was held to support the Slatington Fire Company.

The three-day event got underway Thursday and continues today from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.