The March edition of the local TV program hosted by Senator Dave Argall highlights two significant redevelopment projects in Pennsylvania: Alvernia University Pottsville CollegeTowne and the Mericle Family Center YMCA in Hazleton. These initiatives have revitalized blighted and vacant buildings, bringing renewed purpose to these areas.
The first segment focuses on Alvernia University Pottsville CollegeTowne, which opened in early 2023. The site was previously a vacant grocery store but has been transformed through state and private sector funding. Since its opening, 50 students have graduated with degrees in fields such as nursing, early childhood education, and business administration. Currently, 250 additional students are enrolled at the facility.
Senator Argall and Representative Tim Twardzik recently secured $1 million in state funding to convert unused space into a Schuylkill YMCA gymnastics facility. The Schuylkill YMCA currently offers gymnastics programs to 75 youth, with over 200 more on a waiting list.
“I’ve been very proud to bring Alvernia to downtown Pottsville,” said Argall. “They are training the next generation of nurses, educators, and entrepreneurs and now expanding athletic opportunities in downtown Pottsville.”
The program also features the transformation of the long-vacant Hazleton YMCA building into the Mericle Family Center YMCA through public-private partnerships that raised $7 million. The first phase of renovations is complete, providing an early education facility for 150 children. Future plans include renovating the pool and gymnasium.
“My children learned how to swim right here at the Hazleton YMCA,” said Argall. “Rep. Dane Watro (R-116) and I are VERY pleased to see it reopen for a new generation to create happy memories of their own.”
This edition of the Argall Report will air on local channels and is available online.
