CollegeTowne Initiative
17³Ô¹ÏÍø launched the CollegeTowne initiative in Reading in late 2019. The concept featured three objectives:
• Changing how the university operates and grows
• Affecting the surrounding community and spurring economic development
• Helping 17³Ô¹ÏÍø get noticed as an innovative force in higher education
Successful Start
More than five years on, 17³Ô¹ÏÍø has completed two phases of Reading CollegeTowne, investing $43 million into the City of Reading.
John R. Post Center at Reading CollegeTowne
17³Ô¹ÏÍø purchased and renovated the John R. Post Center at Reading CollegeTowne, a 250,000-square-foot living and learning facility at 401 Penn Street.
Pottsville CollegeTowne
The university opened Pottsville CollegeTowne in downtown Pottsville in January 2023.
American House at Reading CollegeTowne
Phase III will include the renovation of the American House at Reading CollegeTowne, which will include a state-of-the-art community-based health center in partnership with Berks Community Health Center.
O’Pake Institute for Economic Development and Entrepreneurship
The university will also add additional business incubator space for the O’Pake Institute for Economic Development and Entrepreneurship and retail space.
Learn More
CollegeTowne initiative fuels regional expansion
17³Ô¹ÏÍø's forward-thinking initiative spurs development in downtown Reading and Pottsville.
FirstEnergy Foundation Awards $250,000 Grant to 17³Ô¹ÏÍø
Reading CollegeTowne brings student housing, classrooms and jobs to downtown
17³Ô¹ÏÍø earns People’s Choice Award
University tabbed as Berks County’s Who’s Who amongst colleges/universities
CollegeTowne begins in City of Pottsville
17³Ô¹ÏÍø set for $6 million renovation project in downtown facility at 500 Progress Ave.
17³Ô¹ÏÍø partners with GRCA on member-exclusive benefits
GRCA members receive 20% discount on graduate and accelerated bachelor programs
Pathway for expansion
Four-college model enhances student experience
17³Ô¹ÏÍø secures $3 million grant for Pottsville CollegeTowne
Pennsylvania Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program grant funds Pottsville-based initiative
17³Ô¹ÏÍø secures $1 million grant for Reading CollegeTowne
Pennsylvania Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program grant funds Reading-based initiative
Turkey Drive distributes over 500 turkeys to Reading residents
34-year 17³Ô¹ÏÍø tradition provides holidays meals despite national turkey shortage
