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.
17³Ô¹ÏÍø announces academic program restructuring
Expanded four-college model enhances scholarship and inter-departmental dialogue
Loyack shares plans for second phase of CollegeTowne at President’s Dinner
Alumni and community leaders earn prestigious honors
17³Ô¹ÏÍø unveils newly opened downtown Reading location
New facility boasts 125,000 sq. ft. live-learn and community partner space
17³Ô¹ÏÍø earns top 100 ranking among best regional universities for third consecutive year
Education and nursing programs also earn accolades by U.S. News & World Report
Student dining options expand to downtown Reading
New tenants arrive at Reading CollegeTowne Campus
Three community-enhancing organizations make a move to 401 Penn Street
Faculty gain access to entrepreneurial resources
New position supports 17³Ô¹ÏÍø faculty, staff and student entrepreneurial and scholarly activities
17³Ô¹ÏÍø selects downtown Pottsville location
Pottsville CollegeTowne initiative takes first step
