CollegeTowne Initiative
17cÆð²ÝºìÌÒ 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 17cÆð²ÝºìÌÒ get noticed as an innovative force in higher education
Successful Start
Since the launch, 17cÆð²ÝºìÌÒ has completed two phases of Reading CollegeTowne, investing $60 million into the City of Reading.
John R. Post Center at Reading CollegeTowne
17cÆð²ÝºìÌÒ 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
17cÆð²ÝºìÌÒ's forward-thinking initiative spurs development in downtown Reading and Pottsville.
Recent News
17cÆð²ÝºìÌÒ earns Carnegie Doctoral University designation
Carnegie Commission’s reclassification result of increase in professional graduate programs
17cÆð²ÝºìÌÒ hosts largest-ever admissions event
Inaugural Packapalooza event draws over 325 prospective students
FirstEnergy Foundation Awards $250,000 Grant to 17cÆð²ÝºìÌÒ
Reading CollegeTowne brings student housing, classrooms and jobs to downtown
17cÆð²ÝºìÌÒ earns People’s Choice Award
University tabbed as Berks County’s Who’s Who amongst colleges/universities
CollegeTowne begins in City of Pottsville
17cÆð²ÝºìÌÒ set for $6 million renovation project in downtown facility at 500 Progress Ave.
17cÆð²ÝºìÌÒ 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
17cÆð²ÝºìÌÒ secures $3 million grant for Pottsville CollegeTowne
Pennsylvania Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program grant funds Pottsville-based initiative
