HAZLETON, LUZERNE COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU) — After being forced to shut its doors nearly six years ago due to financial troubles, The YMCA in Hazleton will reopen.
Today local and state leaders gathered at the facility for a ribbon cutting to celebrate.
After years of work, people in Hazleton will once again have a YMCA. It is a space they will use for childcare, wellness, and community.
"It's tremendous. It's so exciting. We've waited for this for so long," said Leann Fallabel, YMCA Hazleton Advisory Board.
‘House of Horrors’ suspects arrive for court
The reopening of the newly named Mericle Family YMCA Center will be rolled out in phases:The low-cost Pasco L. Schiavo Early Learning Center will be open in early February.
Glen Farley from Hazleton is a working dad. He says he's looking forward to having a new option for childcare.
"This is a YMCA that's been a part of the community for many years. It's just great to see it back," said Farley.
In April, renovations will be finalized on classrooms and the gym for before and after-school care.
Later in 2025, officials will work to fund renovations on the pools, locker rooms, and wellness center.
Bringing back a vital service for the city of Hazleton.
The reopening was possible through funding from the state, support from the Mericle family, and several local community organizations and businesses.
