Alvernia University’s plans to renovate and rehabilitate the historic American House in downtown Reading are moving forward.
Alvernia officials announced Wednesday that they have selected SCHRADERGROUP Studio as architect and Heim Construction Co. as general contractor for the project at the 45,000-square-foot building at 354 Penn St.
“American House is a key part of our CollegeTowne footprint and showcases our commitment to serving the Reading community through access, opportunity and partnerships,” Dr. Glynis A. Fitzgerald, Alvernia president, said in a statement announcing the hiring of the two firms. “With SCHRADERGROUP and Heim Construction on board, we’re moving this project forward in a way that honors a historic building while creating welcoming, modern spaces for community health and student learning.”
The college bought the property in June 2022 with the intent of making it part of its Reading CollegeTowne.
In September 2023, Alvernia and Berks Community Health Center announced a partnership to develop a state-of-the-art community-based health center at the site.
Because the building is in Reading’s Callowhill Historic District, plans for its renovation had to be approved by the city’s Historical Architectural Review Board.
“American House is a special project because it blends careful historic rehabilitation with spaces that will serve people every day,” SCHRADERGROUP principal Harry Pettoni said. “Our team is focused on honoring the building’s character while creating welcoming, functional environments that support health, learning and community connection.”
Heim Construction Co. president Roy Heim said the project, which will completed in three phases, is extensive and complicated.
“This project is complex, phased and mission-driven, and we’re proud to partner with Alvernia on a build that strengthens downtown Reading,” he said. “We’re committed to quality workmanship, clear coordination and responsible scheduling so the university and its partners can begin serving the community in these new spaces.”
Work at the site has already begun, with demolition kicking off late last year.
Exterior rehabilitation and the construction of a tenant space for the John Paul II Center for Special Learning are set to be completed by May, Alvernia officials said.
Work on the building’s first and second floor will follow, with the site scheduled to be ready to be occupied by March 2027.