POTTSVILLE, PA (January 4, 2018) – With the support and collaboration of the city of Pottsville, community partners SEDCO, PADCO, Schuylkill Chamber of Commerce, Schuylkill Visitor’s Bureau and PBA, D.G. Yuengling & Son, Inc. was awarded $1 million for revitalization projects to support Schuylkill County tourism through the Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RACP).

RACP grants fund economic development projects that have a regional or multi-jurisdictional impact and generate a substantial increase or maintain current levels of employment, tax revenues or other measures of economic activity. Funded by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania’s Office of the Budget, the approved projects support civic, cultural, recreational and economic development improvements. The recipient must match the funds for the project. The designated improvements for Schuylkill County revitalization is estimated at $2 million, where the RACP grant represents half, or $1 million, of the necessary matching funds. An application and business plan associated with the project is due to the Office of the Budget within six months of the date of the award letter received December 22.

The original application submitted proposed a tourism project that includes a historical museum showcasing over 185 years of brewing history, an enhanced tour route, and community events space, which would have an immediate benefit to both county residents and businesses alike. America’s Oldest Brewery in Pottsville receives over 70,000 visitors annually from tour visitors, shoppers and events. It is the largest tourist attraction in Schuylkill County.

“America’s Oldest Brewery’s history and tour represents a rich part of America’s and Pennsylvania’s history,” said Richard “Dick” Yuengling, owner and president of D.G. Yuengling & Son. “As a strong believer in Pottsville’s potential, this funding brings the brewery one step closer in its partnership with the city, local businesses and the community to make Pottsville a better place to work, live and visit.”

Yuengling Brewery continues to invest in its infrastructure. During prohibition, the brewery built a creamery across the street of America’s Oldest Brewery in Pottsville to stay in business and keep workers employed, and re-opened in March 2016 as the Yuengling Gift Shop and Museum. An investment of $10 million funded by the brewery, these campus renovations use industry-leading sustainable technology.

Public tours of the brewery are offered at no charge. Visit www.yuengling.com for tour times and gift shop hours.

“America’s Oldest Brewery attracts visitors to Schuylkill County from across the country and even outside the United States. As our county’s key attraction, the brewery affords us the opportunity to present Schuylkill County’s story, that of an American Original, rich in history, culture, heritage and natural beauty to the world outside our door. America’s Oldest Brewery is the cornerstone upon which our full complement of lodging, restaurants, galleries, retailers and tourism industry partners build our tourism destination offering. Investments in the Yuengling brewery benefit not only Schuylkill County, but the region as well.” Regina Gargano, Executive Director of Schuylkill County Visitors Bureau

 “On behalf of myself, City Council, and the residents of Pottsville, I would like to commend D.G. Yuengling & Son, Inc. on the recent RACP award. Good things happen in our community, when people work toward a common goal.  We are excited to work with the Yuengling family to make this project successful as they build upon the rich history that has made this company such a success.” Mayor James Muldowney

“We are thankful for the efforts our legislators and Governor Wolf made in making Pottsville a priority. This needed support is one step closer to growing its business district. Local businesses will no doubt benefit from the increased visitor traffic and extended time spent in the city and surrounding areas.  What’s good for Pottsville is good for the community.” Matt Direnzo, President of PBA (Pottsville Business Association), Savas Logothetides, Executive Director of PBA & President of Pottsville Area Development Corporation (PADCO)

“Community development and tourism development are critical components of a county wide economic development strategy which adds to the quality of life options available to all of the residents of Schuylkill County. The Yuengling Brewery is a benchmark which helps people find Schuylkill County on the map.” Frank Zukas, President of Schuylkill Economic Development Corporation (SEDCO)

“The Schuylkill Chamber of Commerce is pleased to recognize and support D.G. Yuengling & Son, Inc., America’s Oldest Brewery, in its receipt of the PA RACP Grant and its proposed tourism project to expand the historical Yuengling story and the continued enhancement of the Yuengling tour and community events space for the benefit of our businesses and community. The many visitors that Yuengling brings to Schuylkill County each year, greatly enhances the success of our business community. Through continued collaboration and partnerships, D.G. Yuengling & Son, Inc. works with our community to provide enhanced economic growth and new development. The Yuengling story is America’s story and the benefits of their continued growth and success positively impacts the 800 business and non-profit members of the Schuylkill Chamber of Commerce. The Schuylkill Chamber of Commerce, celebrating our 100^th Anniversary in 2018, appreciates the economic and community leadership that D.G. Yuengling & Son, Inc. provides to our area.” Bob Carl, President and CEO of Schuylkill Chamber of Commerce

Last year, the brewery announced a contribution upwards of $3 million to support economic growth for the city’s parking deck located three blocks from America’s Oldest Brewery in Pottsville. The garage closed in October 2016 after it was deemed structurally deficient, at which point the city lost parking for area businesses and visitors.

 

About D.G. Yuengling & Son, Inc:

Based in Pottsville, PA, D.G. Yuengling & Son, Inc., America’s Oldest Brewery®, is family-owned and operated since 1829. Soon to be in 21 states, production is supported by two breweries in Pottsville, PA and one in Tampa, FL. Principal beer brands include Traditional Lager, Light Lager, Black & Tan, Premium, Light, Dark Brewed Porter, Lord Chesterfield Ale, and Oktoberfest.  For more information about the brewery, tours and merchandise visit www.yuengling.com.