Hazleton YMCA reopens with renovated pool, gym and expanded community services
Wed, July 29, 2026 at 11:05 PM
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Hazleton YMCA reopens with renovated pool, gym and expanded community services
HAZLETON, LUZERNE CO. (WOLF) —The Greater Wyoming Valley Area YMCA marked the reopening of its Hazleton branch, the Mericle Family Center, Wednesday with a ribbon-cutting ceremony downtown
The building at 75 S. Church St. previously operated as the Hazleton YWCA before financial constraints forced it to close in 2019. The organization merged with the Greater Wyoming Valley Area YMCA in 2024, beginning a phased effort to renovate and reopen the facility under new leadership
The first phase included the Pasco L. Schiavo Early Learning Center, which opened in March 2025. The center has operated near capacity and received a Keystone STAR 4 designation under Pennsylvania’s early childhood education quality rating system
The latest phase restored the facility’s swimming pool, gymnasium and traditional YMCA membership services. The building also includes a new wellness center and can serve up to 180 children through child care programs and partnerships with the Hazleton Area School District
Jeremy Popiel, president and CEO of the Greater Wyoming Valley Area YMCA, emphasized the value of community spaces like the YMCA, which help cities thrive by serving as centers for social activity and recreation
“Every community should have an anchor or hub in the heart of the city, and having the YMCA positioned in downtown Hazleton allows us to serve in that role. We can give community members opportunities not only to participate in wellness activities, but also to experience a sense of belonging and social connection,” said Popiel
Members who joined through the YMCA’s Early Bird Special will receive advance access July 30 and 31. The Hazleton YMCA will open to the public during a community open house Aug. 1 and 2
For more information about Hazleton’s child care programs, membership options, aquatics and wellness activities, visit the YMCA website
