What is the status of the Johnstown Public Safety Building?

The Johnstown Public Safety Building, a century-old structure, is undergoing a major renovation project after the city secured $5 million in federal and state funding.

How much will the Johnstown Public Safety Building renovation cost?

The renovation of the Johnstown Public Safety Building is expected to cost over $10 million, which is significantly less than the $20+ million it would have cost to build a new facility.

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Johnstown Secures $5M to Renovate Century-Old Public Safety Building

Q: Why is the Johnstown Public Safety Building significant?

The Johnstown Public Safety Building has historic significance, as it has housed the Johnstown Police Department, Johnstown Fire Department, and Anthony C. Truscello Council Chambers since its dedication in 1926.

16 Nov

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Summary

$5M in federal and state funding secured for renovations
Repairing current building could cost over $10M, new building over $20M
Building has historic significance, housing police, fire, and council chambers

Johnstown Secures $5M to Renovate Century-Old Public Safety Building

As of November 16, 2025, the city of Johnstown, Pennsylvania has decided to proceed with renovating its century-old Public Safety Building, rather than building a new facility at another location. The current building, located at 401 Washington Street downtown, was formally dedicated in December 1926 and holds historic significance, housing the Johnstown Police Department, Johnstown Fire Department, and Anthony C. Truscello Council Chambers.

Approximately $5 million in federal and state funding has been secured for the renovation work, which is expected to cost over $10 million. An entirely new building would likely have come with a price tag of more than $20 million, an expense the city is unable to afford given the current funding stream. City Manager Art Martynuska noted that unless additional funding becomes available, the city will move forward with renovating the existing structure.