Home / Business and Economy / Johnstown Secures $5M to Renovate Century-Old Public Safety Building
Johnstown Secures $5M to Renovate Century-Old Public Safety Building
16 Nov
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
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.
The Public Safety Building has faced various issues over the years, including outdated HVAC systems, mold, and a leaky roof that requires the use of plastic children's pools to collect water. However, city officials are committed to preserving the historic building rather than demolishing it, as the cost of razing the structure would also be prohibitively expensive.
