Bishop McCort acquires new building to expand healthcare program, communities access to technology

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. (WTAJ) — The Bishop McCort Catholic High School will soon be expanding as they've recently acquired the former AmeriServ building.

The school announced that through a $897,000 grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Community & Economic Development, they've acquired the building. The former AmeriServ building sits on the corner of Franklin Street and Osborne Street. The new facility will be both for educational and community purposes.

First, the building will be used to expand the Health, Education and Learning (H.E.A.L) program. The program is in partnership with Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center and offers students who are interested in a career in healthcare a jumpstart into post-secondary education.

Secondly, the new building will also offer online learning opportunities for area students who are looking for an option outside of the traditional setting.

Lastly, Bishop McCort also expressed that the building would be open to the public to be utilized as an internet cafe. Computers and internet access will be available to area residents and students who may not have readily accessible technology.

"We are so excited to expand the footprint of the Bishop McCort campus and to bring additional technology and learning services to our students and the Johnstown community," Tom Smith, Bishop McCort Principal/CAO said. "We are grateful for the efforts of Representative Frank Burns in helping to secure this grant and Senator Wayne Langerholc for introducing us to this opportunity."

Burns will be presenting the school's principal with a check for the project on Thursday, Nov. 21.