Mahanoy Area Chamber of Commerce Announces New Headquarters at Former Lumber Company Site

A new chapter is underway for the Mahanoy Area Chamber of Commerce as the organization announced the official acquisition of its future headquarters at 435 West Centre Street, the longtime home of the former Mahanoy City Lumber & Supply Company.
The milestone marks a significant step in the Chamber’s efforts to strengthen its presence and expand its role in business and community development. The purchase was made possible through the generosity of the Coal Cracker Kids Board of Directors, President Krista Gromalski, Treasurer James Rhodes Jr., and Secretary Sandy Long, who donated the property to the Chamber.

“The acquisition of this building marks a turning point for the Chamber and the entire Mahanoy Area,” said Jeffrey Bowers, Chamber President. “This location gives us a true home base—one that honors our history while creating space for the future of business and community development in our town. We are deeply grateful to Coal Cracker Kids for believing in the mission and potential of Mahanoy City.”

Coal Cracker Kids, a 501(c)(3) public charity, empowers young people throughout the Anthracite Coal Region through youth-led projects focused on local identity, creativity, and professional development. From 2014 to 2019, it operated Coal Cracker Youth-led News, a media outlet produced by teens ages 12 to 18. The organization acquired the lumber company property in 2017, transforming it into an editorial office and youth project hub.

“It has been an honor to shepherd this historic property along its path toward truly becoming a place that brings people together, creating partnerships and addressing the emerging needs of the region economically, culturally, and creatively,” Gromalski said.
A Community Space for Business, Growth, and Tradition

Beyond serving as the Chamber’s new headquarters, the property is planned to become a multi-use community hub. Early plans include:

• A modern meeting hall for civic gatherings, workshops, and business presentations
• Business incubator space and small office units to support local entrepreneurship
• Dedicated storage and staging space for the Chamber’s Christmas decorations and seasonal displays

The Chamber will share renovation timelines and opportunities for community involvement as the revitalization project progresses.

Photo (Left to Right):
Chamber Secretary Tony Merchlinsky
Chamber Vice President Ettore DiCassmerro
Coal Cracker President Krista Gromalski
Coal Cracker Treasurer James Rhodes Jr.
Chamber President Jeffrey Bowers
Chamber Treasurer Dawn Frye