Happy Valley Times

Sen. Wayne Langerholc, Jr. (R-35) and Rep. Jim Rigby (R-71) announced the passage of legislation authorizing the State Armory Board to lease the Johnstown Walters Avenue Readiness Center to the United States Army Reserve.

The Johnstown Walters Avenue Readiness Center, owned by the state, has been utilized by the Pennsylvania National Guard for over 68 years. In return for leasing it to the U.S. Army Reserve, the PA National Guard will gain access to hangar space at the Johnstown Cambria County Airport, offering new opportunities for both entities.

“Today’s authorization ensures that the Walters Avenue Center will remain a military installation, will not close, and will keep these jobs in our area. In negotiating this vital legislation, we were able to establish new opportunities for the PA National Guard, United States Army Reserve, and our area,” said Langerholc. “It was a pleasure to work alongside Rep. Rigby in delivering this result.”

“I am proud and grateful to have worked with Sen. Langerholc to secure authorization for Walters Avenue,” stated Rigby. “The center will continue to service the PA National Guard, in addition to the U.S. Army Reserve, and serve our constituents with the economic activity and jobs which come from having a military installation. This authorization is a win for Pennsylvania and especially for residents of Senate District 35 and House District 71.”

The legislation now goes to the governor for his signature.

CONTACT: Gwenn Dando