Kim announces $4 million in funds to help transform former Bishop McDevitt site
Funds would be used to help create place for JEDI Innovation Center
Rep. Patty Kim April 22, 2022 | 1:14 PM
HARRISBURG, April 22 – After issuing her support for a project to revitalize a landmark building in her district, state Rep. Patty Kim, D-Dauphin, announced that $4 million in funding has been approved for the first-floor renovation of the main building on the former Bishop McDevitt campus on Market Street.
“This project is essential for the city and its residents,” Kim said. “Unfortunately, blight has been an issue across the state, when vacated buildings become eyesores or a danger and health issue to the community. This funding will allow for this unique building to once again house teaching, education and recreational opportunities for Harrisburg’s young people. The creation of the JEDI Innovation Center is an opportunity to enrich the lives of our residents and make our city a better place to call home.”
Following support from Kim, Gov. Tom Wolf signed off on the project Friday morning by using funds through the Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program.
The revitalization of the former Bishop McDevitt campus is part of the work being done by The Bridge, which bills itself as an eco village where inner city residents can work, eat, live, learn and play. Once complete, the mixed-use site will offer housing, retail, urban agriculture, education and entertainment options. The Bridge’s executive team is led by its CEO and founder, Garry Gilliam Jr., 31, a Harrisburg native who graduated from the Milton Hershey School and played football at Penn State University before embarking on an NFL career.
The $4 million in funding will support a project to undertake a complete renovation (including demolition, HVAC/mechanical, electrical, plumbing and fire protection) of the first floor of the former Bishop McDevitt High School for The JEDI Innovation Center. The JEDI (justice, equality, diversity, and inclusion) Center will contain flexible spaces and facilities for educational programs and events. It will contain a community concert/lecture hall, library, co-working space, rooftop garden, community kitchen, fresh foods cafe and a full-service medical clinic.
Bishop McDevitt occupied 2200 Market Street in Harrisburg for more than 80 years. Groundbreaking at 2200 Market Street took place in 1929 and the school was completed and dedicated on October 20, 1930. McDevitt relocated out of Harrisburg, opening its new campus in Lower Paxton Township in January 2012.