JOHNSTOWN, PA – The Johnstown Redevelopment Authority has announced that the Center for Metal Arts has leased property at 106 Iron Street for their school. Currently, the school resides in the Florida, New York. Their intent is to not only use the former Carpenter Shop at 106 Iron Street but to move into the former Blacksmith shop as well. The school plans to offer educational programs open to the public, as well as specialized training for professional blacksmiths. It will also do commissioned work, and sponsor residencies. Over time previous equipment will be refurbished and used, including the shop’s five steam hammers

‘From the Village of Florida, New York, to Iron Street in Johnstown, this has been an exciting, and fast, adventure. Since the day their equipment arrived in January, to the first classes this month, the fire here is hot and the students will travel from various locations from inside and outside of our Commonwealth. This is a true turning point not just for the Redevelopment Authority, but also, and most importantly, for our community. Many individuals played a part in making this happen and support the mission of JRA and I am very appreciative of that effort’ stated Melissa Komar, executive director of the Authority. More information about the Center for Metal Arts can be found at www.centerformetalarts.com.