Knowledge Park Redevelopment

The Knowledge Park Redevelopment project revitalized the historic 200-year-old Schmidt & Ault Paper Co., transforming the site into a dynamic business and innovation hub. This redevelopment created modern fit-out spaces for local businesses and fostered a unique blend of classroom-based education with real-world learning experiences. The project benefits both York College students and faculty by enhancing the educational environment and offering a range of Project-Based Learning opportunities. These opportunities span disciplines such as engineering, computer science, and liberal arts, all across three floors.

The Knowledge Park Redevelopment has made a significant impact on the local community. The 40-acre property now connects York College with the surrounding area, providing new spaces for commercial tenants and strengthening the bond between the campus and the community. This innovative hub cultivates an entrepreneurial ecosystem that will benefit the region for years to come.

The building’s architectural design honors its industrial roots while blending modernity with heritage. A sleek new glass storefront and facade modernize the front of the building, creating an inviting and contemporary entrance for the hub. Construction on the Knowledge Park Redevelopment began in May 2022 and finished in November 2024, marking a major milestone in transforming Knowledge Park into a cutting-edge educational and business center.

Actors Housing, Addition, & Renovations

This project transformed the entire city block to be used by this iconic Lancaster theatre. Built in 1852 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, after nearly four years of planning, the project was completed in phases to allow performances to continue as scheduled throughout construction. Phase 1 was primarily composed of backstage renovations, including the replacement of century-old sandbag rigging that required the temporary removal of the roof for the new mechanical equipment. Phase 2 was the most visible change, and included a two-and-a-half-story glass-walled venue space and a new multipurpose theater with a rehearsal hall.

Market Revitalization & Upgrades

Lancaster Central Market has been the heart of downtown Lancaster for nearly two centuries. As early as 1730, a market has been located on this site. While the exterior appearance of the market did not change significantly, this historic renovation project updated the building’s systems to improve overall efficiency. This included updating the lighting, sprinkler, and heating systems. An elevator and public viewing area at the mezzanine level now gives visitors an aerial view of the market.