Construction of a $6 million community center in Malvern will begin in the fall due to a successful “Building Connections” grassroots campaign by the nonprofit Great Valley Community Organization (GVCO).

“When a few families began GVCO in 2001, we had two goals: to build a more interconnected community, and to make a positive impact on our kids,” said Keith Walsh, Executive Director of GVCO. “We have been achieving this goal because of our dedicated and selfless volunteers.

“Since GVCO’s founding more than a decade ago, Great Valley’s population has more than doubled and has changed dramatically, both in terms of demographics and the growing demand for additional youth, adult, and senior programming.”

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The organization is planning to build Phase One, a 40,000-square-foot facility, on land that was secured from the Great Valley School District in 2015. The new site is centrally located in the school district on North Bacton Hill Road, adjacent to the current GVCO/GVBL location. The property is conveniently located near the proposed Swanenburg Park, the Chester Valley Trail, and the East Whiteland Township trail system, as proposed by the township’s comprehensive plan.

The new facility will include: court space, mezzanine level viewing, elevated walking track, fitness center, outdoor courts, café area, meeting rooms, multi-purpose classrooms, a performance stage, a large room for cheer/dance, dressing rooms, and more. Outdoor plans in Phase One include a generous parking area, open practice fields, amphitheater, outdoor picnic area, and convenient access to the Chester Valley Trail.

“GVCO is an asset that promotes regional growth and enhances the quality of life for all Great Valley residents,” said Jim Renehan of Renehan Building Group.

The new center will support the community by providing ample space where the entire family can come for fitness, recreation, and enrichment. Surrey Services for Seniors and Steps for Hope are just two of the new partnerships being formed to provide expanded community resources to area residents.

Click here to make a pledge to GVCO’s capital campaign or take a virtual tour of the new facility.