Pottsville, Schuylkill County, PA -
On Tuesday, the Schuylkill Chamber of Commerce, Schuylkill Economic Development Corporation (SEDCO), and local officials gathered to mark the grand opening of the new Onvo Service Plaza at Highridge Industrial Park.
This project has been 25 years in the making. A quarter-century ago, SEDCO and PennDOT reached an agreement to improve local infrastructure. At the time, PennDOT planned to replace two minimal rest stops in Pine Grove and Mahanoy City with fully equipped facilities. As Highridge Industrial Park was under development, SEDCO President Frank Zukas recognized the need for a second exit to spur further growth in the area.
Today, the industrial park is home to around 5,000 workers, and with the plaza now open, the vision set in motion 25 years ago is coming to fruition. Zukas’ efforts were praised by Robert Carl, President of the Schuylkill Chamber of Commerce, who acknowledged his role in both the industrial park’s development and the creation of the service plaza.
“SEDCO has been instrumental in bringing 50 Fortune 500 companies to Schuylkill County,” Carl said, noting the significance of their economic impact.
The grand opening drew a large crowd, including employees and managers from nearby facilities. The new Onvo plaza is expected to generate about 75 jobs, with a variety of amenities available to travelers and locals. The plaza houses Onvo’s first "Food on the Fly" program, a made-to-order menu that includes their signature Craverito burrito, along with bowls, quesadillas, and a new line of handcrafted coffee, espresso, and lattes. Additionally, a full-service Burger King is located on-site.
Strategically located just off the Highridge Park Road ramp, the service plaza is a much-needed addition along the busy Interstate 81 corridor.
Construction is also underway next to the plaza on a new Townplace by Marriott hotel, which will offer 111 rooms once completed, according to plans filed with Cass Township.
The grand opening ceremony featured a creative twist: a burrito-cutting ceremony, symbolizing the launch of the fresh, made-to-order menu. Several notable speakers participated, including Schuylkill Chamber President Bob Carl, PADCO President Savas Logothetides, SEDCO President Frank Zukas, Schuylkill County Commissioners Barron Hetherington and Gary Hess, and Onvo’s Chief Operating Officer Jeff Byard. Representatives from state and federal elected officials also attended.
The Gordon AMVETS played a ceremonial role, assisting with the flag-raising and leading the Pledge of Allegiance. As part of the festivities, Onvo made a $2,500 donation to both the Gordon AMVETS and Cass Township.
