News & Announcements

State College Borough Bird of the Year 2026: American Robin 🐦

The State College Bird Town PA Committee is proud to announce the American Robin as the very first State College Bird of the Year! A true local favorite, robins are a familiar sight and sound throughout the Borough of State College. You may spot one singing at dawn and dusk, foraging in your yards and gardens, nesting on porches and shrubs, and sometimes gathering in impressive flocks.

A symbol of spring and renewal, the robin holds a special place in many people's memories. Throughout 2026, the Borough of State College and State College Bird Town PA will be holding robin related contests to help the community learn more about this important bird and enjoy some time in nature.

Learn more about the American Robin.

Making of Community: Living Black History in State College

Step into a space of stories, wisdom, and legacy to hear from the Black elders of State College as they share their journeys of growing up, working, and being part of this community.

Through their stories, honor the people who shaped the town, opened doors, and made space for future generations. Come listen, reflect, and celebrate their experiences, and connect across generations.

Join the Borough of State College in remembering the past, appreciating the present, and carrying forward the lessons learned.

📅 Wednesday, February 11

⏰ 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

📍 Fraser Street Commons (115 South Fraser Street)

Light refreshments will be provided. ➡️ Register here.

Gimme Shelter — Annual Benefit Concert

Mark your calendars for this year’s Gimme Shelter benefit concert! With a pay-what-you-wish admission, attendees can expect a night of live music and delicious food while supporting housing security in Centre County.

📆 Thursday, February 5

🕰️ 6–9 p.m.

📍South Hills School of Business & Technology, 480 Waupelani Drive, State College

The event benefits Centre SAFE, Out of the Cold Centre County, Youth Service Bureau, Housing Transitions, State College Community Land Trust. Entertainment for the evening will include The Nittany Knights Barbershop Chorus, Biscuit Jam, Eric Ian Farmer, and Jason O.

Tickets are limited, so secure yours today HERE. Not able to make it to the event, but would like to donate to the cause? Donations can be made through the same website HERE.

This event is sponsored by: Kish Bank, South Hills School of Business & Technology, State College Borough.

Begin Your New Career with the State College Police Department!

Upcoming Testing Dates

Thursday, April 16, at IUP starting at 10 a.m. in the Robertshaw building, room 7A
Sunday, April 19, at the State College Municipal Building, starting at 11 a.m. in the Community Room
Tuesday, April 21, at the State College Municipal Building, starting at 6 p.m. in the Community Room

Those interested in testing with the State College Police Department should apply to register for a testing date. While applying, interested candidates will need to select their preferred testing date, along with paying a $30 testing fee. Registration for this testing cycle will close on Thursday, April 2. Contact a recruiter for more information at policerecruiting@statecollegepa.us.

UPDATE: Upcoming Travel Restrictions on South Gill Street Between Hill Alley and West Hamilton Avenue

From Monday, February 2, through Saturday, February 7, Sargent Electric will be occupying South Gill Street between Hill Alley and West Hamilton Avenue for work replacing a utility pole. Work will take place between 7:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. and will cause one travel lane to be closed. Motorists and pedestrians are advised to use caution when traveling near work areas. Questions about this project may go directly to Sargent Electric by calling 412-228-8876.

💌 Hearts and Heroes: A Valentine Event

Join the State College Police Department for a family-friendly valentine event. Kids can make valentines, meet police officers, explore a patrol car, and learn simple safety tips — all while having fun.

➡️ Saturday, February 7, from noon to 3 p.m. at the State College Municipal Building

This event is free and open to all ages!

Upcoming Travel Restrictions on South Gill Street Between North Hamilton Avenue and Hill Alley

From Monday, February 2, through Saturday, February 7, Sargent Electric will be occupying South Gill Street between North Hamilton Avenue and Hill Alley for work replacing a utility pole. Work will take place between 7:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. and will cause one travel lane to be closed. Motorists and pedestrians are advised to use caution when traveling near work areas. Questions about this project may go directly to Sargent Electric by calling 412-228-8876.

Upcoming Travel Restrictions on Lehman Way Between Holmes Street and McKee Street

From Monday, February 2, through Saturday, February 7, Sargent Electric will be occupying Lehman Way between Holmes Street and McKee Street for work replacing a utility pole. Work will take place between 7:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. and will cause the entire street to be closed. Motorists and pedestrians are advised to use caution when traveling near work areas. Questions about this project may go directly to Sargent Electric by calling 412-228-8876.

ABC Vacancies - Apply Today!

Authorities, Boards, and Commissions (ABCs) play a valuable role in making a difference in the State College Community.

CURRENT VACANCIES:⁠

Board of Health — (1 opening)⁠ must be a Borough resident
Community Oversight Board (COB) — (2 openings)⁠
LGBTQ Advisory Commission — (2 openings: 1 position for the Penn State Commission on LGBTQ Equity Representative and 1 position for any PSU Student undergraduate or graduate who has an interest in advancing/advocating for the LGBTQ+ community)⁠
Racial Equity Advisory Commission — (1 opening) — Must be a representative of Hispanic LatinX Community⁠
University Area Joint Authority (UAJA) – (1 opening) – Must be a Borough Resident

→ Apply to serve on an ABC here.