The first YMCA building in Chester County will soon become Coatesville’s newest restaurant and brewery, Steel City Brewing, writes Bill Rettew for The Daily Local News. 

The new establishment is one of several newcomers to Coatesville’s Historic District and is part of Coatesville’s transformation into “the next foodie scene in Chester County,” said City Manager James Logan. 

The former YMCA space is currently under construction. It features beautiful brick walls and Lukens Steel beams, as well as a two-story atrium. 

“A vibrant downtown community starts with restaurants,” said Mark Milanese, the owner of the incoming restaurant and brewery. 

Milanese owns Milanese Remodeling along with his brother Mike and hopes that this repurposing of the YMCA building, which was built in 1893, will spur revitalization in Coatesville. 

Milanese plans on working with the National Iron and Steel Heritage Museum to fill the walls of Steel City Brewing with photos and items celebrating the more than two-century-long history of steelmaking in Coatesville. 

“While drinking a beer and having a nice meal, our hope is to also educate our guests about the importance of the steel industry to our county and our civilization,” he said. 

Read more about Steel City Brewery in The Daily Local News.