Local business leaders and public officials made the announcement. When the news broke — I went ballistic. Sure. I heard some rumors. No way. But I remained optimistic. BASS PRO SHOPS is coming to Williamsport. Gene — are you serious?
“Securing this partnership with BASS PRO SHOPS is a testament to the unwavering commitment between our state and local officials, the Chamber of Commerce, and FamVest,” PA Senator Gene Yaw said in a presser. “BASS PRO has a deep history of protecting habitat and introducing families to the great outdoors. There is no better place for them to put down roots than in Lycoming County — the gateway to the Pennsylvania Wilds. This new retail location will undoubtedly strengthen the local economy and be a driving force for additional tourism and recreation in our region. I was pleased to help secure investment for the project, and I am looking forward to seeing it come to life.”
BASS PRO is a major player. They will break ground at the former Best Buy site. This is the first big-time tenant brought in by FamVest Partners. This store will strengthen the future development of The District at Lycoming Valley. The new retail hub is expected to open in January 2027 and employ an estimated 150 people. BASS PRO will announce more details soon. This is great stuff, sports fans.
“This is the realization of two years of planning and coordination with our local leaders to showcase Lycoming County as the perfect setting for a premier outdoor retailer like BASS PRO SHOPS,” said Jon Jahanshahi, president of FamVest Partners, according to the release. “It represents not just a store, but a catalyst for renewed energy, economy growth, and regional pride.”
Major props to Jon and his team. My man has been very instrumental in bringing many new franchises and businesses to our region. He is the brains behind the new Texas Roadhouse, Wawa, and Chick-fil-A. Jon and his wife Val are outstanding and brilliant people. Well done.
“This is exciting news,” State Rep. Joe Hamm relayed. “This didn’t start yesterday. We’ve been working hard. This is the first of many. More announcements are to come. I want to thank BASS PRO for choosing to locate here. They are a world-class retailer- a perfect fit for our community. Congratulations to everyone involved.”
“The arrival of BASS PRO at the former Lycoming Mall site marks a significant step forward for economic development in our area,” State Rep. Jamie Flick explained. “Thanks to the strategic funding made through Act 13 dollars — non-taxpayer monies — this project is a strong investment in our future. It will not only breathe new life into a vacant property, but it will also bring jobs, revenues, and energy to Lycoming County and the surrounding communities. I look forward to the positive effects this project will create for many years to come.”
“We know what type of community we have,” President and CEO of the Williamsport-Lycoming Chamber said. “I echo the optimism. This will help create new opportunities, and existing businesses will grow. We have a great area. This is a perfect fit.”
Outstanding. Bravo to those involved. This is a huge win. A tip of my BASS PRO trucker cap to all of those involved. I am super stoked. Many others are, too. This is a fine opportunity for our region. I do want to thank the folks I mentioned this week. I sent personal notes to them, and all four of them got back to me. Exciting news. I am smiling with pride. Well done guys. Cheers.
