ACJ Cuts Ribbon on New Fitness Center for Employees
Published on October 29, 2026
Pod 1B at the Allegheny County Jail has completed its transformation from a place to house incarcerated individuals into a full-fledged fitness center open to all who work at the jail.
On Oct. 27, several Allegheny County dignitaries joined ACJ staff at a ribbon-cutting ceremony celebrating the official grand opening of the Allegheny County Jail Fitness Center.
Allegheny County Executive Sarah Innamorato was on hand to help christen the center and took time to give credit to those who led the charge to create a space that offers the amenities of a commercial gym – and more.
Innamorato said she was impressed with the work done by all involved with the transformation, especially members of jail’s Corrections Association for Relaxation, Entertainment and Support (CARES) committee that spearheaded the project.
“This is such a major improvement,” Innamorato said. “I hope this is a place for people to reset mentally and build stronger bonds and relationships with other people who work here.”
Unit Manager and CARES President Jamie Brickley thanked all ACJ staff members who contributed to the project.
Members of CARES organized fundraisers and collected donations to fund the new center. Staff members spent money on those fundraisers, donated cash and equipment, gave their time moving equipment into the center, and took part in a contest selecting a logo for the center.
Proceeds from the Second Annual ACJ Golf Outing, organized by Unit Manager Mat Olean, were also donated to fitness center upgrades.
“This fitness center is more than just a place to work out,” Olean said. “It’s an investment in our people, our morale and our ability to build a stronger team.”
Unit Manager and CARES member Eugene Judge said the group has organized several different projects and events in the attempt to improve the environment for ACJ employees and said the creation of the fitness center is the “biggest thing yet.”
“It’s been amazing, and I can honestly say I am happy to be a part of it,” said Judge. “We still have people reaching out to donate.”
In addition to the usual gym equipment, such as free weights, cardio machines and strength machines, the fitness center also offers a walking track and pickleball court.
The pickleball court, located in the pod gym, has been a huge success.
“We have a long line of people waiting to play,” said Judge.
Before cutting the ribbon Innamorato offered words of thanks to the CARES committee.
“You guys did all of the heavy lifting … pun intended,” she said. “Thank you so much for making not only your lives better, but also the lives of your peers.”
Media inquiries may be directed to Jesse Geleynse, Public Information Officer for the Allegheny County Jail
jesse.geleynse@alleghenycounty.us or by phone at 412-350-1267 or 412-760-4790 (cell).