Albatwitch Returns Home, Borough Business Moves Forward, and Community Celebrates Columbia’s 300th Year
Week Ending September 27, 2026
COLUMBIA, PA — It was another busy week in Columbia as residents celebrated local traditions, borough officials tackled important community issues, and hundreds gathered downtown for one of the area’s most unique festivals.
Albatwitch Festival Returns to Columbia
The biggest story of the weekend was the Albatwitch Festival to Columbia. The annual celebration of the legendary creature said to roam the Chickies Rock area drew visitors from across the region despite periods of rain throughout the day. Festival founder Rick Fisher held the event on Sunday in Columbia. The event featured vendors, entertainment, local history, and plenty of discussions about the mysterious, apple-stealing creature of local legend.
Columbia Celebrates 300 Years
The Albatwitch festivities were part of a broader weekend of events recognizing Columbia’s 300th anniversary. Although rainy weather disrupted portions of the celebration, community members still turned out to support local businesses, attractions, and entertainment throughout the borough.
Borough Manager Announces Resignation
One of the week’s most significant governmental developments came when Columbia Borough Council formally acknowledged the resignation of Borough Manager Jack Brommer. His departure is expected to take effect in November, creating an important leadership transition as the borough continues working on several major projects.
Police Pension Nears Full Funding
Residents also received encouraging financial news as borough officials reported that Columbia’s police pension fund is now approximately 95 percent funded. Officials described the achievement as a major improvement compared to prior years and a positive indicator of the borough’s financial health.
New Planning Commission Appointments
Council approved the appointment of Colette Shaw and Todd Alshouse to positions on the Columbia Planning Commission. The board plays an important role in reviewing development proposals and helping guide future growth throughout the borough.
Columbia Crossing Improvements Pursued
Officials also continued efforts to secure funding for improvements at the Columbia Crossing River Trails Center. Council authorized the submission of a $250,000 Community Development Block Grant application to help support rehabilitation and maintenance projects at one of Columbia’s most visited destinations.
Looking Ahead
The coming weeks remain packed with activity as Columbia prepares for additional fall events, outdoor recreation programs, economic development discussions, and ongoing conversations about community growth and safety. Residents are also watching several redevelopment projects that could shape the future of the borough for years to come.
The Chronicle’s Take
If this week demonstrated anything, it’s that Columbia continues to balance its historic past with its future ambitions. From celebrating local folklore through the Albatwitch Festival to planning infrastructure improvements and economic development opportunities, community involvement remains strong. Rain may have dampened part of the weekend, but it certainly didn’t dampen Columbia’s spirit.
By Jesse Sweigart
The Columbia Chronicle
