Our Sister City, St. Poelten, Austria

THE CITY:

St Poelten, Austria is the capital and largest city in the state of Lower Austria, with 59,000 inhabitants occupying an area of 41.8 square miles, located approximately 40 miles west of Vienna, Austria. It is recognized as one of the oldest cities in the country of Austria, having been established as a City in 1159. The City is a critical location for the country’s railway network, connecting Vienna with other major cities in Austria. It is a stop for almost all long-haul and regional trains, making it a key transit point for passenger and freight traffic, and it is located on the new high-speed train line.

THE SISTER CITY PROGRAM:

The Sister City Program with St. Poelten, Austria began as a concerted effort in 2000 by then-Mayor Tom Martin who had ties to that area, and because both cities have a rich railroad history and are similar in size. The program spawned intense and productive relationships between Penn State Altoona and the University of Applied Sciences over the past 25 years, with students from both countries travelling to visit the schools in each City. This is a valuable cultural and educational exchange for students which has forged friendships that continue to this day.

RECENT EVENTS:

In 2025, a new committee was formed by Mayor Matt Pacifico and Legislative Aide Bonnie DeLozier, along with representatives from local businesses, non-profit organizations, Penn State staff and personnel from Altoona Area High School, Bishop Guilfoyle Academy and Hollidaysburg Area High School. Through their efforts and the generous donations of local companies and citizens, the City of Altoona hosted a group of 25 students and five delegates from St. Poelten, for a week at the end of March, 2026. The students attended school, staying with host families and learning about American culture. They visited Horseshoe Curve, Baker Mansion, the Mishler Theater, Railroaders Memorial Museum and Penn State University Park. A 25th anniversary dinner was graciously provided by Penn State Altoona, for students, host families and delegates.

HOW CAN YOU BE A PART OF THIS INITIATIVE:

No City dollars are used for this program. All activities, transportation and other costs are possible only through donations from the public. You can help this valuable program continue for our area students by donating online at https://centralpagives.org/give-now/, choosing Sister City Funds for your gift, or by sending a gift to Sister City Finds, c/o CPCF, 1616 E. Pleasant Valley Blvd, Altoona, PA 16602.

THANK YOU!!!!