A ribbon cutting took place in Somerset County Thursday morning as a childcare center showed off renovations.

The Learning Lamp has been undergoing renovations for the last two years for its Childcare Works for Somerset campaign.

The building, located at 451 Aberdeen Drive in Somerset, now has nearly double the capacity it previous had.

Natalie Hinton, director of the Learning Lamp, said they are the only STAR 4 center in Somerset County, meaning they have met the highest quality child care standards through staff education, learning environment, leadership and management as well as family and community partnerships.

Hinton said, "Childcare is necessary for parents to be able to work, and having a safe place to send their children is so important to parents and the community. So, we wanted to make this the safest and cleanest place possible where they can come, and we can help the kids and teach them how to reach their full potential."

PA Partnerships for Children reports that of the 2,324 children under age 5 in Somerset County whose parents require outside care, there are only enough slots for half.

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