Our communities have put the word Success in so many of this years projects. We have seen new businesses, new buildings, demolishing of blighted buildings, updating existing buildings and creating new ventures for locals and tourists. Some have been in the plans for years, yet others were just proposed in 2010 and done in 2010. Small communities can do it, in a timely manner, and with an outstanding community spirit and coordination. There is a spiritual connection that many Americans feel toward small-town America and the rural landscape, given our country’s agrarian roots.
Recently in Pennlines there was an article about a planned trail connecting two Kinzua country recreation sites. Taking form in early January 2010, inspired by the Allegheny National Forest, Bradford District and given life in the first project by the Pennsylvania Kinzua Pathways (PKP), it is now open. As of mid-October, the 1.3 mile Rimrock Trail now connects Kinzua Beach with Rimrock Overlook. It was the result of a combined effort of Pennsylvania Kinzua Pathways, the Allegheny National Forest (ANF), students from Warren County Career Center, and signage at the trailhead crafted by the Retired Senior Volunteer Program Toy Shoppe woodworkers. PKP member, Ines Nelson accounts for the success of the project. “This trail is a testament to the ANF and our community coming together for a common goal. We are proud of the proactive approach everyone took towards the project and of the partnership developed with the Warren County Career Center. What a great opportunity for these students of WCCC to leave a legacy by contributing to the design of the trail and construction of the information kiosk and benches to be installed next spring.” According to PKP, a “tree house” and a handicapped accessible observation deck are scheduled for installation in 2012.
Another successful year for the City of Warren and Warren County with the Blighted Properties Project has helped to clean up seven properties. Dan Glotz, Department Head of Planning and Zoning for Warren County, tells how the properties were evaluated. “The Blighted Property Review Committee had 12 properties submitted for removal, four were resolved and removed in 2010.” City of Warren Building Code Officer, Alan Gustafson, said, “Three houses were raised this year. We encourage owners of blighted property to remove the house, saving the City the cost. We are looking into reconstruction as an alternative to raising properties in 2011.” The most notable property removal in 2010 was the Cozy Corners building on the corner of Pennsylvania Avenue and Market Street, historically the Lyric Hotel.
Financially successful matching moneys for business improvements were available in 2010 from the Regional Main Street Program and many businesses benefited from the funding. Kathy Reitinger, Director, highlights the many businesses that received funding for building and facelifts. “Tidioute Area Health and Dental Center, with a Pharmacy was assisted with engineering funds and recently held it‘s grand opening. The Candlelight Inn, also in Tidioute, is almost complete with their façade improvements. Sheffield’s Main Street Artisans have a new sign, and the Depot has a new front roof with façade assistance. Also completed was a new sign for Hebner’s Salon in Sugar Grove with additional façade upgrades. Youngsville saw facelifts for the apartment building at West Main and East Main Streets, and Bower’s Sporting Goods.’ Many communities saw new buildings constructed for businesses: Youngsville’s NAPA, Sugar Grove’s Car Wash, Russell’s Medical Complex, and a new park for downtown Sugar Grove.
A project that will change the face of Warren and the surrounding areas is still on track according to Allegheny Musarium Board member Nancy Mooney. “Our anticipated goal of 2012, due to the national economic restraints, does now seem a little too optimistic, however, on all other areas of the project, we are on schedule.”
The challenge facing small towns may be how to retain and attract residents more than how to manage an influx of new ones. Many committees have been formed in response to increasing community concerns about the need for new ways to grow that boost the economy, protect the environment, and enhance community vitality. The committees partner with environmental groups, historic preservation organizations, professional organizations, developers, real estate interests, along with local and state government
entities. Support is all they need.
Building on the Success of 2010 are in the works already with plans for the next streetscape improvements in Warren and Youngsville, completion of facades for the Sugar Grove Borough building, Sheffield Allegheny Apartments and the completion of the new Youngsville Borough building.