Economic Development Initiatives
We have identified the following opportunities that we believe are critical to our success:
Allegheny Gateway Project and River Front We believe that with a wider vision that includes the development of the historic resources in the West End Mills Property and Tanner Street of Ridgway, and more organized support and planning, this project can be a strong asset in the long run for Ridgway and Ridgway Township.
"White Elephant" redevelopment projects, specifically with the Bogert Hotel and the Masonic Temple being renovated. We believe that these are critical to downtown redevelopment to present great opportunities, and have been well worth saving.
Lodging Problems and Opportunities. Visitors won't shop or dine in Ridgway if they aren't able to find lodging. It is exciting to see the growth and development of the new Elker Suites and Inn, Air BnB’s, 1865 Bella Mansion B & B as well as the outdoor camping.
Streetscape Improvements
We must continue our efforts to beautify the downtown. The façade program had been facilitated by the Heritage Council Design Committee and Borough of Ridgway. We are hoping to bring back some funding to assist the shop owners, and landlords with some new designs to their buildings and storefronts. Finally, we plan to continue our outstanding floral and landscaping plans for the downtown Main Street.
Welcome Center
The centralized, visible location of the Welcome Center and Chamber of Commerce on the corner of Main and US Route 219 has been a great catalyst with economic development. The information and services being referred to all visitors, new home owners, and businesses has been the successful resources needed to develop the Ridgway area.
Venues for Entertainment and Fine Dining
This is an important component for successful downtown redevelopment. To attract visitors and retirees, we must provide a variety of entertainment and dining experiences. This area also includes special events planning and support, such as the Chain Saw Rendezvous, in order to provide a steady stream of events that attract visitors and provide entertainment. We need to partner with our local arts organizations in this area. The Bicentennial year long celebration should capture some new forms of events and attractions to the local residents and tourists.
Hospitality Training
This pertains to providing education to businesses and their employees on how to take advantage of growing tourism opportunities, and reap the financial rewards when you understand the tourism marketplace.
Further Development of Recreational Infrastructure
We have an excellent base of recreational infrastructure in and near Ridgway (canoeing, the rail- trail, cross county ski trails, ANF trails, etc.). We need to examine how to further develop, integrate and market our recreational assets.
Downtown Redevelopment Education
Ridgway is already receiving public recognition at the regional and state level for our accomplishments to date. We believe that in the future, we can provide leadership to other municipalities inside and outside of our immediate region, and further leverage our success by offering educational workshops on how to conquer downtown redevelopment in a small town. The better our overall region does, the better Ridgway will do. We would like to have Ridgway be a known as a regional powerhouse for downtown redevelopment.
