Tri County News

State Representative Lauren McNally announced a grant of $265,100 from the Department of Development Brownfield Remediation Program for the Mahoning County Land Reutilization Corporation. The funding is intended for the cleanup and redevelopment of a site at 1034 Wick Ave, which is near Stambaugh Auditorium in Youngstown.

Rep. McNally emphasized the importance of redeveloping sites close to community attractions: “Safely redeveloping a site so close to Stambaugh Auditorium and areas of our community that attract patrons and guests is really important for our long-term goals in the Mahoning Valley,” she stated. She also expressed gratitude towards local partners who pursued state funding opportunities.

The Brownfield Remediation Program provides grants to clean up brownfield sites by removing hazardous substances or petroleum from industrial, commercial, or institutional properties. The specific project funded by this award involves clearing universal and hazardous waste, such as asbestos, from an old auto parts store that has been vacant for years. The structure on the property is significantly deteriorated with collapsed ceilings and rusted materials. Planned remediation activities include asbestos abatement, building demolition, and site restoration using clover ground cover. This initiative is expected to create six new jobs.

This announcement marks the sixth round of funding under this program, which allocated $29 million to thirty-six projects across twenty-three counties. Funding comes from the Ohio General Assembly's current operating budget through the Building Demolition and Site Revitalization Program.