Dennis Davin, secretary of the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED), and local officials recently took a walking tour of downtown Bedford, in Bedford County, to highlight the beautification of the business district made through DCED’s Keystone Communities program’s façade grants.
Leading the tour was Tonya McClucas Grimes, manager of Downtown Bedford Inc., an organization that promotes the revitalization of the downtown area. It included stops at three small businesses and the Southern Alleghenies Museum of Art, which have each received funds through the grant program. Officials also visited Olde Bedford Brewing Co., a small brewery that plans a move to a new facility as it expands.
Since Downtown Bedford’s formation, the DCED has provided more than $405,000 to help businesses and property owners complete improvements. The organization has partnered with DCED, local governments, the local visitors bureau, the chamber of commerce, and the economic development association.
“Downtown Bedford’s revitalization efforts made a tremendous impact on the economic development and maintenance of the buildings, which adds to the charm and character of our main street,” Grimes said. “We find these types of grants to be a catalyst, stimulating private dollars as well. We look forward to continuing our relationship with the commonwealth as we move toward strategic economic growth for years to come.”
Davin said revitalizing downtown districts is a priority for the Wolf Administration partly because of its ability to attract businesses that create jobs. “Downtown Bedford is an excellent example of how revitalization efforts can lift an entire community, and we’re excited to see more improvements in the years ahead,” Davin added.