Youngstown/Warren Regional Chamber Partners with City of Youngstown for Downtown Business Relief and Economic Development

July 19, 2024

Partnership coordinated distribution of $200,000 in relief funds and will lead a downtown strategic planning process

The Youngstown/Warren Regional Chamber is partnering with the City of Youngstown on the launch of the Downtown Recovery Committee—a public-private partnership to coordinate relief for downtown businesses impacted by the Realty Tower explosion and recent construction projects and spearhead a long-term strategic plan for the sustainable economic growth of the downtown area.

The Youngstown Warren Regional Chamber Foundation, the fundraising arm of the Valley’s largest economic development and business advocacy organization, will serve as the fiscal agent for business relief funds, which started with a $200,000 seed grant from the City of Youngstown. Initial grants were distributed to downtown businesses last week.

“This the beginning of a long-term partnership with the city and stakeholders to stimulate economic development in downtown Youngstown,” said Guy Coviello, Youngstown/Warren Regional Chamber president & CEO. “Our community has rallied together during this tough time, and it is critical that we continue to support these businesses. As they thrive, our downtown thrives.”

As part of its advocacy on behalf of the downtown area, the partnership will also collaborate on the recruitment of prospective businesses, retention and growth of current businesses and promotion of events to help bring patrons back downtown. It will also work on the development of a housing strategy to increase residential options downtown.

Both individuals and organizations can contribute to the downtown relief efforts via the Regional Chamber Foundation. All earmarked contributions will go directly towards the recovery of downtown.

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